Ronda is a picturesque town in Spain's Andalusia region, known for its dramatic setting atop a deep gorge and its rich history. Perched on the edge of the El Tajo Gorge, Ronda is divided into two parts: the old Moorish town (La Ciudad) and the more modern Mercadillo quarter, connected by the iconic Puente Nuevo (New Bridge). This 18th-century bridge spans the 120-meter-deep gorge, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Guadalevín River below.
Ronda has a long and diverse history, with origins dating back to the Celts, followed by Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences. The town is famous for its well-preserved Moorish architecture, such as the Arab baths and the 13th-century Mondragón Palace, which now houses the Municipal Museum. The Palacio de Mondragón is particularly notable for its Mudejar-style interiors and beautiful gardens.
Ronda is also considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting, and its Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest and most prestigious bullrings in Spain. Built in 1785, the bullring is still used for events today and includes a museum dedicated to the history of bullfighting.
In addition to its impressive historic cities, the region of Andalusia in southern Spain is also known for its Pueblos Blancos (White Villages), a picturesque series of quaint towns and villages dotted across the countryside and characterized by whitewashed buildings offering an outstanding natural beauty. From the dramatic clifftop views of Ronda to the Moorish influences in Zahara de la Sierra, and the lush green landscapes of Grazalema, each stop of our private day trip offers a unique insight into Andalusia's cultural heritage.
On your private day trip, you will:
On this full-day trip to the charming white villages, you will soak in the spectacular scenery of the Sevillian countryside. Your private driver-guide will pick you up from your accommodation in central Seville and embark upon a comprehensive itinerary of rural gems.
Once you leave behind the hustle and bustle of Seville, we will head towards the mountains and our first stop, an Almazara (olive oil mill). You will learn about traditional methods of elaboration and extraction of Spanish olive oil, one of the country’s most important exports. Your visit will include a tasting so you can try one of the best Extra Virgin Olive Oils in the region.
The next stop will be the first white village of the day: Zahara de la Sierra. From its privileged position on a hilltop, you can enjoy wonderful views of the reservoir below as well as the greenery of Sierra de Grazalema National Park. You will have the chance to wander the narrow streets of the village replete with the whitewashed buildings you have heard so much about and see the ruins of a Moorish castle.
As you move further into the national park, you will see some of the autochthonous flora and fauna, such as Spanish Fir trees and Payoya goats. This species is unique to the area and famously produces Payoyo Cheese, a much-loved Andalusian delicacy. Nestled in the heart of the national park, you will find your next destination: the eponymous town of Grazalema. This quintessential white village dates back to Roman times and is known for its tranquillity and superb cuisine derived from top-notch produce sourced in the surrounding area. You will once again have time to explore the town on your own and enjoy the mountain views. Should you wish to stop for lunch, (not included), your guide will happily give recommendations for where to try delectable local dishes.
Following another pleasant jaunt through scenic forests and mountains, the final stop of the day is Ronda. Perhaps the most famous and impressive of all the pueblos blancos, the town is dominated by the awe-inspiring El Tajo gorge. This natural wonder quite literally cuts the town in two, with both parts connected by the iconic Puente Nuevo Bridge. As you make your way to Ronda, your guide will provide you with an overview of Ronda’s rich culture and history so you can decide which of its main monuments to explore independently once you arrive. There are many options to choose from including the medieval Baños Árabes (Arabic bathhouses) and the oldest Plaza de Toros (bull ring) in all of Spain.
After you take in the sites of Ronda, your driver-guide will take you back to Seville feeling refreshed by the country air and bucolic surroundings. You will be dropped off at your hotel or another central location of your preference in Seville with a deeper appreciation for the exceptional beauty and cultural legacy of the white villages.
Embarking on an excursion from Seville to Malaga and Ronda is a fantastic addition to your Andalusian experience, offering a captivating mix of natural beauty, history and culture as well as a healthy dose of sea air. Ronda is one of Spain’s most dramatic and picturesque towns, perched on a high plateau and split by the stunning El Tajo Gorge, while Malaga is one of Europe’s oldest cities, with a wealth of impressive monuments, a lively atmosphere and a magnificent coastal setting overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Spending the day accompanied by a private driver-guide allows for hassle-free travel and ensures an informative and personalized experience, helping you make the most of your time in both places
On this private day-trip, you will:
This full-day Andalusian adventure to two of the region’s most emblematic destinations promises a seamless blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, leaving you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. You will begin your day with a pick-up direct from your hotel in Seville. Once you get acquainted with your driver-guide, you can sit back and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle as you traverse the stunning Andalusian countryside, with rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque villages. Along the way, your knowledgeable local expert will share insights into the region’s rich history and traditions.
The first stop of the day will be the charming whitewashed town of Ronda, perched dramatically on a plateau split by the awe-inspiring El Tajo Gorge. Whilst the exact itinerary of your visit can vary according to what you are most interested in, you will be sure to stroll through the historic old town, discovering its Moorish and Spanish heritage. You will also spend time admiring the iconic Puente Nuevo Bridge, which spans the gorge and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Your guide can share other notable moments in Ronda’s history such as its contribution to bullfighting culture encapsulated in its famous Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings. You’ll enjoy a pause for lunch (at your own expense) to soak in the serene beauty of the countryside before continuing on your journey towards the coast.
Soon you will arrive in Málaga, the gateway to the Costa del Sol and a city steeped in history. You will set off on a guided tour of its lively Old Town, rich with cultural treasures. Your guide will provide a crash course in Malaga’s almost 3000-year history and adapt your route according to what you would most like to see. Key monuments include the impressive Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace with stunning views of the Mediterranean and the adjoining Gibralfaro Castle which offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval military past. You will likely pass by the distinctive Málaga Cathedral, known as “La Manquita,” for its incomplete second tower, and learn about Málaga’s connection to Pablo Picasso, who was born here and is honoured by the city’s Picasso Museum.
After your in-depth exploration of the marvels of Malaga, your guide will take you on a scenic route back to your hotel in Seville, where you can recharge and reflect on the incredible sights and stories you’ve encountered throughout the day.
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