Exploring the Enchanting Ronda Valley

Ronda's Charms Unveiled

Today was a day of wandering and wonder in Ronda, a city that continues to surprise me with its blend of natural beauty and historical depth. From breathtaking viewpoints to hidden cave shrines, every corner turned revealed a new facet of this enchanting place. I'm excited to share the highlights of our day, which was filled with exploration, delicious food, and a touch of local charm.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Casa Clemente. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Spanish fare were exactly what we needed to fuel our morning adventures. I opted for the *tostada con tomate* and Hans, ever the traditionalist, chose the *churros con chocolate*. Sipping my coffee and watching the town slowly wake up was the perfect start to a busy day of sightseeing.

First on our list was the Mirador de María Auxiliadora. The views from this vantage point were simply stunning. The rolling hills of the Ronda Valley stretched out before us, dotted with olive groves and vineyards. It was a perfect spot for taking photos, and I must have snapped at least a hundred! The fresh air and the panoramic vista were invigorating, setting a positive tone for the rest of our day. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel. We spent a good hour here, just soaking it all in and chatting about how lucky we were to be in such a beautiful place. Maria Auxiliadora seems to be a popular name, as I noticed online that there are many references to this name.


Experience the stunning scenery of Ronda, Málaga at the Mirador de María Auxiliadora, a must-see observation deck for breathtaking views.

The beauty of Ronda lies not just in its dramatic landscapes but in the hidden stories whispered from its ancient stones.

Next, we ventured to the Cave Shrine of the Virgen de la Cabeza. This hidden gem was a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the effort. The shrine, carved into the rock face, exuded a sense of peace and history. I learned that it dates back to the 9th or 10th century, a time when Christians were permitted to worship outside the city walls during the Moorish rule. The architecture was fascinating, with several rooms dedicated to worship and others that once housed the monks who lived there. The highlight was the baroque chapel, a later addition, adorned with beautiful paintings. The whole place felt like a step back in time, a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. Apparently, urban legend says that the location of the church, the Puente Nuevo bridge, and a local manor form an equilateral triangle used for witchcraft, which I found fascinating.


Explore the serene beauty of the Cave Shrine of the Virgen de la Cabeza, a spiritual haven surrounded by breathtaking landscapes in Ronda, Spain.
After our spiritual interlude, it was time for lunch. We headed to Puerta Grande, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Spanish cuisine and charming ambiance. We shared a table outside, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the pedestrian street. The *gazpacho*, served in a bowl made of ice, was a refreshing treat, and the *rabo de toro* (oxtail stew) was rich and flavorful. Hans enjoyed some local wine, while I savored a *cerveza*. The service was friendly and attentive, making our lunch a truly enjoyable experience. I read online that the waiters here are known for being humorous and friendly, which I can attest to. I also read that the restaurant has a view of the Moorish Puerta de Almocabar gate.


Experience authentic Spanish flavors at Puerta Grande in Ronda - where Mediterranean cuisine meets tradition.
With our bellies full, we made our way to El Tajo de Ronda, the iconic gorge that defines the city. I had seen countless photos of this natural wonder, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer scale and drama of it in person. The views from the edge were breathtaking, the sheer cliffs dropping hundreds of feet to the river below. The Puente Nuevo, the bridge spanning the gorge, was an engineering marvel, blending seamlessly with the landscape. We walked along the various viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the gorge and the surrounding countryside. The wind was strong, adding to the sense of drama and adventure. It was truly a humbling experience, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. I learned that the gorge was even featured in the movie Wonder Woman.


Discover the stunning El Tajo de Ronda, where breathtaking views, rich history, and nature meet in perfect harmony.
Our final stop of the day was La Tienda de Trinidad, a charming local shop that came highly recommended. I was on the lookout for some authentic Spanish souvenirs, and this place did not disappoint. The shop was filled with local products, from Iberian ham and Payoyo goat cheese to local wines and craft beers. The owner was incredibly friendly, offering us samples and sharing stories about the region. I ended up buying some cheese, a bottle of local wine, and a few small trinkets for friends and family back home. It was the perfect way to end our day, supporting local businesses and bringing a piece of Ronda back with us. I read online that the owner is very friendly and close to the products.


Experience the authentic taste of Ronda at La Tienda de Trinidad, a charming cured ham bar and wine cellar perfect for food lovers.
For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante Las Castañuelas. This restaurant had been mentioned by a local as a place where the locals eat. It was a bit outside the main tourist area, but well worth the walk. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, family atmosphere. We ordered a selection of tapas to share, including *boquerones fritos* (fried anchovies), *pimientos con ventresca* (peppers with tuna belly), and *secreto ibérico con patatas* (Iberian pork with potatoes). Every dish was delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel like part of the family. It was the perfect way to end our day in Ronda, savoring authentic Spanish cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming setting. I saw online that the restaurant is known for its lovely decor.


Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurante Las Castañuelas in Ronda - a culinary gem celebrating Spanish cuisine.
As we walked back to our hotel, the Hermanos Macías, I reflected on the day's adventures. Ronda had once again captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, our last day in the Ronda Valley. We plan to visit Ronda View, Puerta Del Viento, and Mirador de Ronda, soaking in the last moments of this enchanting place before heading back to Berlin. And of course, we'll be sure to enjoy one last delicious meal at Tabanco Los Arcos before we leave. It's bittersweet, but I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime.


Discover the charm of Ronda at Hermanos Macías Hotel, where affordability meets comfort in the heart of the city with easy access to local attractions.
I noticed online that there are some music events in Ronda, but unfortunately, none that we could attend. There is also the Ronda Romántica event coming up at the end of the month, which sounds interesting. I'm also glad we didn't forget any of our trip essentials, as listed in our itinerary. I'm a little sad that I forgot my Spanish phrasebook, but we've managed to get by.

Tomorrow is our last day, and I'm already feeling a little sad. It's been such a wonderful trip, and I'm not ready for it to end. But I know that all good things must come to an end, and I'm grateful for the time we've had here. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm sure it will be just as magical as today.

Until tomorrow,
Jessica