Sierra of Ronda: history & beauty

Ronda, Málaga, in the autonomous region of Andalucía in southern Spain is an amazing city with a lot of history. In a previous blog, Ronda, the Jewel of the White Villages, I described this amazing city and some of what it has to offer. If you're planning to visit for more than a couple days, though, there are many interesting sights and towns nearby!

Hiking near Ronda

Take the train north of Ronda, a fifteen minute ride, and you are in Setenil de las Bodegas, a beautiful village with houses constructed under natural rock ledges and even built into the caves. Built long before air conditioning was common, these dwellings benefit from natural climate control. The summer temperatures in Andalucía can be lethal and these homes provided relief from the blistering heat.

Areal view of Setenil de las Bodegas

Some of the dwellings have been turned into shops over the years. This image shows a winding street that ducks under the stone overhang.

Setenil street

If you're an avid cyclist, bring your bicycle on the train with you and you're in for a treat. Returning to Ronda on bicycle offers some beautiful countryside panoramas. The hills are large and steep, though. You've been warned! About half way to Ronda, there is a steep decline through the town of Arriate. The main road through town seems to drop off a cliff, as you approach. It wouldn't be a bad idea to check your bike's brakes before attempting to ride down. Go slow and be prepared to stop, as bicycles can be hard to spot and there are cross-streets and alleyways with moped-drivers to worry about.

View from the top of the hill in Arriate

Also within an hour's bicycle ride (15 minute drive) from Ronda is the archaeological site of Acinipo, also known as "Old Ronda." Acinipo was the Roman money mint for the region and the archaeologists have found many minted coins and blanks ready to be minted. Most of the structures have been reduced to piles of Roman bricks, but the amphitheater is still largely intact. The visiting hours are limited, but a dedicated photographer, willing to take a little risk, can find a way in at sunset to get an amazing photo or two. The large door in the center of the amphitheater wall is westward facing!

Amphitheater at Acinipo

Remains of structures dot the slope.

Be prepared to be greeted by loose farm animals, if you decide to take the risk outside normal operating hours. Local farmers are allowed to let their animals graze. The donkey, in particular, is very curious and will come to see you. This old lady wanted me to rub the side of her face and top of her nose!

Old Donkey

For those of you who enjoy hiking, there are many trails around the city and through the nearby mountains. The people in the tourism office are very knowledgeable. Ask them about these:
Tajo del Abbanico — Path that goes along a Roman-built road through some interesting geological formations

Sendero del Duende — A beautiful walk in the country near Ronda, with great views of the city and a good possibility to run into a shepherd and his flock

Cueva de la Pileta — A cave near Benaoján with prehistoric art

Thank you for checking out this post. If you enjoyed it, please upvote. Comments and re-steems are greatly appreciated!

Garganta del Capitán — Rock climbing, hiking, natural beauty...

El Camino del Rey — Hiking, climbing, and breathtaking views! It's best to go with a group and guide for safety reasons.