Where?

Ronda, Andalusia, Spain.

Why now?

Dramatically perched on the edge of the El Tajo canyon, Ronda is
an idyllic combination of antiquated charm and breathtaking
scenery. Rumoured to be the birthplace of bullfighting, the town
overflows with crumbling monuments, historical gardens, wild-river

swimming pools, ancient squares and Neolithic ruins. With a
series of Arabic baths and lush palaces to boot, it’s no wonder
that Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand made this ornate landscape
their home for a time. The area is also said to have been the
holiday spot of choice for creatives including Orson Welles, Ernest
Hemingway and George Eliot who came here seeking inspiration.
Today, June sees the region plays host to
UVA, a boutique music and arts
festival for a cosmopolitan in-the-know crowd.

When to go?

The archaic cityscape and flowery foothills are at their best in
late spring and early summer, when you’ll avoid both scorching heat
and autumn rain.

Who to take with you?

Someone who prefers to explore Herculean mountainous cityscapes
rather than busy streets and nightclubs.

Most likely to bump into?

Far from the lad/ette holidays of nearby Malaga, you’ll meet
chic Spanish locals sipping wine or taking a dip in a nearby river
pool.

Don’t miss

Ronda is known for the Puente Nuevo, an 18th-century bridge
between the old and new town boasting sweeping views of the gorge
below. Take a stroll into the valley via the Camino de los Molinos
to see the kaleidoscopic array of blossoming flowers and chestnut
trees. You also won’t want to miss the Plaza de Toros – though
culturally controversial, the bullring is thought to be one of the
oldest captivations this Andalusian tradition.

Essentials to bring with you

Sturdy shoes and a refillable water bottle – a camera goes
without saying.

How to get there

Fly into Malaga or Seville
then rent a car and enjoy the 90-mile
road trip through the Spanish countryside.