

Grazalema: A High-Mountain Village in a Natural Park Village of Grazalema in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park The city has a huge underground parking lot called Parking Martinez Astein that is well marked and quite reasonably priced.ģ. Other events include the festivities and religious processions during Semana Santa (Holy Week) around Easter. The Feria de Pedro Romero festival in September features a parade of women dressed in Goyesque (18th-century Spanish) costumes and a traditional Goyesque bullfight.Īt the end of August and in early September, the Ronda International Folk Gala delights audiences with folk dance performed by groups from over 50 countries. For a delightful afternoon meal, settle into a table on the Plaza del Socorro and gaze up at the stunning façade of Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Socorro.ĭuring spring and summer, Ronda comes to life with its festivals.
HIDDEN LEAF VILLAGE FULL
The city has several pedestrian-only streets full of restaurants and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Another interesting historical narrative is the story of the town's bandits, illustrated at the Museo del Bandolero (Bandit Museum). The ancient Arab Baths in the Barrio de San Miguel are further proof of the Islamic influence.

In the old town ( La Ciudad), the narrow, labyrinthine streets and whitewashed buildings reveal a rich Moorish inheritance. White buildings lining the ravine in Ronda | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Ernest Hemingway immortalized the appeal of Ronda and its bullfighting tradition in several of his novels, the most famous being Death in the Afternoon. The town's Plaza de Toros is Spain's second oldest bullring. About 85 kilometers from Arcos de la Frontera, the town straddles the El Tajo Gorge, with the emblematic Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) crossing the jaw-dropping 150-meter-deep ravine.īesides its spectacular setting, Ronda is famous for bullfighting. Perilously clinging to a sheer cliff, Ronda stands at a dizzying height and offers thrilling views of the dramatic landscape. Dramatic Scenery, Moorish Charm, and Festivals in Ronda Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) in Ronda | Photo Copyright: Lana Law The hotel has a sumptuous interior adorned with wood-beamed ceilings and classic decor, an outdoor terrace that affords awe-inspiring views, and an elegant restaurant that serves local specialties.įree parking for Arcos de la Frontera is located at the base of the hill in a dirt lot just before the pedestrian overpass.Īccommodation: Where to Stay in Arcos de la FronteraĢ. This luxury hotel is housed in a splendid historic building (formerly the local magistrate's house) overlooking the Guadalete River. Grab a shady table and settle in for a rest you may need it because the walk from the parking area to the old town is all uphill!Īrcos de la Frontera is also known for its lively Easter festival, as well as its delicious regional cuisine.įor a pampering hotel experience, travelers should stay at the Parador de Arcos de la Frontera. Located through the old town are hidden squares with cute restaurants serving up fine local fare. You can easily walk from the fortress to this church, and numerous restaurants can be found between the two.Īt the center of town on the Calle Deán Espinosa, the Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción, built in the 14th century on the site of a Moorish mosque, blends a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Plateresque Renaissance, Mudéjar, and even 17th-century Baroque details. The 14th-century Iglesia de San Pedro is another eye-catching building, standing dramatically above a steep cliffside.

Arcos de la Frontera | Photo Copyright: Lana Law The castle dates back to the 11th century, but was later rebuilt after the Christian Reconquest. Simple whitewashed houses line the streets, and a Moorish fortress sits on the hilltop. Perched on a hillside at the edge of a cliff above the Río Guadalete, Arcos de la Frontera is a National Historic Monument. The gateway to the Route of the Pueblos Blancos, this beautiful hilltop village is the perfect place for a stroll through the old streets or a lunch stop at an outdoor patio. Arcos de la Frontera: Gateway to the Pueblos Blancos Arcos de la Frontera | Photo Copyright: Lana Law
