Seniors Explore the “Cliffcity” of Ronda

In one of the many travel brochures I receive weekly I came across a travel destination for senior tourists, Ronda in southern Spain.  I have been to Spain and loved the southern coast but did not come close to Ronda.

I discovered it to be one neat spot with lots to see and do and the location is awesome as the link above shows. Kinda reminded me of my trip to Corsica and Bonifacio, a medieval citadel,  that lies up high on the coast of the Mediterranean.  This is why Ronda is classified  as a “Cliffside City.

Ronda, located about 100 kilometers (62 mi) west of the city of Málaga in Andalusia has a population of approximately 35,000 inhabitants. Wikipedia will explain best of all the many aspects of Ronda including a fascinating history. The main attractions include the three bridges that span the canyon.

The Puente Nuevo is the tallest of the bridges, towering 120 meters (390 ft) above the canyon floor, and all three serve as some of the city’s most impressive features. The term “nuevo” is a bit of a misnomer… the building of this bridge commenced in 1751 and took until 1793 to complete. Because of the high cliffs, Ronda was one of the last Moorish cities to fall during the Reconquest of Spain by the Catholic monarchs.

Seniors Like Lovely and Historic

TripAdvisor recommends 20 sites seniors will not want to miss that include the Puente Nuevo Bridge and El Tajo, considered the #1 site in Ronda. The Guadalquivir River runs through the city, dividing it in two and carving out the steep, 100 plus meters deep El Tajo canyon upon which the city perches.

I know from those who spent time there like Hemingway and Orson Welles that it had something special going for it.  Seniors travelers will find that Ronda (Suerte Natural) is a small town, easily navigable on foot. A “must” is a walk to the bottom of the gorge where you’ll get the best photo shots.

On a map of Spain I counted over six major roads that lead into Ronda. It’s said to be the fastest growing city in Spain and one of the loveliest and most historic towns in the country. It is famous worldwide for its dramatic escarpments and views and is also famous as the birthplace of modern bullfighting.

I found a useful Ronda City Guide that has it all together for senior visitors. It is also close to Marbella and you will not want to miss this city, one my wife and I found it to be pleasant and inviting… a great place to have a cold drink and just to watch people and the many boats that pass nearby. Enjoy your time in in a cliffside city.  jeb