Official UK partner to the Paradors, Pousadas, Pestana Hotels & Resorts,
Teritoria, and European Hotels Collection. Keytours International,
formerly Keytel International, your agent in the UK.
Stunningly situated hotel with panoramic views (4*)
The Parador de Ronda was built on the site of the former town hall of this ancient Andalusian hill-top town, which was occupied by the Romans and then by the Moors, before being retaken by Catholic Spanish forces in 1485. Ronda's Parador is spectacularly located on the rim of the 120m-deep El Tajo canyon that splits the town in two, and is next to the Puente Nuevo (‘new bridge’, in fact built in 1793, but newer than the Roman and Moorish bridges). Ernest Hemingway lived in Ronda for a time and in 'For Whom the Bell Tolls', his classic novel about the Spanish Civil War, some Nationalist sympathizers are thrown over the cliffs of the very gorge that the Parador overlooks. But these thankfully are more peaceful times, and guests at the Parador de Ronda may enjoy the views of El Tajo in an atmosphere of tranquillity and comfort, whether from the hotel itself, or from its gardens and swimming pool. The Parador de Ronda's spacious public rooms are brightly decorated with an abundance of artworks and prints, and many of the cheerful bedrooms have wonderful views, particularly the superior rooms. Guests may sample a range of Andalusian dishes in the Parador's restaurant, and in summer months can cool off in the hotel's seasonal outdoor pool.
Keytours tips:
The combination of traditional Andalusian architecture, striking natural surroundings and sunny climate throughout the year gives a great advantage to Ronda’s’ tourism and agriculture. This picturesque, whitewashed town situated in the Málaga region of southern Spain dates back to the Neolithic period; archaeological remains of this time can still be seen in its historic quarter and the town’s layout resembles that of the medieval era. One of the most significant periods in Ronda’s history took place in 1485 when it was conquered by Los Reyes Catolicos (Catholic Monarchs) transforming the city by opening squares and broadening its streets. Later, in the 18th century, significant buildings were constructed such as the New Bridge and the Plaza de Toros (bullring) designed by Martin de Aldehuela in 1779, giving Ronda a romantic quality and higher importance within Andalucía and Spain. Perhaps Ronda’s most symbolic features are its 3 bridges that join each side of the town across the 120 metre deep ravine. The oldest of the three was built in the 14th century, named the “Arab bridge”, the “Old Bridge” comprises a single arch just 10 metres long and the largest “New Bridge” is perhaps the most impressive, stretching 120 metres across El Tajo gorge.
Tradition and culture are both heavily celebrated in Andalusia, for visitors wanting a taste of a traditional Spanish fiesta, they should visit Ronda during the first week of September. The town joins together to enjoy bullfights, dress up in 18th century costumes and watch horse drawn carriage processions amid the cobbled streets. The Fiestas de Pedro Romero stem from 1954 when Antonio Ordoñez, a local bullfighting enthusiast, chose to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Pedro Romero, a legendary bullfighter from Ronda. Today the national fiesta is organised by Francisco Rivera Ordoñez, the grandson of Antonio Ordoñez.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Restaurant opening times:
Breakfast: 8.00 to 11.00 (You can book for either 8:00, 8:45, 9:30 or 10:15)
Lunch: 13.00 to 16.00
Dinner: 20.00 to 22.00 in winter and from 20.30 to 22.30 in summer. It may be possible to arrive up to 30 minutes before closing and still enjoy a meal.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.00 to midnight.
The Parador is located in the historical centre of Ronda, alongside the famous Tagus, next to the Puente Nuevo and the bullring. Ronda is located 118 km. from Málaga, the capital of the province.
This Parador has a garage which has a daily charge, payable locally. There are also metered parking spaces alongside the Parador and bullring nearby.
