The Ronda Valley

Look you.

For those who have never been, Ronda is an ancient Spanish town, high up on a plain in the mountains to the west of Malaga. Founded by the Romans, it swapped ownership many times over the centuries.

It is steeped in history and is probably best known for the bandits who lived in the hills nearby and robbed stagecoaches in very Robin Hood fashion. The bridge which spans the 100 m deep gorge was a handy place to bung off collaborators during the Spanish Civil War. It also has the oldest bullring in all Spain and the most famous matadors fought here regularly.

So Jac and I spent a very happy time, wandering around the narrow streets, visiting the odd museum and soaking up all the history.

It was very fine day, bright and hot in the sun, yet refreshingly cool in the shade. Such is the nature of Ronda, that there are both in abundance.

Our hotel, La Reine Victoria, was beautiful and the original hotel in the town. Recently refurbished, it is perched above the gorge with sheer drops from the terrace to the valley floor below. Our room was huge and very comfortable. The only down side was that the outside terrace music consisted of Cyndi Lauper's True Colours and played continuously for over three days on an endless loop! No one seemed to realise or care until we told Reception upon our departure.