Southern Spain: Ronda and the white villages (long weekend)

Upon arrival in the charming Ronda, you’ll have time to explore this historic town. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the impressive Tajo Canyon, and soak in the atmosphere at one of the lively squares. End the day with a delicious dinner as you look forward to the cycling tour that begins tomorrow.

You begin your tour with a stunning route through the hills south of Ronda. The climb to Faraján offers impressive views, while the descent through the green landscape takes you to charming villages like Alpandeire and Juzcar. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to pause at a local café and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. The final kilometers take you through a spectacular moonlike landscape, followed by a long descent back to Ronda.

Today’s itinerary features a varied ride that mostly follows quiet country roads. You’ll descend into the valley of the Rio Guadiaro and climb through charming villages like Montejaque towards Grazalema. The longer route takes you through cork oak forests to the hilltop village of Grazalema, one of the most beautiful white villages. Both routes end at the picturesque Zahara reservoir, where you can explore the stunning village before spending the night here.

You start with a descent to the Zahara reservoir, followed by a gentle ride towards Algodonales, with its charming village square and inviting terraces. Along one of the oldest railway routes, now the Via Verde, you’ll cycle through tunnels and across viaducts surrounded by nature and impressive rock formations. The day ends in Setenil, where houses are carved into the rocks, and the unique atmosphere will enchant you.

This ride takes you through a stunning hilly landscape to a Roman theater and the charming white village of El Gastor. The route is a mix of challenging climbs and relaxing descents through picturesque valleys. Take your time to enjoy the views and discover the rustic charm of this region. At the end of the day, you’ll return to Ronda to unwind after this beautiful ride.

After breakfast, our tour comes to an end. Depending on your plans, you may still have time for a final stroll through Ronda.

• We offer this holiday in two different variants, so you can always choose the duration that suits you.
• You can find these two variants here:
  Southern Spain: Ronda and the white villages
  Southern Spain: Ronda and the white villages (long weekend)
• Would you prefer to add extra nights or shorten the trip slightly? You can always indicate this. We are happy to think along with you to put together the trip exactly as you want it.

• For this holiday, difficulty level 3 is based on the use of an e-bike. If a regular trekking bike is used, the difficulty level is 4 to 5.
• Difficulty level 3 for touring holidays are cycling holidays that are well manageable for the average touring cyclist. The rides are not too long but can include some elevation gain. The route may include longer sections of unpaved terrain (gravel), but is always well rideable. There may be 1 or 2 days where the ride is somewhat longer and more challenging. On average, distances are between 30 and 50 kilometres per day and between 200 and 400 metres of elevation gain per day.
• Difficulty level 4 for touring holidays are cycling holidays for the experienced and well-trained touring cyclist. The rides are longer and include significant elevation gain. There may be 1 or 2 days where the ride is more challenging. On average, distances are between 50 and 70 kilometres per day and between 600 and 1000 metres of elevation gain per day.

• Ronda is located at a high altitude and therefore has a cooler and slightly wetter climate than many other parts of Andalusia.
  • Ideal months: March to June and September and October.
  • Less suitable: July and August; the high temperatures make cycling less comfortable. In winter it is often too cold and wet.
• Here you can find exactly when it is most pleasant to cycle: Climate Andalusia
• For a broader overview, you can also take a look at our general climate page: Climate Spain

• You can reach Ronda from Málaga city centre and Málaga Airport. This can be done by train, bus or private transfer.
• The return journey from Ronda to Málaga works in the same way and with the same travel times.
  • From Málaga city centre, you travel by train to Ronda in approximately 2.45 hours (two transfers – first metro, then train). The bus takes approximately 3 to 4 hours (two transfers). Prefer speed and comfort? With a private transfer, you will be in Ronda in approximately 1.45 hours and this can be arranged through us.
  • From Málaga Airport, you reach Ronda by train in approximately 3 hours (two transfers – first metro, then train). By bus, the journey takes approximately 2.50 to 3.50 hours with one transfer. A private transfer is also possible; this will take you to Ronda in approximately 1.45 hours and can be arranged through us.
• For current metro and train times, please visit:
  Renfe (metro) and Renfe (train)
• For current bus times, please visit:
  Alsa