Hotel Parador de Ronda

The Parador de Ronda stands as one of the most sought-after accommodations in Spain, offering guests an unforgettable experience in the heart of this dramatic mountain town.

What guests are saying

Guests consistently praise the Parador’s exceptional location next to the famous Puente Nuevo bridge and gorge, with many describing the views as breathtaking and highlighting easy access to Ronda’s main attractions. Multiple reviewers emphasize the friendly and helpful staff, with rooms described as spacious and comfortable.

One international traveler who has stayed at hotels worldwide called it “absolutely one of the best hotels we have stayed in,” noting that while it’s not a luxury resort, it offers something unique with its historical significance and spectacular setting.

Guests particularly appreciate the hotel’s position perched on the side of the gorge, with many rooms featuring huge terraces overlooking the hillside. The pool area receives special mention as a peaceful retreat from the busy town center.

Know before you go

Areas for improvement: What some guests note

Some reviewers point out occasional inconsistencies and soundproofing issues. A few guests feel the value could be improved due to high rates and extra fees, though the modern decor and amenities like the pool and breakfast are appreciated.

Several guests mention that rooms overlooking the bridge can experience noise from the constant stream of day tourists. Parking costs €20 per day, which some find steep, though it’s free for “Friends of the Parador” members.

Pricing information: What to expect

Recent searches show room rates typically starting around $136 per night, with prices varying by season and room type. The best deals are generally found during the off-season months of July and August.

The hotel offers 78 rooms in total, including standard doubles, superior doubles, a luxury suite, and eight unique split-level duplex rooms. Half-board and full-board meal plans are available, though drinks are not included in these rates.

Accommodation: Room types and facilities

Rooms are contemporary with polished wood floors, furnished balconies, and many offer beautiful views of the valley or the adjacent New Bridge.

Standard amenities include small flat-screen TVs, individually controlled air-conditioning, electronic safes, and minibars. Bathrooms feature cream-colored marble vanities, magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and quality toiletries, with shower/tub combinations as standard. The duplex units include whirlpool jets in their tubs.

The spectacular views

The Parador’s location immediately adjacent to the Tajo gorge and Ronda’s iconic Puente Nuevo is the primary reason this hotel is often fully booked, with only a handful of hotels on the edge of the gorge, and the Parador having the best vantage point.

The buildnig sits atop the spectacular 120-meter deep El Tajo gorge, offering breathtaking views of the Puente Nuevo bridge and the surrounding Andalusian countryside. The building offers views of the busy, picturesque Plaza de España on one side, and the dramatic gorge on the other, being adjacent to the 18th-century Puente Nuevo bridge.

The hotel features two stunning public terraces: the first, adjacent to the bar, offers a breathtaking view of Ronda’s iconic Puente Nuevo bridge, while the second terrace, located behind the dining area, boasts a panoramic view of the valley below—the perfect spot for a sunset drink.

The famous Puente Nuevo bridge

The bridge is literally steps from the hotel’s front door, allowing guests privileged access to this iconic landmark at any time of day—particularly magical at sunrise and sunset when most day-trippers have departed.

The Parador restaurant

Culinary excellence using local ingredients

The Parador chef takes great pride in crafting a menu that highlights local flavors, using fresh produce from the region, with seasonal specialties like chestnuts and mushrooms from the Genal Valley, or artisanal cheeses and meats from nearby Ronda. The restaurant also caters to gluten-free diets on request.

Signature dishes and menu highlights

Diners can enjoy perfectly cooked traditional dishes including jamon, tuna, and the house specialty—rabo de toro (stewed bull’s tail). Popular menu items include fried cheese, goat stew, and the partridge pâté, with many guests recommending the oxtail and local Ronda wines.

Guests particularly praise regional specialties like cold garlic soup with crushed almonds and grated hard-boiled egg, followed by roast baby kid. For dessert, the gelato, parfait, and fruitcake receive consistently positive reviews.

Reviews on service and atmosphere

While many diners praise the food quality and local specialties, some reviews mention that service can be inconsistent, with occasional reports of unfriendly staff and longer wait times. The restaurant setting is described by some as lacking character for such a prestigious historic building, with a few comparing it to a hotel buffet breakfast room.

However, the spectacular terrace views consistently impress diners, with many recommending having at least a pre-dinner drink on the terrace to take advantage of the magnificent vistas.

Breakfast Experience

Breakfast is served buffet-style and is included in most room rates. Guests frequently highlight the breakfast for its variety and quality, though some travelers note that for the price point, they’ve experienced better breakfast offerings.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Parador de Ronda worth It?

For travelers seeking an authentic Andalusian experience in an unbeatable location, the Parador de Ronda delivers memorable moments despite some operational inconsistencies. The dramatic setting perched above the El Tajo gorge, the proximity to the iconic Puente Nuevo, and the hotel’s historical character make it a bucket-list stay for many visitors to southern Spain.

How close is the Parador Hotel to the main attractions in Ronda?

The hotel is ideally situated for walking to Ronda’s main attractions, including the bullring, El Tajo gorge, churches, and museums—all within 30 minutes on foot. The famous bullfighting museum and Plaza de Toros are just a short stroll away.

How can I get to the hotel and what are the parking options?

For regional travel, Málaga Airport is 90 minutes away, Marbella 60 minutes, and Sevilla 90 minutes. Both bus and train stations are nearby, just a quick taxi ride from the hotel.

Underground parking is available beneath the building, with free parking for Friends of the Parador members. For non-members, parking costs €20 per day.