Benalmadena – Costa del Sol

Benalmadena on the Costa del Sol

There are many reasons to visit Benalmadena, the beaches and world class Arabian styled marina being just two of them. Eating out is a pleasure, the pueblo a delight to see, and the parks and gardens a relaxing distraction. Benalmádena is about 1.5 hours drive from Ronda

Find a great hotel deal in Benalmadena over at booking.com

Amongst the best known attractions of Benalmadena is the marina with its village atmosphere, yachts berthed under sun soaked apartments, and the boulevard along which many of Benalmadena’s best restaurants and bars are located. There are plenty of cruise and watersport options over at Get Your Guide.

Either side of the marina are miles of golden sand beaches stretching to Torremolinos to the East, and Fuengirola to the west. The town is a popular summer holiday destination for Spaniards and foreigners alike, in fact Benalmadena is home to one of the greatest concentrations of foreigners who make up 35% of the city.

Historically the village traces it’s first inhabitants to neolithic people who fished along her shore, and made homes for themselves in sheltered parts of the hills above the coast. A visit to the Archelogical Museum will shed light on stone age cave paintings, Phoenician trading, Roman ruins, and the Islamic port town that existed until 1485.

What to do with the kids in Benalmadena?

For us, as a family with young kids, there are two places that we always visit when we are in the area. The “teleférico” or cablecar to the top of mount Calamorro and the always beautiful butterfly park.

Calamorra mountain by cable car

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Pileta Paleolithic Cave Paintings at Benaojan

A few kilometres from Ronda, just outside the white village of Benaojan lies one of the most spectacular cave systems in Spain, Pileta Paleolithic Cave Paintings at Benaojan and in the mouth of one, several galleries of cave paintings that are as old as 30,000 years, and were created by paleolithic people of Ronda before the last great ice age. Best of all, the caves are open to the public with a local tour guide to explain the significance of the artwork.

Book a hotel in Benaojan

How to book a visit to Pileta Paleolithic Cave Paintings at Benaojan

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History of Ronda’s Arab Baths

Arab baths in Ronda

Whilst in ruins now, the Arab Baths are still amongst some of the best preserved in Spain and offer a tantalising peek into Moorish life during the 13th to 16th centuries. Be sure to watch the animated short presentation (5 minutes) about the history of Ronda’s Arab Baths when you get here. The video presentation describes the water tower as a Noria (the modern Spanish word derived from Arabic), however the water pump in Ronda was a chain pump and is more correctly known today as a Saqiya.

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Lifting the lid on Tapas in Ronda

Lifting the lid on Tapas in Ronda - Spanish tapas translations to English
An Introduction to Tapas Culture

Tapas, a cornerstone of Spanish culinary tradition, are more than just small dishes; they embody the vibrant social culture of Spain. Originating from Andalusia, tapas are a symbol of hospitality and communal dining, inviting friends and family to share and savor various flavors in a relaxed setting. This article delves into the essence of tapas, uncovering their history, variety, and the cultural significance they hold in towns like Ronda.

Jamon Iberico on toasted bread
Lifting the lid on Tapas in Ronda. Jamón serrano or cured country ham on toast.

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A day trip to Jerez de la Frontera from Ronda

A day trip to Jerez de la Frontera from Ronda

If you’re looking to explore the stunning region of Andalusia, then a day trip from Ronda to Jerez de la Frontera should definitely be on your list. Located just an hour and a half away by car, Jerez is a charming city that is steeped in history and culture, with a rich legacy of sherry wine and flamenco dance.

With its beautiful architecture, bustling plazas, and fascinating museums, Jerez offers a unique and authentic Andalusian experience that is not to be missed. So why not hop in your car (Jerez is just 1:30 hours away from Ronda) and set out on a day trip to Jerez de la Frontera for a taste of the best of Andalusia?

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