Street Reviews – Drinking in public @ Ronda, Spain

Wine DJ — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 22:00:56 +0000

Just a short distance away from Malaga you will find one of the most beautiful pueblos blancos (white towns) in Andalucia. Ronda sits dramatically atop an isolated ridge in the sierras. The old and new sections of town are split in half by the El Tajo gorge, formed by the Guadalevin river. The towns most famous landmark, the 18th century Nuevo Bridge joins the two. Here on top of the 130 meter plus bridge is where I found a fan enjoying a bottle of local wine from Malaga.

I am not quite sure if it is legal to drink in public places in Spain. In fact I was told by one person it was illegal, as he walked down the street drinking a coctail. At the time of my visit there was a bike race coming through town which seemed to be occupying the police force. This being the case I joined our fan for a drink on his perch on the bridge (folks, don't try this at home). After crossing the bridge in to old town, you can tour the Casa del Rey Moro, the palace of Moorish ruler Badis who reportedly drank his wine from the skulls of the victims he beheaded.

[caption id="attachment_617" align="aligncenter" width="350" caption="El Tajo gorge and Badis' palace on the right, from New Bridge."][/caption] Ronda's second major monument is the Plaza del Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. Legend has it the modern style of bullfighting (on foot rather than horseback) was born here when Francisco Romero jumped in the ring to distract a bull from attacking a fallen rider. A statue honoring Romero is found in the Alameda del Tajo. Spectators can enjoy several types of wine in the arena, including several of the excellent red wines from the local Cortijo de Monjas, that are sold under the label Principe Alfonso. You will also find the label represented at Super Marquez, carrera Espinel no. 13, and Jamoneria Berrocal no. 112. [caption id="attachment_551" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Spains oldest bullring, Ronda Spain"][/caption] The steady stream of day-trippers to Ronda means there are plenty of great cafes with great local and regional wines to be enjoyed. The best places for food are centered around the Plaza del Socorro, but the best views are in restaurants near the bridge. Ronda is definately worth the visit to enjoy the fine wines and spectacular views! [caption id="attachment_554" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Plaza del Socorro"][/caption]

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Street Reviews – Drinking in public @ Ronda, Spain