Arriate
Casa Sonana is a ten minute walk from Arriate , a lively pueblo blanco ,itself just 5km from Ronda ,the famous inland mountaintop town overlooking the spectacular El Tajo gorge.
Like many Pueblos Arriate is steeped in tradition with many festivals, Fiestas and the famous Semana Santa procession at Easter.
Located down a short private track the Andalusian villa and pool only becomes visible having passed through the electric gates and driven past the villas olive trees.It is private and not overlooked.
Elevated on the valley side the villa faces west and affords uninterrupted views of the valley and the stunning sunsets.
Looking south there are towering mountains and looking north up the valley dramatic views of thousands of neatly laid out olive trees.
There is no light pollution at night and it is a stargazers dream sitting out and enjoying incredible panoramic views of the night sky.Did I mention amazing sunsets too?
Only fifteen minutes drive away is Setenil de las Bodegas , a well known pueblo built into surrounding cliffs well worth a short visit.
Ronda
The hilltop city of Ronda is only 5km away and rightly revered as a must see in Andalucia. A beautiful Arabic influenced city it has featured in quite a few films, notably Rosi’s 1984 version of “Carmen”.
The town is divided into two distinct parts, La Ciudad is the older and partly walled medieval medina. The northern part is El Mercadillo with wider streets and more building from the 18th century onwards.
Virtually every article about Ronda features the famous bridge, The Puente Nuevo ,dating from 1793 which affords vertigo inducing views over the limestone ravine it spans, called El Tajo.
It is a classic instagram site but be careful as there is a 120M drop!
It is written about in Hemingway’s book, “For whom the bell tolls” and played a part in the gruesome score settling during the Spanish Civil war.
Sunset from the bridge is always spectacular although if you are feeling adventurous there is a somewhat precarious path , El Camino de los Molinos to follow for that classic Bridge photographic opportunity featured in many guide books.
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Ronda’s Arab baths date back to the 11th century and are easily accessed from the town. They have been restored and have some beautiful architectural details the Moors bequeathed to Spain during their lengthy occupation.
Shopping is mainly focused on Espinel , a long street leading down to the famous Bullring. Named after a renowned polymath,Vicente Martinez Espinel. It is known locally as Calle la Bola.
The bullring , Plaza de Toros, is one of the oldest and most historically significant in Spain. The Romero family who displayed their skills in Ronda are widely regarded as the greatest bullfighters of all time.
A newer arrival is LA Organic Experience just outside Ronda , part owned by legendary French Design guru, Phillipe Starck . There are tours available around this interesting Olive press, grove and restaurant. Incredibly well designed and presented there is a wealth of information on how olives go from tree through pressing to the oil we all take for granted. The oil from here is sensational.
There also many fine Bodegas to visit all within a short drive away…Notable examples are Garcia Hidalgo and a real pioneering Bodega, Schatz.
Inland Andalucia to the Coast
Marbella/Malaga/Puerto Banus
There are too many malls to mention but La Canada is a good place to start. Massive supermarket, Apple store and Primark are just some of the names you would expect here.
The journey is an hour by car or try Malaga about an hour and a quarter ,especially the old town with its pretty streets and lovely squares.
Take some time to explore old Malaga as there is more to it than just the airport!
Of course there are many beaches at both locations to take your pick from , relax and watch the sun glinting off the mediterranean
Seville
If you prefer architectural beauty and sophistication then head to the capital of Andalucia, Seville.
Only about an hour and a half drive away to see La Giralda ,Plaza Espana and the older narrow streets containing hundreds of fantastic bars and restaurants , especially in the oldest areas of Seville.
The city reflects its moorish past in the fantastic architecture of Alcazar of Seville known for its incredible tiles. In fact the Moors ruled Andalucia from 711AD until the fall of Granada in 1492 and their influence was huge in shaping the foods eaten like apricots, dates and almonds as well as architecture, music and science.
Jerez
Smaller but no less impressive is Jerez , famed for its sherry and traditional equestrian skills.
There is no shortage of Sherry Bodegas to visit and if time permits a visit to see The Royal Horse show is worthwhile to admire the beautiful horses and their skilled riders.