Sevilla, Ronda and the Costa del Sol - A Road Trip in Southern Spain
- Tony
- 22 hours ago
- 10 min read
February 2026
Southern Spain is a short drive away for us living in the Algarve. I'm not sure why we don't spend more time here. Our list of places we want to travel continues to expand despite our busy travel schedule. Not surprisingly, the more that we explore Portugal and Spain,the more we want to do and see here.
When planning our road trip in southern Spain, we expected a mix of rain and sunshine; it's February, after all, but we were not prepared for the seemingly never-ending series of tropical depressions that have slammed the Iberian Peninsula. We have experienced back-to-back "named" storms (high-impact extratropical cyclone depressions) with a steady stream of heavy rain, wind, and flooding at home with Ingrid, Joseph, Kristin, Leonardo, and now Marta providing significant weather over the past few weeks. We are leaving home toward the end of storm Kristin, bracing for what Leonardo may bring during our travels.
Crossing the bridge over the Guadiana river which forms the border between Portugal and Spain.
Our first stop was an overnight in Sevilla, primarily to break up the amount of time behind the wheel, not a bad excuse to stop and enjoy this beautiful city. Light rain on the afternoon of our arrival didn't stop us from getting out and walking around the sites of Centro Sevilla. Apparently, everyone else didn't share our enthusiasm because the streets were unusually vacant. No crowds are a good thing. We met for Tapas with friends from Portimao who happened to be here at the same time.
Hotel Tayko was our base for the one night stay, a small boutique hotel centrally located near the Cathedral.
The next morning, a scheduled travel day to drive to Ronda, stopping at the historic "White Villages" of Zahara de la Sierra and Setenil de las Bodegas: recognizable by their stunning cliffside setting overlooking a lake, and for homes built directly into the massive rock formations.
We woke up to the next storm in the relentless series. Overnight, we heard strong winds and heavy rain outside the hotel, continuing into the morning. Apparently, the next named storm in the series, "Leonardo," was set to break the mold during our trip, as the Spanish authorities issued a RED alert for Ronda and the surrounding areas during our planned drive and for the next 24-48 hours. The alert projected heavy rains of 6-7 inches in 24 hours and severe flooding in the area, and requested travel in this area only if absolutely necessary. Of course, we took the risk assume we would turn back if it got too bad. We did make it safely to Ronda but experienced flooding, strong winds, heavy rain, a few mudslides, and downed trees on the road. Crews were out in anticipation of the storm, clearing what they could. We opted not to stop at the white villages along the way, as they were off the main road on small winding rural roads that were not worth risking.
Once in Ronda, the strong winds and heavy rain continued through the following day, with gusts up to 70 mph blowing the rain sideways and up the gorge walls at times. The hotel was surprised that we arrived with the alert in place, informing us that, at least for today, most monuments, shops, and restaurants would be closed.
Photos from around the center of Ronda
On arrival in Ronda, in the pouring rain and driving wind, we ventured out to explore the quaint streets around our hotel. Most of the businesses were closed due to the RED alert, but we managed to find Toro Tapas, a respite from the weather, and pretty good Tapas. We enjoyed Jamón Iberico, Ovos rotos (runny fried eggs over fried potatoes with Jamón Iberico), and a chicken Caesar salad.
The winds were so strong that you could see nearly all of the oranges were blown off this tree, and the Spanish flag was being blown upward as the winds whipped up the walls of the El Tajo gorge
The 18th-century Puente Nuevo joins the two sides of Ronda and is the iconic monument that makes Ronda a sought-after travel destination. The water roaring through the El Tajo gorge and under the famous bridge is a rare sight due to all the rain in the region.
Across the street from our hotel is the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, one of Spain's oldest bullrings, complete with an excellent small museum that follows the history of Bullfighting and displays many important and ornate period articles. There is also a world-class riding school and Library Archives.
Tapas at Tragata, the more affordable, informal cuisine of famous chef Benito Gómez, offers a menu of creative small plates. We enjoyed the Pastrami sandwich, the traditional Andalusian Squid sandwich, and Padron peppers.
A little sun mixed in with the rain today as we say goodbye to Ronda and head toward Marbella. Just outside Ronda, we stopped at LA Almazara, a signature olive oil mill, designed by Philippe Starck with beautiful grounds and views, a museum, restaurant, and Olive oil tasting.
Arriving in Marbella, located along Spain's Costa del Sol. The small city is divided into two sections: the old town and the beach/marina, although both are connected and walkable. We stayed in the Old center which was a good choice for this trip. Walking between the rain showers, the old center is a beautiful maze of narrow streets and festive small squares with many shops and restaurants in between the local residences
We stayed at the La Fonda Heritage Hotel in the old center. A fantastic find for our stay, centrally located in the old center and just a 15-minute walk to the marina and beach. Originally a 16th-century private residence, and a 1960s hotel for Aristocrats, then recently reopened in 2023 after extensive preservation and renovation from abandoned ruins.
We were drawn to the small church in the square where our hotel is located by the sound of the choir during mass.
The sun came out today! Still windy but well worth a walk to the marina and along the extensive promenade along the beach.
The restaurant at the Hotel was very good, so good that we had dinner there two of the nights in Marbella. Tonight was Confit Artichokes (They are in season in Spain and on every menu), Scallops, and Tagliatelle with Lobster. Later in the evening, we were treated to a performance by what we assume was one of the performers from the Flamenco theatre across the street. Singing of all things, the theme from The Godfather.
On the second night Squid with caramelized onions, Mary couldn't resist the Tagliatelle with Lobster again, and I had pressed Iberian suckling pig with roasted sweet potatoes
Tapas at Taberna El Bordón, a small traditional Taberna located in a small alley in the old center. Batatas Bravas, Shrimp Croquettes.
Another decent mixed weather day for a side trip to Malaga, about a 45-minute drive from Marbella. A much larger city and bigger crowds today as we explored the old center. We tried to see the Picasso museum, but it was sold out for the day. The newer port/marina area is modern, lined with shops and restaurants along its wide promenade. Glad that we chose to stay in Marbella as Malaga was a bit too crowded for us. Don't get me wrong, we loved what we experienced in Malaga, just not the crowds.
Lunch in Malaga at Bodega el Pimpi, a traditional, and very busy old school Spanish Tapas bar, Restaurant, and cafe. The food was good, not great, but the atmosphere and experience were fun.
It is Carnaval season. On our way to the car, we came across groups of people, mostly kids, preparing for what looked like a parade. Great costumes and excitement
On our last afternoon, we headed to nearby Estepona, about 30 minutes from Marbella. Another very cute, small beachfront village surrounded by large modern golf resorts, so a little more upscale but not pretentious. We loved our time here walking the promenade, through the well-manicured village, and will definitely come back for more.
Our final dinner at La Casa del Rey in Estepona. A casual restaurant with an extensive but well-prepared menu. It's also a Vinoteca, so the wine selection was excellent. Gratin Artichokes, Shrimps wrapped in thin pasta and fried.
We will definitely return to these areas, hopefully in better weather, to continue our exploration. A Road trip in Southern Spain is so close to us in the Algarve, the area begs for frequent return visits.
Outline of our Itinerary
Road Trip – Alvor-Seville-Ronda-Marbella-Malaga-Estepona Feb 3-9, 2026
Day 1: Drive to Sevilla (Stay 1 night) Arrival, tapas
Arrival and afternoon: Check in to the hotel and drop off bags. Take a walk to the city center.
Evening tapas crawl: explore the streets near the center.
El Librero Tapas Y Quesos: Serves traditional tapas and cheeses in a cozy atmosphere.
Las Teresas: Classic tapas bar in the Jewish Quarter (Barrio Santa Cruz).
Ovejas Negras (K&J)
Bodeguita Romero: Known for its pringa sandwiches.
La Brunilda – advance reservation needed (K&J)
Burger Food Porn (Tom) https://burgerfoodporn.com/
Top Restaurants in Seville:
Abantal: A highly-rated fine dining restaurant offering a tasting menu with creative dishes like duck ravioli and red tuna.
Restaurante Az-Zait: Known for its Mediterranean cuisine and dishes such as suckling pig and truffle, and foie gras terrine.
Ispal Restaurante: Offers a quality Spanish tasting menu and is recognized by the Michelin Guide for its excellent cuisine.
Where to stay:
✔Tayko Sevilla
Mercer Plaza Sevilla: A beautiful historic building converted into a 5-star hotel in the city center, noted for its excellent service and rooftop terrace.
El Rey Moro Hotel Boutique - Located in the heart of the picturesque Santa Cruz neighborhood in a renovated 16th-century manor house.
Day 2: Drive to Ronda (Stay 2 nights). Visit the white villages and Ronda's Ponte Nuevo
Morning departure to Ronda (approx. 2 hours, 37 minutes): towards the "white villages."
Visit Zahara de la Sierra (1 hour, 26 minutes): This village is recognizable by its stunning cliffside setting overlooking a lake.
Stop in Setenil de las Bodegas (41 minutes): Famous for its homes built directly into the massive rock formations. Grab a coffee or lunch at one of the cafés built into the rock.
Arrive in Ronda
Visit the Puente Nuevo and walk down the path into the gorge (El Tajo de Ronda) for a different perspective of the bridge.
Where to stay:
✔Catalonia Ronda Hotel
Where to Eat:
Tapas Bar Elias – Great for lunch
Restaurante Las Tablas
Restaurante Tropicana
Restaurante Casa María: Serves delicious and authentic cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting.
Tragatá Ronda: Tapas Bar, Discover the more affordably priced and informal cuisine of famous chef Benito Gómez, who showcases his culinary repertoire here through an array of small plates and tapas created using the finest ingredients.
Day 3: Explore Ronda, Bullring, Wineries
Explore the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, one of Spain's oldest bullrings.
Winery visit
Federico Schatz winery - AWS
La Melonera winery - AWS
Bodega Garcia Hildago winery
Bodega Descalzos Viejos – 16th century convent with fresco walls
Sunset: Head to a scenic viewpoint like Mirador de Aldehuela or Mirador de Ronda (la Sevillana) in Alameda Park to watch the sunset over the gorge.
Day 4: Drive from Ronda to Marbella (Stay 3 nights). Philippe Stark design Olive Oil Mill, Photo Op of Ronda Puente Nuevo, Explore Marbella
Morning departure to Marbella ( 1 hour, 12 minutes):
Olive oil stop at LA Almazara (approx. 7 minutes from Ronda): Visit the world's first signature olive oil mill, designed by Philippe Starck. Explore the grounds, the museum, and enjoy a tasting.
Mirador del viento: Observation deck: This viewpoint on the A-397 offers spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities of the mountainous landscape and the Puente Nuevo
Arrival in Marbella: Check in to your hotel and drop off your bags.
Afternoon: In Marbella, stroll through the charming Old Town, known for its beautiful white buildings and narrow streets. Visit Casco Antiguo and Plaza de los Naranjos
Where to eat: Enjoy dinner and drinks in the vibrant city center.
Restaurante Garum Marbella 4.7 Located on the seafront promenade, this spot has excellent views and offers a modern, creative Mediterranean menu with a great selection of healthy options.
Bar El Estrecho 4.4 Tapas Bar A long-standing, family-run staple in the Old Town, popular with locals for its authentic tapas experience and traditional Spanish atmosphere.
Restaurante Paellas y mas 4.4 As the name suggests, this is a great go-to place for authentic paellas and other traditional Spanish dishes in a relaxed setting.
La Fonda Recommendations:
Tapas:
Taberna El Bordón
Casa Curro
Bar Guerra
El Boquerón
Taberna la niña del pisto
Seafood:
Bar Altamirano
Los Tres Pepes
El Sombrero
Restaurants:
✔La Fonda Restaurant
Casa Eladio
Casanis Bistrot
Areia
Skina
KAVA
Messina
Where to stay:
✔La Fonda Heritage in Old Town Marbella
Day 5: Explore Marbella and Estepona
Morning in Marbella: a blend of luxury, history, and beautiful beaches.
Stroll the Promenade and Beaches
Walk along the Maritime Promenade, a palm-lined promenade connecting several beaches, including Fontanilla Beach and Venus Beach
Visit Puerto Banús Marina : See the luxurious yachts, high-end designer boutiques (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc.), and upscale restaurants in this glamorous marina .
Art and Culture : Explore the open-air Avenida del Mar, which features bronze sculptures by Salvador Dalí, or visit the Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engraving
Afternoon in Estepona (28 minutes):
Drive to Estepona on the A-7 along the coast. Walk along the scenic Paseo Marítimo promenade by the beach. You can also see the Estepona Orchid House, a large botanical garden under three glass domes.
Estepona: Art, Beaches, and a Botanical Garden
Estepona is a stunning town located approximately 30 minutes southwest of Marbella. It’s best known for its seafront promenade, which is lined with sculptures, murals, and palm trees. This makes it ideal for a slow wander or a quiet day by the beach.
The Orchidarium in the town centre often surprises visitors with its modern glass architecture and lush tropical plants, which contrast beautifully with the traditional Andalusian charm of the old town just a short walk away.
Where to eat:
Restaurante El Pescador.
✔Restaurants La Casa Del Rey
Restaurante Taberna Diaz
Restaurante Casa de mi Abuela
Restaurante Vuvo (Fine Dining)
Day 6: Day trip to Malaga: Málaga: Museums, Food, and Seafront Walks
Drive approx. one hour from Marbella, the city of Málaga has evolved from being a gateway city into a destination in its own right. It boasts a growing collection of art museums, including the Picasso Museum and Centre Pompidou.
The old town is packed with tapas bars and hidden plazas, while the recently developed port area offers a breezy promenade and modern shops. If you’re interested in history, you can also climb the Gibralfaro Castle and get some of the best views of the city and the coast.
visit the Alcazaba de Málaga, a Moorish fortress-palace, and the nearby Roman Theatre ruins. Afterward, head to the Picasso Museum.
Where to eat:
✔Bodega el Pimpi (traditional)
Cortijo del Pepe
La Risto Bodega (Italian)
Casa Lola
Gaucho Grill
Burger Food Porn in Malaga https://burgerfoodporn.com/
Beluga (Fine Dining)
Day 7: Drive home
Depart Marbella and stop in Seville (2 hours, 55 minutes)
Drive to Alvor, Portugal (2 hours, 35 minutes): After leaving Seville, continue your drive to Alvor.
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