Ronda | Spain

We departed Palacio Pinello at 8:30am via taxi to the Santa Justa train station where we picked up a rental car. The drive through the Spanish countryside from Seville to Ronda is outstanding. 

Ronda itself is otherworldly; remarkable bridges, magnificent vistas, and steep cobblestone streets lead you around this dramatic mountaintop town.

This was the chilliest day with rain on and off. We were not experiencing the typical Spanish heat and sun on this trip that's for sure. Under gray skies we discovered all the viewpoints over El Tajo Gorge carved out by the Guadalevin River.

The latter part our afternoon lead us just down the road to Bodega Garcia Hidalgo. Tricia booked a wine tasting which turned out to be a super memorable experience.

A husband + wife team warmly welcome you to their family run winery which also happens to be their home. We took a little tour of the vineyard and wine cellars, and knew we'd be tasting wine of course! What we did not know is that they would have a white linen tablecloth tasting set for each group on their plant filled terrace, serving an exceptional spread of homemade food. 

We were presented with a just baked loaf of crusty bread accompanied by fresh jam, tangy relish, hand churned cream cheese + a luscious pate. Next, plates of local cheeses and cured meats. The tapas were flowing as much as the delicious wine and when she brought out her homemade Spanish tortilla - warm, fluffy and filled with soft potatoes, I nearly lost my mind it was so good!! 

If you find yourself in Ronda and you book a tasting at this winery (which you should!) come hungry! We loved the wine and took home a bottle of red each. 

 Ronda - nothing short of spectacular + a must visit: Bodega Garcia Hidalgo