Cuenca Gardens: history, facts and how to visit

A terraced viewpoint over the Tajo gorge that locals know better than visitors do.

History and what to see

The Cuenca Gardens are one of those corners that almost never appear on the usual tourist routes, despite offering some of the most spectacular views of the whole Tajo gorge. They're laid out over several terraces stepping down the hillside, with trimmed hedges, fountains and flowerbeds, from where you can see the New Bridge from an angle quite different to the usual one — the one locals tend to photograph, not tourists.

The name honours the city of Cuenca, twinned with Ronda for sharing a similar landscape: both cities sit atop deep gorges carved out by a river. It's a quiet spot, ideal for sitting down and resting a while during a walk along the rim of the Tajo, away from the bustle of the better-known spots.

Interesting facts

• It's one of the locals' own favourite spots, but it goes largely unnoticed by visitors.
• From its terraces you can see the Tajo and the New Bridge from an angle different to the typical photos.
• The name comes from the city of Cuenca, with which Ronda shares a similar landscape: both are built atop a gorge carved out by a river.
• It's laid out over several stepped terraces with hedges, fountains and flowerbeds.

Getting there and accessibility

Getting there: On the rim of the Tajo gorge, near the New Bridge and the Alameda del Tajo. On foot, right in the centre. From these gardens you get a unique view of the New Bridge, the Old Bridge, the Convent of Santo Domingo and the Aldehuela Viewpoint.

Accessibility: Partially accessible (terraces with steps)

Opening hours, prices and access conditions change over time: check the official sources for each place before you go.

Take Cuenca Gardens with you

Descubre Ronda is a free app with monuments, trails, festivals, where to eat and shop, and audio guide in 6 languages. No sign-up and no intrusive ads.

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What to see nearby

• Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)

  Ronda's iconic landmark: 98 metres above the Tajo gorge.

• Alameda del Tajo

  19th-century tree-lined promenade with panoramic views over the Serranía.

• Bullring (Royal Cavalry of Ronda)

  One of the oldest and most monumental bullrings in Spain.

See also the full list of what to see in Ronda and a walking route through Ronda in one day.