The Jardines de Cuenca are terraced gardens set directly into the rock face of the El Tajo gorge between Puente Nuevo and Puente Viejo.

In my view, they are more interesting as a scenic walk than as a traditional garden – as you descend or ascend, the view of the rocks, bridges and houses standing on the opposite edge of the gorge is constantly changing.

The gardens are named after the Spanish city of Cuenca, with which Ronda formed a twinning partnership in 1975. The choice is no coincidence: both cities stand above deep rocky gorges.

View hotels in the centre of Ronda

Viewpoints and the best time to visit

From the upper terraces, you can see the eastern side of the Puente Nuevo and the deepest part of El Tajo.

As you descend, the bridge gradually disappears behind the rocks and views open up of the Casa del Rey Moro, Guadalevín and the Puente Viejo.

There isn’t just one main viewpoint where you can simply take a photo and leave. It’s worth walking through the whole of the gardens and stopping at several of the terraces.

The best time to photograph the Puente Nuevo is in the morning until early afternoon. The Jardines de Cuenca lie to the east of the bridge, so the sun is mostly behind you, illuminating the side of the bridge facing the gardens. Later in the afternoon, you’ll be photographing against the light.

From here, you won’t be able to see the whole bridge in its classic, monumental view overlooking the open valley. For photos like that, head to the viewpoints described under Puente Nuevo.

Which route should you take through the gardens?

The Jardines de Cuenca have two entrances:

• the upper entrance on Calle Escolleras, a few minutes’ walk from Puente Nuevo
• the lower entrance on Calle Real, near Puente Viejo

Coming from Puente Nuevo, the route is mostly downhill, making for a more comfortable walk.

However, I would choose the opposite direction and enter from Puente Viejo. As you make your way up, Puente Nuevo gradually comes into view ahead of you, and you’ll end your walk back in the city centre.

This route also makes sense after completing the Camino del Desfiladero, which ends near the Arab Baths.

Admission and opening hours

• Admission: free
• Time required for a visit: approx. 20–30 minutes
• Normal opening hours: daily 9.00–22.00
• Wheelchair access: no

There are quite a lot of steps between the individual terraces. It is not a particularly strenuous climb, but if you are pushing a pram or have limited mobility, the gardens are not a suitable route between the two bridges.

The gardens have lockable gates and are not accessible 24 hours a day. Evening and seasonal opening hours are subject to change.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Ronda.