Puente Viejo is a single-arch stone bridge spanning the River Guadalevín at the base of the El Tajo Gorge. It rises to a height of 31 metres above the river’s surface.

It isn’t as imposing as the Puente Nuevo, but I particularly liked its surroundings. The bridge lies amongst the rocks, ancient city walls and white houses. The whole place feels much more peaceful than the most visited part of Ronda.

In my view, the Puente Viejo is best experienced as part of a walking circuit through the gorge. You can see the bridge itself in a couple of minutes, but the walk down and the subsequent return to the historic centre are among the most beautiful walks in Ronda.

Is Puente Viejo the oldest bridge?

Despite its name, Puente Viejo is not the oldest bridge in the city. Further down stands the smaller Puente Árabe, also known as Puente de San Miguel or Puente Romano.

You’ll get the best view of it from Puente Viejo itself.

The origins of Puente Viejo are not entirely clear. Its current appearance is mainly the result of reconstruction following the flood of 1616.

And why is it called the Old Bridge? Before the completion of today’s Puente Nuevo, it was known as Puente Nuevo. It was only when the new and much larger bridge over the gorge was built that it became known as Puente Viejo.

Where is the best place to view the bridge?

From the Puente Viejo itself, you can look down into the river and at the rock faces, but of course you can’t take a photo of the bridge itself from there.

You’ll find the best views from two places:

• From the path leading towards Puente Árabe – the best overall view of the bridge from below. From Puente Viejo, continue downhill for a few minutes.
• From the Jardines de Cuenca – you’ll see the bridge from above, whilst also enjoying views of the houses built above the gorge.

Puente Viejo lies quite low down and is often in the shade in the mornings and evenings. If you want more light in the gorge itself, come around midday or in the early afternoon.

The most beautiful walking circuit

From Puente Nuevo, head down through the Jardines de Cuenca. The gardens descend gradually along terraces all the way to Puente Viejo.

Cross the bridge, pass through the Arco de Felipe V archway and make your way back up to the historic centre, passing the Casa del Rey Moro.

The street, which climbs steeply uphill to the old town, is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful walking routes right in Ronda. It was truly magical, especially in the morning when the valley was filled with mist!

Allow about 40 minutes for the whole circuit. If you carry on to the Arab Baths and the Puente Árabe, allow at least an hour.

The route involves lots of steps and a fairly steep climb. It is not suitable for pushchairs or people with reduced mobility.

Admission and opening hours

Crossing the Puente Viejo is free of charge and the bridge is open 24 hours a day.

It is usually lit up in the evening, but given its location at the bottom of the gorge, I wouldn’t put off visiting until after dark. It’s best enjoyed in daylight.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Ronda.