Ronda is not situated by the sea, but inland at an altitude of 760 metres.

The weather is therefore different from that in nearby Málaga or on the Costa del Sol. In summer, it is hot during the day and there is hardly any rain, but it cools down noticeably after sunset. Winters are considerably colder than on the coast, rainier, and temperatures can drop to around zero at night.

When planning your trip, I’d always check the forecast specifically for Ronda, not for Málaga.

You’ll really notice the difference of a few degrees in the mornings, evenings and at the open viewpoints above the gorge. The weather also determines whether it’s worth heading down to Puente Nuevo or walking through El Tajo and along the Camino del Desfiladero.

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Weather throughout the year at a glance

• Warmest months: July and August
• Driest period: June to September
• Most rainy days: November to January
• Coldest month: January
• Best weather for exploring the city: May, June, September and early October
• Snow: rare in the town, but more common in the surrounding mountains

Does it rain often in Ronda?

From June to early September, there is very little rain. In July and August, you generally don’t need to worry about rain at all when planning your trip. From October to April, expect around 5 to 7 rainy days per month.

Rain can be heavy, and the steep paths below the town quickly become slippery. In wet weather, I’d postpone the descent to El Tajo and check the status of the Camino del Desfiladero, which may be closed in bad weather.

Also, save the staircase in the Jardines de Cuenca and the walking circuit via Puente Viejo for a dry day.

Does it snow in Ronda?

Snow isn’t common in Ronda itself, but it can occur during severe winter cold spells.

Morning frosts, cold winds and snow on the higher peaks of the Serranía de Ronda are much more likely. I wouldn’t plan a winter trip because of the snow.

What to pack

In spring, autumn and winter, it’s a good idea to wear layers and a light waterproof jacket. Even after a warm day, it can get chilly in the evening at the viewpoints. In summer, take a hat, sun cream and plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk down to Puente Nuevo.

On very hot days, I’d start in the morning at the Jardines de Cuenca, visit the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor at midday, and save the sunset at the Alameda del Tajo for the evening.

Staying an extra night in Ronda also gives you a better chance of avoiding both the rain and the midday heat. I describe recommended neighbourhoods and hotels in the chapter ‘Where to stay in Ronda’; you can compare current prices on Booking.com.

To continue planning your trip, head to ‘What to See in Ronda ’ and ‘How to Get to Ronda’.

Weather in Ronda by month

Weather in January

January is the coldest month. Daytime temperatures are usually around 12 °C; after dark, temperatures drop to just a few degrees above zero, and there may be frost in the morning. Snow in the town itself is rare.

Expect rain and a cold wind at open-air viewpoints. On a clear day, however, visibility is usually excellent and the surrounding mountains may be snow-capped. January is a bit of a gamble for a short day trip; if you stay for at least one night, you’ll have a better chance of catching a spell of good weather.

Weather in February

February isn’t much different from January, but the days are getting longer. You’ll still need a warm jacket and a waterproof layer, especially in the mornings and evenings.

The weather tends to be changeable. A sunny day can be pleasant for strolling around the city, but if it’s raining, I’d avoid the steep descents below the Puente Nuevo.

Weather in March

Spring begins in March, but the weather is not yet stable. Daytime temperatures hover around 15 °C, mornings remain chilly, and sunshine may alternate with showers several times in the course of a single day.

It’s a good month for exploring the city, provided you don’t mind carrying a jacket in your rucksack. The countryside around Ronda is starting to turn green, and on clear days even longer walks are enjoyable.

Weather in April

April offers pleasant temperatures of around 17 °C, but rain is still not uncommon. Some days already feel almost summery, whilst others can be windy and significantly cooler.

When it’s dry, conditions are very good for a circular walk via the Jardines de Cuenca, Puente Viejo and the historic centre. Before setting off, I’d base my decision on the short-term forecast rather than the monthly average.

Weather in May

I consider May to be the best month for a first visit to Ronda. Daytime temperatures are usually around 21 °C, the evenings are pleasantly cool, and rain is less frequent than in April.

You can comfortably explore the town all day long, and the countryside hasn’t yet been parched by the summer sun. The good light lasts a long time, so there’s plenty of time to see Ronda’s main attractions and make the descent to Puente Nuevo.

Weather in June

June is usually warm, sunny and dry. Daytime temperatures hover around 25 °C, and rain no longer significantly disrupts your plans.

It’s still a very good time for a walking tour, though the descent into El Tajo can be tiring on a sunny afternoon. Make sure you take water with you from the town centre – there may be nowhere to buy it at the bottom.

Weather in July

July is hot and virtually rain-free. Average daily highs hover around 28 °C, though during heatwaves temperatures can exceed 35 °C.

I’d recommend visiting outdoor sites in the morning and late afternoon. The steep climb out of the gorge is unpleasant in the midday heat, and there isn’t much shade on the lower paths. The advantages are the long days and the almost guaranteed rain-free weather.

Weather in August

August is similarly hot and dry to July. You’ll notice the difference mainly in the evening, when temperatures drop more slowly. I’d save lunch or a visit to the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor for midday.

Return to the viewpoints before sunset. It is in the evening that the Alameda del Tajo has the best atmosphere, whilst the western side of the Puente Nuevo is bathed in more favourable light.

Weather in September

The first half of September still feels like summer. Daytime temperatures are usually around 25 °C and rain is the exception rather than the rule. Towards the end of the month, the first significant showers may appear, but temperatures remain very pleasant.

September is one of the best times to visit Ronda. At the start of the month, the Feria de Pedro Romero takes place, during which the town centre tends to be busier and hotels more expensive. The festivities are also closely linked to the local Plaza de Toros.

Weather in October

October offers pleasant daytime temperatures of around 20 °C, but rainier weather also returns. You’ll need a jacket in the mornings and evenings.

The temperatures are ideal for exploring this hilly city. If you’re planning to walk the Camino del Desfiladero or head down to the lower viewpoints at Puente Nuevo, check the rain forecast and whether the route is open beforehand.

Weather in November

In November, it gets noticeably cooler and there are more rainy days. Daytime temperatures are usually around 15 °C, but they drop rapidly after sunset.

I wouldn’t plan too packed a schedule for your visit. If it rains, you can stay in the historic centre, visit a church or part of the exhibition in the bullring, but Ronda’s main attraction lies in its outdoor viewpoints.

Weather in December

December has short days, chilly mornings and is one of the rainiest times of the year. Daytime temperatures hover around 12 °C, whilst at night they can drop close to zero.

On clear days, the winter views are beautifully crisp and the town tends to be quieter. However, due to the changeable weather, I’d prefer to stay for at least one night rather than rely on a few hours during a day trip.