♫ “All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gr—” ♫
Oh. Wait. The sky isn’t grey and not all of the leaves are brown, because this is Ronda in southern Spain.
But is the weather turning cold, grey, and wet where you live? If you’re starting to long for sunshine, why not book a winter break in Andalucia? Here are a few reasons why Andalucia in southern Spain is the perfect place to visit during the winter months:
1. It's sunny and warm in the winter!
See? This is Ronda in December, sitting pretty in the sunshine under a blue-blue sky.
In sunny Andalucia, we are blessed with an average of 5-6 hours of sunshine per day during December, January, and February, and daytime temperatures of 13-15°C/55-59°F, which is just perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding. We do have some rain during the winter months, helping the valley remain lushly green, with November being the wettest month. However, the above photo of our magical threshing circle wearing its autumn colours was taken in November, so you can see that it most certainly doesn’t rain every day!
If you're looking to escape the cold and grey at home, why not have a quick look at the cheap flights to Malaga, Seville or Gibraltar, gather your hiking/biking/horse riding/photographer/bird-watching/wine tasting/foodie friends together and enjoy a long weekend or short stay in the stunning Andalusian countryside. We have six spacious bedrooms, three living rooms, and dining for up to twelve both inside and out on the terrace with a magnificent view - plenty of space for your family or friends to relax in.
2. Flights to Andalucia are cheaper during autumn, winter, and spring
Outside of the busy summer season from June to September, flights and car hire can be amazingly cheap here. For airlines that fly to Málaga, take a look at our airline information page. La Cazalla is a 1.5-hour drive from Málaga airport, 1h45 from Gibraltar and just under 2 hours from Seville airport. Don’t be put off by the drive, your mini-break will start on empty roads, through spectacular scenery and idyllic white mountain villages and you’ll need a car while you’re here to really explore the surrounding area.
Flights are at their lowest throughout January, and there are great deals to be had during February, March, the latter part of April, and early May too. Additionally, as car rental companies have a surplus of vehicles during the quieter, off-season months, you can pick up some amazing deals. Take a look at DoYouSpain.com for some fantastic off-season prices.
Taking advantage of low-cost flights during late-January, February, and early-March will also mean that you will be here to experience the glorious almond blossom display and the first of the spring wildflowers.
3. It's perfect for hiking, cycling, and horse riding
With summertime temperatures hitting the mid- to high-30s in July and August, getting out into the countryside during the day can prove a little uncomfortable. The cooler temperatures from November to May however are absolutely perfect for outdoor sports, as are the beautiful and varied surroundings. We have mountain peaks, rivers running through valleys, wide meadows, and very little traffic, meaning there's the perfect terrain for all those wishing to hike or ride. Shake off that winter sluggishness, and start your spring training programme early. Enjoy some fresh air and exercise during the day, and then snuggle up in front of our open fire in the evening.
For ideas on which adventure sports are available, walking routes, and our recommendations for tour operators, simply have a read through some of 'Things To Do' blog posts or get in touch with us.
4. just want to sit in the sun with a cerveza and tapas?
Let’s be honest, nothing makes us feel more smug than a quick pic on Instagram or Facebook of a table in the sun, covered in interesting tapas, alongside a cold cerveza or a glass of local wine, with the backdrop of a quintessential Spanish plaza under a clear blue sky. What’s even better, is the way it actually makes you feel (apart from warm!) - relaxed, happy, calm, recharged by the beauty of the place and the pleasure of great food and a change of scenery.
According to Trip Advisor there are currently 251 restaurants, bars and cafes in Ronda, more than enough for a lifetime of long weekends! We’ve whittled it down to a few favourites to save you time!
Plaza, Barrio San Francisco, Ronda
5. There are fewer people here... shhhhhh....
Our home town of Ronda is the third-most-popular place to visit in Andalucia (after Seville and Granada) and it does get quite busy during summer, particularly on the breathtaking bridge linking the old and new parts of town. However, it's quieter here during low season, allowing visitors time to dawdle, and pause, and appreciate the view.
5. Short breaks are available at La Cazalla de Ronda
During the popular summer months we are only able to rent our luxury villa in Ronda for a full week from Saturday to Saturday, but in low-season we are happy to be able to offer greater flexibility. Our minimum stays of 2 nights only mean that a party of 12 pays just €80 per person for a 2 night stay from Sunday to Thursday. Yup. You read that right. Or if you’re tied to the weekends, how about €100 per person for 2 nights, Friday and Saturday, right up until Easter, here:
Gifts for our guests: our organic extra virgin olive oil, jams and chutneys made from fruit growing on the property, and walnuts and almonds from our own trees.
What are you waiting for?
To reserve your stay at luxury villa La Cazalla de Ronda, with its 13-acres of secluded valley, simply contact us today and we will be delighted to assist you.
We look forward to welcoming you soon.