After visiting a few Pueblos Blancos, I plan to drive from Ronda to Malaga. One route suggested by viamichelin is A-367 (passing through Arriate, Cuevas del Becerro), and A-357 (passing through Ardales, Casarabonela, Pizarra, Cártama). ~70 miles and two hours. Are any of these places along the route worth stopping for short tours?

I don't understand the question. You can visit all six villages on the way to Málaga, but it will probably take you most of the day, with stops. All are interesting in their own right.

Very little is written about these villages, and I will not have time to stop at each. Hence the question if there maybe one or two that stands out.

Don't bother. Not interesting.

Well, maybe Arriate. Supposed to have a nice hotel and some good restaurants.

That may explain the lack of write up about these villages. I'll drive right through and get to Malaga sooner.

Just be careful. All roads to Ronda are very windy with hairpin turns. They wanted to put in a new road but thought better of that idea in order not to make it another Mijas with untold numbers of tour buses coming up from the coast.

I agree. Quite winding and hilly, but not particularly interesting or scenic. Found it boring to drive on. I would drive down to the coast and pick up toll Autopista A7.

From A-397 to Malaga, what is toll paying on Autopista A7 like? Need to take a ticket? Will it be a single payment at one booth, or will I need to pay multiple times at different booths? What is the traffic condition like on a weekday morning (west to east)?

This old thread is helpful.

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...s-in-spain.cfm

Ttt

You only pay when you get off, at toll booths, by cash or card. Traffic level is light, as most locals use free alternatives.