alison

Hi fellow Fodorites, We are off to Andalusia and Madrid in May. Just hitting the highlights for DH - I visited all these places 40 years ago! I think we're in good shape with our itinerary: Coming from LAX flying nonstop to Madrid and connecting immediately to Granada, 3 nights Granada (Alhambra booked), 4 nights Seville (with day trip to Cordoba - would have preferred longer but minimizing hotel stops), train Seville to Madrid booked and then 4 nights Madrid (day trip to Toledo). Then we're off to Provence to visit family staying there on sabbatical -- that's why the Spain itinerary got shortened a bit.
My question now: Rather than take the bus or the bus/train combo since the direct train isn't operating yet, we have a one-way rental car through Autoeurope from Granada to Seville. Since we don't have that much time in each city, should we just drive directly to Seville (approx 3 hours) and drop off car OR should we detour and stop for a quick visit (one to two hours) in Ronda.? FWIW, I visited Ronda 40 years ago and don't even remember it.
This detour would add about 1.5 hours driving time. Is the road in or out of Ronda particularly twisty/windy?
We can also wait to see how the weather is and our mood that day, but thought I'd ask for input.
Bonus points for anyone who has any tips for car pickup at Granada train station and drop off at Santa Justa in Seville (Europcar).
Thanks in advance for any input!

maitaitom

Personally, we didn't feel Ronda was any great shakes (stopped for lunch), but it could be a decent detour for your lunch that day and to see the gorge, which is impressive (I included link to trip report with photos below ... after Barcelona, we traveled to Granada,, Sevilla, Cordoba, Toledo and Madrid). It was one of our most memorable trips and maybe the report will give you some tips. Full disclosure ... most people on this board really like Ronda.

https://travelswithmaitaitom.com/spain-2015/

Alcazar - Sevilla



Ronda

alison

maitaitom way ahead of you! Already read your TR and appreciated it greatly. I do a LOT of research and reading usually before I start asking questions. I'll post my itinerary in more detail before we go so people can "have at it" with specific recommendations! Always appreciate your input.

kja

Like maitaitom, I'm glad that I saw Ronda, but it simply is not in the same class as the other places you are visiting, and as you note, your time is limited.

maitaitom

Whenever I see these Spain posts it just makes me want to go back so badly. Have a great trip, and email me a GinTonic