A lot of the "white villages" look quaint but there is nothing going on and I get bored easily. Unless you're into hiking one night in Ronda is enough for me. Everybody is different though.

Thank you Egbert.

Some how the "pueblos blancos" have become popular and I don't understand why. It is akin to drive-by touring. Clearly there are some towns which are worthwhile stops but as an activity I question it.

Yes, I should add Grazalema if you are interested in hiking. Ronda is a sizable city though, and I always found plenty enough going on.

I do understand why they have become popular, they have a lot of charm. Obviously, if you visit all of them it'll end up being boring, that's why most rec. are Garazalema and Zahara, close and representative. Cannot compare to Ronda, which is a small city. "There's nothing going on", tranquility is part of the charm.
You wont find in Arcos something you wont find in Ronda. Visit both and stay a couple of days on each place if you have the time. But if not, skip Arcos.