Itinerary
This section is not difficult at all, but you should perhaps keep in mind the weather, looking out for the strong winds or the fog that may be present during your ascent to the Encinas Borrachas (Drunken Holm Oaks). We will also have to cross or walk along the A-369 road, so watch out for the passing vehicles. Although we will always walk down livestock trails and public paths, some go through private ranches dedicated to stock breeding, agriculture or hunting; therefore, we must never abandon the road nor bother the cattle. Its is important that you bring along enough water because, although there are several fountains along the way, they may be dry. As in previous sections, we remind you that you must close the several gates you will encounter as you cross them on your way.
Summary
The sixth section of the Gran Senda (Great Track) runs through two areas of great geographic and historic importance to the region. On one hand, we have the river basin of the Audalázar stream, one of the main sources of the river Genal, and on the other, the Meseta rondeña (Plateau of Ronda), surrounded by all the mountain ranges that make up the Serranía de Ronda. The first stretch of this section includes the Vereda de la Fuente del Espino, which crosses the valley of the Audalázar stream to get to the Vereda del Camino de Ronda, and which we already know from the previous section. From the puerto de las Encinas Borrachas (Drunken Holm Oaks pass), the highest point of this part of our journey, we will enjoy great panoramic views of the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park and the hollow of Ronda, which is surrounded by vast holm oak forests. Before we arrive in Ronda, we will go through the spectacular setting of the Tajo del Abanico, moulded by the Sijuela stream and by other weathering agents. Finally, amongst farming grounds and cortijos (country houses), we enter the town of Ronda through the popular barrio de San Francisco (San Francisco neighbourhood), and finish our journey through the GR-141.
The best
The Great Serranía de Ronda Path is a circular walk which allows us to see a great part of the Serranía de Ronda through its six stages.
It is well known that one of the best ways to explore a place is by visiting its countryside and enjoying the landscape away from the roads. This is definitely the case of the Serranía de Ronda, as here, due to some practical reasons, the modern roads were not made over the old roads which had connected villages like in some other areas.
Actually, there is a whole world full of stories, legends, fountains, springs, old farmsteads, mills and houses waiting to be discovered. You just need to park your car, put your hiking boots on and follow the path.
The Great Serranía de Ronda Path is waiting for you. Moreover, you will not be alone on this trip. The trail goes through most of the small villages in the Serranía de Ronda, where you can get some rest and have a meal in its small bars or restaurants, buy food for your trip or even stay overnight in country houses or small hotels.
The sixth stage of the 141 Long-distance Path goes along the Audalázar Stream basin and Ronda’s Plateau. Many panoramic views of the Sierra de las Nieves Nature Park and the Depression of Ronda can be admired from deforested Encinas Borrachas Pass. On your way to Ronda, you will reach a stunning natural beauty spot, called Tajo del Abanico, a cliff. Finally, you will get into Ronda through its popular San Francisco neighbourhood, having walked among farmland and farmsteads.