Adventure sports, also known as extreme sports or action sports, are activities perceived as involving a high degree of risk—they frequently entail speed, height, a high level of physical exertion and highly specialised gear—coupled with high recreational intensity in a natural environment. They are sure to get thrill-seekers’ heart rate up and the adrenaline going.

Well-known for its mountainous areas and closeness to nature, Malaga province—and in particular Ronda’s inland area—boast perfect spots for canyoning or gorge walking, via ferrata courses, caving, sport climbing, mountain bike routes and many more.

For those looking for a truly unique experience, but not wanting to stray far from The Wine & Country Club, a great option is canyoning in the steep walls of the Tajo de Ronda defile. Located right in the heart of Ronda’s built-up area and the only one of its kind, it offers an impressive 35-metre waterfall just below Puente Nuevo—the newest and largest of three bridges that span the 120-metre-deep chasm that carries the Guadalevin River—. The second waterfall (25 metres high) features a 12-metre jump, only suitable for the most daring with a head for heights that have some previous gorge walking or rappelling experience.

Another must for adrenaline junkies is the Tajo de Ronda via ferrata. Located in a prime setting, this spot is ideal for beginners—doable, yet exciting.

This via ferrata was used in the 1920s by workers of the late electricity generation company La Sevillana to support the site with stone walls to protect the mills and water ditches in the area.

For the more adventurous, both sports can be taken to a whole different and much more challenging level in the Serrania de Ronda, Sierra de Grazalema and surrounding area.

Those with claustrophobia should stay away from the cave systems at Serrania de Ronda and Sierra de las Nieves, which will however work a treat with long-time potholing enthusiasts.

These limestone formations, some featuring water hazards, are a full-blown spectacle.

If climbing is your thing, there are a number of companies near Ronda specialising in courses to help you master the basics and techniques of sport climbing; with their help, you will nail low-medium difficulty routes autonomously and in complete safety.

For their part, two-wheeler fans will be delighted with the abundance of bike trails in the area.

Practical Tips For Extreme Sports

1. Choose the adventure sport and level of difficulty that best suit you. Overexertion or finding yourself in a situation that you cannot face or control will prevent you from enjoying the activity.
2. Plan the day ahead and take appropriate safety measures. Also, ensure you have the necessary equipment and the minimum prescribed knowledge.
3. Check your fitness and, where necessary, train yourself a few days or weeks before.
4. Never participate in extreme sports alone. Many adventure sports enthusiasts have a coach or responsible party overseeing any activity. Have a partner who can assist you or go for help if you get injured.
5. Wherever you go, you need to be aware of the current weather conditions in that particular area. This will help you decide the set of clothes/utility items you will need, depending on whether it is a rain or wind-prone location or one with excessive sun exposure.
6. Before you get started, make sure you are properly rested and eat breakfast according to the physical effort that your action sport of choice requires.
7. Pack like a pro! The required technical equipment must be of good quality and in perfect condition.
8. Know your limitations and do not take any chances. Do not indulge in something for which your body is not fit; when in doubt, check with a guide or expert. If you are going solo and you feel ill at ease at any point in time, pull back or do not advance. Remember safety comes first and you are out to have some fun.