DUBBED the ‘City of Dreams’, appropriately, by German poet Rilke there are plenty of excellent places to stay in the Ronda area.

In the heart of the city there are many emblematic choices, but if it is peace and quiet you are after then simple Hotel Boabdil is a good bet.

Set up by a friendly expat couple it sits in one of the most charming streets of the old town, just yards from ancient Almocobar gate and its excellent same name restaurant.

The rooms are clean and airy and some boast good views.

Also in the old town look out for Aire de Ronda, which is both stylish and traditional in equal measures.

In the countryside nearby are some of Andalucia’s hippest hotels.

Easily one of the best choices is Molino del Puente, run by friendly English couple Ian and Elaine Love, who also have one of the area’s best restaurants La Cascada.

A bit further away in Benaojan you must certainly consider incredible Molino del Santo, a classic rural retreat, which has been serving the area for nearly three decades.

Run by English couple Pauline and Andy, the hotel has the knack of keeping guests happy with just the right mix of comfort, good food and character.

Best of all, it counts on one of the best restaurants in Andalucia, and has many, many returning guests.

Closer to Ronda, in the charming village of Arriate, you will find a number of great places to stay.

The first, Hotel Arriadh, has been providing weary travellers with lodgings for over a decade in the hills above the town with the most amazing views imaginable.

Recently completely renovated by a Dutch couple John and Wilfred, it completely capitalizes on the amazing views and light and the gardens are incredibly peaceful.

Best of all your hosts are incredibly helpful and friendly and go out of their way to ensure you have a fantastic stay.

Over in the Genal Valley you will find Los Castanos, Andalucia’s top rated hotel on TripAdvisor.

Sitting in the sleepy, authentic village of Cartajima, it is the retreat of cultured expats Diana and John Beach, who go out of their way to ensure you have a superb break.

A lovely townhouse, you can walk right from the door and there are some excellent local restaurants. Best of all there are loads of books and you can also eat in if you fancy it.

Last, but not least, why not try out Hostal Anon over in Jimena, which is a great place for a romantic break.

It’s been a classic stopover for travelers for decades and the rooms have a Spanish rustic feel, while the outside intertwining terraces have a Moorish decor.