Andalusia

If you don't plan to visit Granada on those four days, then base yourself in Arcos, even though parking is more difficult (make sure your accommodations will have a spot for you). From Arcos, you can range east to Ronda and Zahara, south to Gibraltar, and west to Cadiz, spending less time travelling. Try to stop in Ubrique, the center of leatherworking in Spain.

I've started to look at vacation rentals and note that a lot of nice rentals are near Gaudin. This town is not mentioned in Steves. Is anyone familiar with it and whether it might make a good base for exploring Andalusia? I'm still thinking either Arcos or Ronda, so continue to welcome thoughts on that. Thanks to all in advance of your kind help.

Are you sure of the spelling of Gaudin? Is it possibly Gaucin? If you are referring to Gaucin, we will be staying there in the fall. Most of the reason I chose it was because of location - so that we could visit Ronda and Arcos - and because of the lovely rentals in the area.

If it is Gaucin, then I second Kathryn's recommendation....Gaucin is a wonderful mountain village, a true "white village," high enough that you can see Gibraltar and the mountains in North Africa on a clear day. Wonderful place to visit other white villages in the area, or range down to Gibraltar or up to Ronda. Not a lot going on there in terms of excitement, but if you want that, head for Sevilla! ;)