Gibraltar
Gibraltar, or simply the Rock, is a British Overseas Territory wedged between North Africa and Spain at the mouth of the Mediterranean. Climb the famous Rock of Gibraltar and see magnificent views extending to the northern coast of Africa. Enjoy an intriguing mix of Spanish and English culture, see fascinating caves and nature reserves and see impish Barbary macaques.
Start your Gibraltar visit with a Spanish-infused full-English breakfast. Find the helpful tourist office in Cathedral Square and explore the downtown area on foot. Visit Market Place and learn about Gibraltar’s ancient Moorish history and military heritage. Head to Europa Point, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. Spot Africa’s northern coast from this waterfront vantage point. Join a relaxing cruise around the bays and see dolphins leaping from the water.
Make your way up the Rock of Gibraltar, a monumental peak of Jurassic limestone jutting into the sky. For an energetic adventure, hike up the steep Mediterranean Steps on the Rock’s eastern side. Begin at Jew’s Gate to enjoy remarkable seaside and Spanish coastal views as you climb. A convenient cable car operates between the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens’ perimeter and the Rock’s peak. Stop halfway to visit Apes’ Den, where you can see fuzzy Barbary macaques.
From the Rock’s summit, see breathtaking views of the Alboran Sea and the Bay of Gibraltar at a height of 1,397 feet (426 meters). Look toward Spain’s magnificent Costa del Sol and Gibraltar’s marinas and bays. Wander along a rocky path to St. Michael’s Cave to see stunning natural wonder and eerily lit stalactites. Explore the Rock’s intricate Great Siege Tunnels, built in the 18th century.
Gibraltar has an area of 2.6 square miles (6.8 square kilometers), so it can easily be explored on foot. Taxis and buses operate on the territory and cruise ships regularly port in Gibraltar Harbour. Reach Gibraltar by plane to Gibraltar Airport or Malaga Airport in Spain. Enjoy Gibraltar’s Mediterranean climate, with long, dry summers.
