Visit Gibraltar For Sun, Monkeys & Epic Views From The ‘Rock’

The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar nestles on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and is bordered to the north by southern Spain. British ex-pats feel almost at home here, with branches of popular supermarkets, red telephone boxes and post boxes. However, the major difference is, of course, the weather, which is comparable to that of the Costa del Sol.

Meanwhile, Gib, as locals call it, is tiny, covering an area of 6.7 sq km (2.6 sq mi). However, that doesn’t mean that it is not crammed with things to see and do. Read on to find out what Gibraltar has to offer its visitors, including heading up the Rock, meeting the Barbary macaque monkeys and more.

Flying into Gibraltar Airport

The first unique experience in the British Overseas Territory is Gibraltar’s airport itself. In fact, your arrival here will literally stop traffic. This is due to the main road to the peninsula intersecting with the airport’s runway. Due to this, both cars and pedestrians often have to wait for planes to land or take off before they can cross to the other side.

Take the cable car up the Rock of Gibraltar

One major landmark here is the impressive Rock of Gibraltar that towers over the city. Meanwhile, the cable car takes six minutes to get to the summit, where impressive views can be experienced. From the terraces of the Top Station, visitors can see three countries and two continents. First, there is the British enclave below, Spain’s Costa del Sol and the Mediterranean Sea. Moreover, you can gaze across the Gibraltar Strait into the North African country of Morocco.

Meanwhile, the Top Station isn’t just about views, as it is home to the Rock’s famous residents, the Barbary macaques. However, while it may be a novelty to see the monkeys, always exercise caution around them. For one thing, they are talented thieves and could easily run off with your hat, sunglasses, or even purses. However, if you have food visible or should they feel intimidated, they have been known to attack. I, personally, was robbed of a delicious, double-chocolate muffin, while a nearby woman lost her purse.

Visit Europa Point

While Spain claims that the nearby Isla de las Palomas is Europe’s most southern spot, Gibraltarians disagree. In fact, the tip of the peninsula, dubbed Europa Point by the locals is definitely worth visiting.

Close to Trinity Lighthouse, you can watch ships crossing from the Mediterranean into the Atlantic Sea. Alternatively, you can gaze at the horizon and North Africa. Meanwhile, Europa Point is historically significant as it hosts two of Gibraltar’s most important religious sites, the Roman Catholic Shrine of Our Lady of Europe and the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque.

Explore the Great Siege Tunnels

One major aspect of Gibraltar is its strategic location, standing guard over the Mediterranean and Atlantic. Located deep inside the Rock itself are more than 35 miles of passages, storage spaces and halls. It was back in the late 1700s during the Great Siege that the first tunnels were excavated. Meanwhile, additions were later blasted and dug out during World War II.

As long as you are not claustrophobic, exploring the labyrinthine tunnels is a fascinating activity. However, ensure you have comfortable walking shoes as it is quite the climb to get back up to the surface.

Take to the beach in Gibraltar

As Gibraltar is so small, it doesn’t have the endless beaches you associate with the neighboring Costa del Sol. However, there are around six beaches that offer a day of soaking in the sun and taking a dip.

Meanwhile, the largest is Eastern Beach, located next to the airport and it is the most popular as it gets sun for most of the day. However, this means it can get crowded, so for a quieter experience and a chance to mingle with the locals, head to the smaller Catalan Bay beach. Moreover, with its pastel-colored houses and beachfront restaurants this is an attractive alternative.

Visit Casemates Square

After a day of exploring, head to Casemates Square, Gibraltar’s largest plaza for some rest and refreshment. With café culture being a big part of life in Gib, Casemates Square is the place to be. The square was named for a British barracks that stood here, with the surrounding ammunition stores now converted to cafés and bars.

Meanwhile, close by is Irish Town, a pedestrianized district located behind Main Street with a great selection of eateries, including the famous British fish and chips.

Besides flying into Gibraltar, you can also access the British Overseas Territory from Spain. However, bear in mind that a passport is required to visit, and there are often long queues of cars waiting to enter.