Gibraltar is a great place to visit, as there are many interesting things to see and do. It is the only place in Spain that is governed by the United Kingdom and has English as the main language. Gibraltar embraces the English culture so it is very different from the rest of Spain.
The Gibraltar Rock
Gibraltar is named after the Rock of Gibraltar, a significant landmark in Europe. It is home to around 3000 Barbary Macaques, the only wild monkeys in the whole of Europe! These animals attract a large amount of tourists each year and are fascinating to watch. You can reach the top of the Rock by taking a Gondola ride for 15 GBP (23.25 USD). From a height of 426m, you will see the African coastline, Spain’s Costa La Sol and a great view of Gibraltar.
Bird watching
As the strait of Gibraltar is the narrowest crossing point for birds migrating to and from Europe, the Rock is a fantastic place to bird watch. There have been 315 different species recorded over the years! The Rock provides a temporary home for many of the birds, as it is full of vegetation and a good resting spot for those continuing over the desert and sea.
St. Michael’s Cave
At the top of the Rock, you will also find St. Michael’s Cave. This cave has attracted visitors from all over the world, as it was once believed to be bottomless. This gave birth to the story that the Rock of Gibraltar was linked to the continent of Africa by a passage. Today, it is used as a unique auditorium for concerts, ballets, drama and guided tours. You will also find a mini lake in here!
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Gibraltar Botanic Gardens
At the bottom of the Rock, you will find the very famous Gibraltar Botanic Gardens known also as La Alameda. They cover 15 acres and have been commissioned since 1815. These gardens were created by the British Governor, who wanted a recreational space for himself and his soldiers. You will find mostly native plant species in the garden as well as a few that have been brought from abroad. It will not cost you anything to enter and you can stay for as long as you like!
Shopping in Gibraltar
Gibraltar is a great place for shopping and has very similar shops to the UK. You will find most of these down the main street and in the Gibraltar shopping centre. Most shops allow you to use euros as well as pounds. However, I would suggest taking both just in case a shop only accepts one currency. The locals speak English so it is easy to communicate with the shop staff. A popular souvenir that many travelers purchase, is a postcard covered in monkeys!
Traditional food
As Gibraltar is part of England, you will find very little Spanish food here! There are many great pubs that offer traditional English meals such as fish and chips, steak pie and Cornish pasties. In particular, I would suggest going to Lord Nelson. They offer amazing service, great food and a fun atmosphere. There is often live music playing during the evening and they also have weekly quiz nights during the summer months.
Climate and handy facts
Gibraltar has a subtropical Mediterranean climate, therefore it is warm all year round. Temperatures can vary from 25 – 35 degrees Celsius in the summer and 15 – 25 degrees Celsius in the winter. Do consider visiting in the summer, as there is far greater atmosphere and many exciting events.
When entering into Gibraltar from Spain, you will need your passport or some form of identification. You will get a massive shock when crossing the border, as the culture in Gibraltar is so different to that of Spain. Another great attraction in Gibraltar is the low tax rate! Many people come here specifically for shopping, as they do not have to pay a lot of tax.
Gibraltar is a very interesting place with plenty of things to do for people of all ages. It will definitely take you a few days to explore everything that is on offer!
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