A Day in Gibraltar – A Road Trip Highlight
So there I was, crossing the border into Gibraltar on a whirlwind road trip through Andalucía, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint. From the very first moment, when I found myself walking across an actual airport runway (yes, that’s how you enter Gibraltar!), I knew I was in for something completely different.
The Rock and Its Wild Residents Of course, the first thing that catches your eye is the Rock of Gibraltar itself—massive, rugged, standing like a sentinel over everything. I took the cable car to the top, and wow, the views! You can see Spain sprawling behind you, the Mediterranean shimmering below, and even Africa faintly in the distance. And then, of course, the famous Barbary macaques make their appearance. They’re adorable but absolute little bandits—one got uncomfortably close to my backpack, probably hoping for snacks.
History, Caves, and Underground Mysteries Gibraltar’s history is everywhere. Walking through the tunnels carved into the Rock, imagining soldiers working in the dark during the Great Siege, was surreal. Then there’s St. Michael’s Cave—less history, more natural wonder, but equally jaw-dropping. The formations inside feel otherworldly, and standing in the underground auditorium makes you want to listen to a concert right then and there.
City Strolls and a Taste of Britain After soaking in all that dramatic history and nature, I wandered down to the city. Gibraltar is this strange, wonderful blend of British and Mediterranean vibes. Walking past red telephone booths and shops selling English tea, but hearing Spanish all around—it’s bizarre in the best way. I couldn’t resist stopping for fish and chips at a local pub. Sitting in the sun, eating classic British food, just steps away from Spain—it was the perfect paradox.
The Final Lookout—A View Like No Other Before leaving, I made my way to Europa Point, where the lighthouse watches over the meeting of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Standing there, looking out at Morocco on the horizon, really put into perspective just how unique Gibraltar’s location is.
It’s wild how much Gibraltar packs into such a small space. One day felt short, but somehow, I left feeling like I had experienced something entirely its own—part British, part Spanish, part untamed rock. Would I go back? Absolutely.
