Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory on the southern tip of Spain, is dominated by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar. This towering monolith, standing 426 meters high, offers breathtaking views, a rich history, and a unique blend of cultures. During a weekend trip, I had the chance to explore this fascinating location, and it quickly became a highlight of my time in Spain, despite technically being outside of it.
My adventure began with friends – Jisha, Johnna, Meredith, and Phil – as we decided to venture to Gibraltar. The journey itself, though lengthy by train and bus, was visually stunning. The Spanish countryside unfolded before us, a panorama of seemingly endless sand punctuated by olive trees. This serene landscape offered a calming prelude to the adventures awaiting us. Arriving late on Friday night, we checked into our spacious flat, complete with a kitchen and tea – a detail my friends playfully attributed to my “Britishness”. Shawarma, a popular takeaway dish in Spain, became our first meal in Gibraltar, setting a positive tone for the weekend. Despite the long travel day leaving us tired, the anticipation for exploring The Rock Of Gibraltar the next day filled us with excitement.
Saturday morning started early, fueled by the promise of an authentic English breakfast. The baked beans and tomatoes alongside eggs were a novelty to my American friends but a comforting taste of familiarity for me, reminiscent of my time in England the previous year. Breakfast done, we set off to conquer The Rock of Gibraltar.
Our ascent began with a hike to the cable car, known locally as the sky ride. Despite a slight fear of heights, I braved the glass carriage. The initial sway was unnerving, but the panoramic views of the Rock of Gibraltar that unfolded around us quickly overshadowed any fear. The cable car provided a unique perspective, showcasing the sheer scale and majesty of the rock face.
Reaching the summit, we were immediately greeted by Gibraltar’s famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe. These playful primates were a delightful surprise. I spent a good while observing them, even spotting a tiny baby macaque that looked just days old. Photos were quickly snapped to share with family back home, sparking instant envy.
Beyond the monkeys, we ventured into the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, a realm of historical and natural wonders. Abandoned military artillery batteries dotted the landscape, silent witnesses to Gibraltar’s strategic past. One battery was accessible, leading us into dimly lit interiors with eerie cages, a reminder of the rock’s military history. Our exploration continued, drawn by the promise of more to discover within the nature reserve.
The nature trail revealed stunning vistas of the Rock of Gibraltar and the expansive ocean. An unexpected fog rolled in, transforming the scenery into something out of a dramatic film. The city below was engulfed in mist, creating an atmosphere that was both eerie and beautiful. Our path led us to St. Michael’s Cave, a natural grotto repurposed as a concert venue. The thought of a concert within the illuminated cave, highlighting the stalactites and stalagmites, was captivating. Though the lower cave was closed, it added to the allure, promising a future return visit.
From the cave, we headed towards the Windsor Suspension Bridge. Another test for my fear of heights, the bridge offered incredible photo opportunities of Gibraltar and personal moments of triumph.
Crossing the high bridge with Meredith, who shared my apprehension, was a shared victory. This trip to The Rock of Gibraltar was pushing boundaries and fostering a sense of accomplishment.
Next, we explored the World War II tunnels carved deep within The Rock of Gibraltar. The contrast between the warm sunshine outside and the cool, damp tunnels was striking. These tunnels, stretching for an astonishing 34 miles, served as a crucial military installation during the war. Exhibits showcasing British military uniforms and historical information provided a fascinating history lesson, highlighting why The Rock of Gibraltar remains strategically important to Britain.
Our final stop on The Rock of Gibraltar was the Moorish Castle. While its interior was somewhat dilapidated, the exterior, with its classic turrets and stone walls, offered a picturesque view overlooking the beach and the rock itself. A tranquil garden provided a peaceful conclusion to our exploration of The Rock.
In total, Saturday involved an impressive 15 miles of walking. After our descent, we enjoyed lunch and relaxed on the beach. A swim in the ocean and some rock exploration revealed vibrant marine life. The underwater world around The Rock of Gibraltar beckoned, sparking thoughts of a future diving trip with my dad. Relaxation followed, with an afternoon nap on the beach before departing at 7:00 pm. Dinner on the way back to our flat, showers, and a movie night with tea provided a perfect, relaxing end to an action-packed day exploring The Rock of Gibraltar.
Sunday was quieter, a welcome respite after Saturday’s adventures. An early morning walk offered a final glimpse of The Rock of Gibraltar bathed in sunrise light. Discovering an old church with beautiful stained glass windows underscored the charm of European exploration – the unexpected historical gems tucked around every corner, contrasting with modern life. This blend of old and new is a constant source of fascination.
After checking out, breakfast and a taxi ride brought us to the train station for the long journey back to Granada. Reflecting on the weekend, the trip to The Rock of Gibraltar stood out as a program highlight. Witnessing the unique cultural and political dynamics of Gibraltar – a place straddling Spanish and British identities, currencies, and languages – was both intriguing and slightly surreal. The hope to return with family someday solidified the lasting impression The Rock of Gibraltar had made.
