The whole of Gibraltar is a showcase of history. Linking the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean and rising from the sea like a giant monolith it is in sight long before you even come close.
The Rock has drawn people for millennia due to the fact that if you control the rock, you control the Straight.
The town is full of twisting, narrow winding streets. Where there was no way through a mountain they simply blasted through so tunnels abound. To drive to the sights on the Upper Rock was on a series of very steep, switchback roads that were in parts so narrow that there was only room for one car to pass. Not so easy where on one side there was a sheer drop off and on the other a cliff face.
Gibraltar is such a little slice of Britain so removed from the mother country that it is hard to believe it is still in existence. According to the last referendum this is the way the locals want it stay. It is constantly noticeable when coming from Spain with everything from the red phone boxes through to the Fosters signs (made me think of home).
All over the peninsular there are plaques explaining different parts of the Rocks history. The area is littered with old cannons, metal hooks bolted into the cliff faces that were used for the hauling heavy artillery and old gun batteries. All of it is testament to man’s determination to make full use of the strategic importance of its position. ${QuickSuggestions} The highlight for us was the Upper Rock, for a flat admission price this covers all the attractions along with a clear and easy to follow map.
At the most southern tip of the peninsular there is a lighthouse and also a lookout that offers great views towards Africa. The Straight was filled with tankers. The higher you climb the more stupendous are the views.
Gibraltar is overwhelming British although the Pound and Euro are universally accepted.
We had read that accommodation was scarce and very expensive, especially at 2.77 pounds to the Aussie dollar so opted not to stay.
We actually drove across from Spain on an afternoon visit and managed to see nearly all Gibraltar has to offer.${BestWay} Should you not have a car we saw many tour buses and there is also a cable car that takes you to the Top Station of the Rock.
If you are driving it is interesting that on arrival and departure you actually drive or walk across the airport runway to cross the border. It was a first for me. I guess that if an aircraft was landing all the traffic has to wait.
Driving in Gibraltar is only for someone that is comfortable with their car or who as most of the local cars attest to don’t mind having a scrape or dent up the side.
Parking is at a premium due to the lack of space and as many roads are dead end you need to be a contortionist or a good driver to turn your car around.
It took no time whatsoever on the crossing over, a visa stamp in our passports and we were on our way. It took much longer on the way out, the queue was much slower and the customs control was quite strict searching any number of cars. We were waved straight through.
Check before crossing on if you need a visa as it may differ depending on your country of origin.
From journal Day Trip to Gibraltar