Gibraltar

Sitting at the very south of Spain is the British overseas territory of Gibraltar. Thanks to its tiny size and the narrow straight of water where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar adventure travel opportunities are limited. However this tiny peninsula is a unique combination of beautiful scenery, rich heritage and, of course, spectacular weather – there are many outdoor activities in Gibraltar, and of course on the Spanish mainland just a 10-minute walk away.

Gibraltar’s temperate climate is ideal for the abundant wildlife and vegetation that covers its more rural sections. Famously home to the inquisitive Barbary macaques, this mysterious place affords you adventure and leisure in equal amounts.

The City of Gibraltar is an impressive sight; towering fortress walls stand as a fascinating reminder of the territory’s history and culture. Often disputed by the Spanish government, Gibraltar is proud of its position as a self-governing British state. The eclectic mixture of old British architecture and Mediterranean flair helps create one of the world’s most distinct and intriguing locations.

The island is dominated by the famous limestone Rock of Gibraltar, this unique landscape helps create an unusual climate which supports outdoor activities in Gibraltar but brings its own challenges:The summers are very hot and dry, but the shape of the rock creates cooling winds all year round. The winters tend to be wetter than much of the Mediterranean due to the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, but Gibraltar remains fairly warm in spite of this.

The Gibraltar adventure travel scene is helped by the exclusive properties of the Gibraltarian coast, which make sailing and diving here an experience like no other. Alternatively, climbing up to the top of the rock that gives Gibraltar its distinctive terrain you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Spanish mainland and the northernmost reaches of Africa.

Despite being tiny, Gibraltar has an airport, so the journey is very simple. The main settlement is a haven of tax-free shopping, sandy beaches and cultured history – most of the people who work here commute from the mainland and the main outdoor activities in Gibraltar for some is enjoying a beer in the bars after work. Join them, take in the best that the tiny city area has to offer, and then move on to exploring the rest.

It’s a small enough place for you to travel everywhere on foot, but given that the Rock of Gibraltar rises 412m high above sea level, if you’re not into hill walking may want to take a cable car, to ascend to the top.

For those who relish the prospect of hiking and exploring less well known the areas, perhaps the 30-mile labyrinth of tunnels set into the rock appeals? Return to the beaches for watersports and sun-bathing. The pleasant ocean and long hours of sunlight are there to provide you with all the relaxation and outdoor activities in Gibraltar you could ever need.

There’s plenty to do in this Mediterranean territory – but in Gibraltar adventure travel will quickly take you off the island and onto Spain so maybe also look at activities in nearby Tarifa, too. You can visit the playful dolphins in Gibraltar Bay; take a cable-car to the top of ‘the Rock’ to marvel at the views and the famous macaque; and go underground to take a look at the wonderful Gibraltarian caves. Whatever you do, you’ll find something fascinating here.