Rocky Gibraltar

My first visit was in winter and was it ever cold!  And windy.  I'm sure you've heard of the three brass monkeys - the local ones are very wise.  They stayed indoors.  Nope, nary a one did I see.

Before taking the Cable Car to the top of the Rock I strolled around the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens (free) - sometimes called the Alameda Gardens.  It is delightful to wander among the various plants and trees - cacti, succulents, shrubs, colourful hibiscus, palms and flowers. 

Amazingly these gardens were created from what used to be the Grand Parade where military ceremonies and changing of the guard took place.  Gibraltar's version of London's Horse Guards Parade?

So there I was at the top of the Rock jacketed and hooded and keeping a firm grip on my bag - shoulder strap crosswise so the monkeys couldn't steal it.  But where were they?  No, not apes, but Barbary Macaques. Tail-less, unlike monkeys.  They were keeping well away out of the wind.  It was quite difficult trying to take photos of the fantastic views, but I did manage to get some.

Morocco

Look how close Morocco is and, of course, there are lots of lovely views of the Spanish mainland and along the coast.

A stroll around the shops is interesting.  I bought socks in BHS and a blouse (on sale) in Wallis.  Oh yes, there are also English pubs, post boxes and red telephone boxes.

One hint - it is a long walk from the cruise ship dock so, unless you are strong of leg, take the shuttle bus - it will be worth it.  From Casements Square you can shop or go sightseeing.  North of the square are the World War II tunnels, the Military Heritage Centre, the City Under Siege Exhibition and a Moorish Castle.  The Cable Car to the top of the Rock is near the Botanic Gardens to the east of Casements Square.

Of course you can always fly in to Gibraltar which is an experience in itself - Winston Churchill Avenue crosses the runway.