Hotels and accommodation, activities and attractions in Somerset, Bath and Exmoor

In 2005 Gibraltar saw over 100,000 visitors grace its shores – more then three times its population. So what attracts so many people to ‘The Rock’? For one, there are many cheap flights to Gibraltar to be had. With Easyjet for instance, fares go from as little as 29 pounds there and 18 pounds back, a steal when you consider the extortionate amounts we pay just to get on a train in Britain. If you like your comforts but your holiday is constrained by a tight budget then Gibraltar offers many 4* hotels for prices around the £50 pppn mark, and of course there are other options for those who prefer total luxury or total basics. On top of all the great transport and hotels deals on offer, it is an undeniable fact that Gibraltar attracts holidaymakers because of the low price of VAT-free goods and services sold on the island, especially duty-free alcohol and tobacco. It is an added bonus that the currency is sterling and you can easily keep track of exactly what you are paying. So if you are looking to really get the most out of your money, this might be the perfect shopping destination for you.

There are of course a large number of attractions besides the low priced goods. Lying near the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, the stunning territory enjoys a healthy Mediterranean climate with summer average highs of 27 degrees Celsius. If you are looking for a relaxing break in which to enjoy the weather and atmosphere then Gibraltar offers many beaches, as well as picturesque marinas to visit, and the town centre with its squares and colonial architecture to meander through. Other points of interest for the culture seeker include the Moorish Castle, St Michael’s Cave, the Ibrahim al-Ibrahim Mosque, and Europa Point (which is the southernmost point of Gibraltar, where on a clear day looking out to sea grants the observer views of North Africa including the Moroccan Rif mountains). The military history of the area is also an interesting reason to visit, and you might want to explore the Gibraltar siege tunnels. For the more active visitor, try a diving lesson or book a fishing trip at one of the marinas. There is something for everyone.

Wherever you go and whatever you do in Gibraltar you will also be sure to see some unusual and exciting wildlife. Migrating birds are common, and the famous Barbary Macaques are the only wild monkeys found in Europe, often roaming the streets of the town area.

Being a diverse community, Gibraltar’s range of restaurants reflects the tastes of its locals. There is a wide and varied range of places to drink and dine, with seafood being a speciality in coastal parts, and a great number of traditional British pubs and bars. It is not a place renowned for its nightlife but naturally Gibraltar has a good number of clubs offering something to suit most tastes in music, drinks and ambience. Make sure you take advantage of one of the cheap flights to Gibraltar and all that it has to offer this holiday.