Mediterranean Steps

We love to hike new trails.  So when we heard about the Mediteranean Steps trail on the south east side of the rock, we were anxious to check it out.  This trail is classified as difficult and there are warnings for people with vertigo.  But we have been doing a lot of hiking so we were sure that we could all handle it.  What surprised us the most was the incredible views.  A trail wraps around the southern side of the rock, with views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean.

On such a nice clear day you can easily see the Morocco to the south of the Strait of Gibralter.

Enjoying the amazing views of the Mediterranean and the many boats out on the water.

We were also happy to see that there were some playful dolphins in the water.  We attempted to get some photos.  But were not quick enough to catch them.

At one point on the trail there were some shallow caves.  Luie thought this was awesome.

These pictures just don’t do justice to the amazing views.

In the far distance you can see the red and white lighthouse of Europa Point.

Amazing views from the east side of the rock of Gibraltar.

The monkeys are all over the rock, but there seems to be more near the road.

 We took the Queen’s Gate steps down the rock.  It was  5.5 miles round trip.  Most of the hiking was either up or down.  So we were pretty tired by the time we got home.  Dave twisted his knee on some loose gravel on the trail, so he was having quite a bit of knee pain coming down all the steps.  Overall it was a great hike with fantastic views.  Also, seeing wild dolphins and monkeys makes a good day.  I would totally recommending going up the Mediterranean steps trail verses, going down. Walking down would easily lead to vertigo.  Plus the steps are old and uneven and there is a lot of loose gravel.  Take your camera, some water, and a snack.  All the climbing really works up an appetite.