Alameda Botanical Gardens

The Alameda Botanical Gardens sit at the southern end of Gibraltar town, at the base of the Rock. They are one of the most underrated places to spend time in Gibraltar. The gardens were established in 1816 under Governor General George Don, originally laid out as a recreational space for the British garrison, and have been maintained continuously ever since. The result is a mature, shaded park with 200-year-old trees, a diverse collection of subtropical and Mediterranean plants, and a calm atmosphere that stands in noticeable contrast to the busy streets of Main Street a few minutes' walk away. The plant collection is a serious botanical resource, not just an ornamental garden. Species from the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, South Africa, and the Americas grow here, many of them labelled. The mix reflects Gibraltar's unusual position as a biogeographical crossroads where Atlantic and Mediterranean species overlap. The Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society (GONHS) uses the gardens as part of its monitoring and education programmes. There is a small population of Barbary macaques that have made their way down from the Upper Rock and taken up semi-permanent residence in the lower gardens. Unlike the apes on the Upper Rock, these are not managed and their presence is unpredictable. You might see them on most visits but it is not guaranteed. The same rules apply: do not feed them, keep bags secure, do not make prolonged eye contact with dominant males. The gardens have a small cafe and picnic areas. Peacocks roam freely through the paths. The children's play area and open spaces make this an easy stop for families. Entry is free. The gardens are a natural starting or ending point if you plan to walk up through the Rock via the western paths, and the lower cable car station is a short walk from the main entrance. Allow an hour to walk through properly, or longer if you find a bench in the shade and have nowhere pressing to be.