The Best Hotels in Gibraltar
Gibraltar is tiny, and dominated by the Nature Reserve. It’s a hub for visitors seeking a taste of Britain on the southernmost tip of Spain; year-round sunshine, dolphin spotting and accessible shipwrecks are a few highlights of a visit. Piercing the skyline, the Rock of Gibraltar greets you as you approach the peninsula. It’s home to wild monkeys, and you can spot these furry creatures as you climb the Mediterranean Steps to O’Hara’s Battery before descending into the city to explore the medieval Moorish Castle and St Michael’s Cave. For somewhere to stay, try our pick of the best hotels and places to stay in Gibraltar.
Luxury Yacht Hotel, for a deluxe boat stay
Hotel
Moored just off Admiral’s Walk, near the airport runway and just minutes from Line Wall Road, this aptly named hotel is indeed a luxury yacht. Two deluxe ensuite staterooms – containing plush beds and mirrored wooden panelling – join a shared saloon for relaxing and a terrace for sunbathing. Mod cons abound, from Bose surround sound to games consoles. Once you’ve gained your sea legs, you may wish to venture onto dry land for the numerous nearby restaurants.
Holiday Inn Express Gibraltar, for proximity to attractions and the airport
Hotel
In a place where most hotels offer easy access to the main attractions – the fabled Rock of Gibraltar, the Siege Tunnels, Gibraltar Cable Car, St Michael’s Cave and more – this one distinguishes itself with proximity to the airport as well. Besides the contemporary decor of the rooms – with navy blue statement walls and crimson armchairs – perks include a complimentary buffet breakfast and blackout shades for a good night’s sleep.
Ohtels Campo de Gibraltar, for a functional stay in La Línea de la Concepción
Hotel
Looking for Gibraltar hotels on a budget? Ohtels offers an affordable stay in La Línea de la Concepción, next to the airport and a 15-minute walk from the Cradle of History monument. Rooms are functional; pared back, but comfortable. Start your day with a dip in the pool before a hearty breakfast at La Línea restaurant (which has excellent gluten-free options). Alcaidesa Marina is a two-minute stroll away.
The Eliott, for a rooftop restaurant in Gibraltar's old town
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Located in the heart of Gibraltar’s old town, the Eliott offers a stylish, convenient base from which to explore the peninsula. The chic rooms include juliet balconies, rainfall showers and Paul Costelloe toiletries as standard. A real draw is the spectacular eighth-floor pool, dotted with sun loungers. Come sunset, make your way to the rooftop Rock Salt bistro with views over the Straits of Gibraltar – start with spicy king prawn tapas before tucking into a juicy rib eye steak.
Sunborn Gibraltar, for an excellent on-site spa
Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel, Spa Hotel, Hotel
Proof that Gibraltar hotels really can float your boat, Sunborn offers five-star accommodation spread out over six decks, ranging from the standard king double to fabulous suites and two-bedroom apartments with views of the marina and Bay of Algeciras. Facilities are impressive: there’s a top-deck restaurant where you can enjoy dishes from a North African and Mediterranean menu, while the Aqua Bar is the perfect place for a sunset cocktail or a dip in the plunge pool. An extensive spa, fitness centre and casino complete the luxury offering. The bars and restaurants of Ocean Village are about 30 seconds from your bedroom, while the old town is within a 10-minute walk.
The Caleta Hotel, for superb Gibraltar panoramas
Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel, Hotel
The four-star Caleta is located in the charming former fishing community of Catalan Bay, on the sparsely populated east side of the Rock. The rooms – quirkily kitted out with dental, sewing and shoeshine kits – offer either views of the Rock itself or the Mediterranean. The range of facilities means you’re spoilt for choice: the Catalan Bar and Lounge is a smart chill-out space, while in-house eateries include the Italian Nuno’s and the Bay View Bistro, which offers some of the most stunning panoramas in Gibraltar. If you fancy hitting the beach, just take the steps down from the pool area.
Nina Zietman and Georgia Platman contributed additional reporting to this article.