The ancient Greeks believed the Rock of Gibraltar was one of the two Pillars of Hercules. Hercules was charged with stealing cattle from the fearsome giant Geryon as the 10th of his famous 12 Labors. The Pillars of Hercules are said to mark the spot where the hero pulled Europe and Africa apart to escape pursuit.
Today, the Rock is the most distinctive landmark in the tiny British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. It dominates one side of the Straits of Gibraltar, the narrow stretch of water that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. Though Gibraltar is only a little more than 2.25-square miles, it has its own currency, postage stamps, numerous media outlets, international airport, and plenty of Gibraltar hotel deals.
The largest attraction on Gibraltar is the Upper Rock Nature Preserve, which features fabulous views of the Straits as well as the opportunity to get up close and personal with the island's unique wildlife and plants. Visit the Apes' Den to see the famous "Barbary apes," the tailless monkeys that are the only true European simians. According to legend, the Barbary apes made their way to the island through an underground cave that once connected Gibraltar to Africa.
St. Michael's Cave is a network of caves that go on for many miles and was mentioned in Homer's "The Odyssey." Archeological evidence indicates that the caves were inhabited by prehistoric man as early as 40,000 B.C. Its largest grotto, Cathedral Cave, is often used as a live performance venue for concerts and other events. Since these performances often take place at night, it's smart to buy tickets and book hotels in Gibraltar beforehand.
On the other side of the island, facing Spain, you'll find the Great Siege Tunnels, artificial caves that were excavated by British soldiers during the 18th century when Spain and France tried to capture back Gibraltar. In Casemate Square, you can dine in restaurants, drink in bars, and find Gibraltar hotels and shops. In the summertime, live music serenades visitors sitting at the outside tables.
Gibraltar is a perfect stop for visitors traveling from southern Europe to northern Africa. It's easy to track down Gibraltar hotel packages and other cheap hotel deals in Gibraltar. Reservations for luxurious rooms with special discount rates are available on Expedia.com.au. Making reservations in advance lets you take advantage of top prices. A cheap Gibraltar hotel deal is the best opportunity to take a break from the hectic pace of traveling and relax for a couple of days.