Algeciras Outdoor Activities: Your Top 5 Guide
If you’re like me, then you know how much joy comes from getting outside and breathing in that fresh air. Algeciras, Spain, so, is one of those spots that totally understands this feeling. Nestled where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet, this port town provides some really amazing outdoor experiences. It’s almost a spot where you can ditch the city vibe and replace it with the great outdoors. We are going to run down my personal top five outdoor things to do in this cool, breezy corner of Spain. Are you ready? That should be awesome!
1. Hike the Parque Natural del Estrecho
First, if you like stunning views and a bit of a workout, then you might just need to lace up those boots and head to Parque Natural del Estrecho. I will say, very few places on earth let you see two continents at once, that being Europe and Africa. Very impressive sight! This natural park, that’s pretty close to Algeciras, offers a series of trails with views that are, like your jaw will drop, seriously! You know, they range from pretty easy strolls to steeper climbs, it’s almost like a hike to match everyone’s fitness. As I recall, the “Sendero Colada de la Costa” path is quite a nice, manageable one for an easy morning walk. You might want to keep an eye out for those old watchtowers, that used to guard the coast ages ago. A place of natural beauty and layered history is, like your soul will thank you!
I have to share, there was this one time I went during sunset, and, as a matter of fact, the way the light hit the Moroccan coastline? Absolutely magical! Bring water and, like your camera, so you’re all set. And just another hint: those coastal breezes can be deceptive. That just means layering is essential! Seriously, take a wander there! It really puts things into perspective.
2. Spend a day at Playa de Getares
Do you love beaches? Right, now, picture soft sand, clear blue waters, and the sound of waves. A perfect day? That, to be honest, is Playa de Getares, so I feel I must put that on the list. It is that perfect spot, you know, where you can just chill, soak up the sun, and take a swim. For anyone who enjoys water activities, it is very handy that you can do a bit of paddle boarding or even some windsurfing. This will definitely keep you busy.
Family days out here are an excellent idea, as there really are shallow waters that keep everyone safer, as well as little cafes dotted around. As a matter of fact, you can grab a bite if you’re hungry, without walking a mile. The locals like it for evening strolls. The sky colors and cooler temperatures are seriously lovely. Very beautiful, very quiet. Pro tip: arrive earlier during peak season, or, in other words, secure your spot. You would do that, wouldn’t you? Sunscreen is an obvious yes!
3. Go Whale Watching in the Strait of Gibraltar
Now, are you up for something truly memorable? A boat trip out into the Strait of Gibraltar might just, as a matter of fact, be the ticket. In other words, think about the opportunity to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, like that blows my mind! Quite a few companies offer trips that guide you through, explaining all you are looking at. This area is so, too it’s almost a migration hotspot, that the chances of spotting some of these majestic beings are pretty high. It can be quite emotional when one breaches the surface! Very lucky and very magical!
We were lucky once to get quite close to a pod of orcas. Like it’s just remarkable watching them swim, and jump around. Obviously, you do want to pick a company that’s respectful, ensuring these lovely beings are left safe. This helps preserve these animal’s safe habitats, but I’m just putting that there for thought! Warm layers and sunblock and those seasickness pills that are in your cupboard need to go with you. Right?
4. Explore Algeciras Bay by Kayak or Paddleboard
You’ve come here wanting a more active kind of day? Basically, you should get out there and explore Algeciras Bay from a kayak or a paddleboard! Doing that is great if you want a bit of exercise but want to sight-see as well. When you paddle you will see some totally cool stuff around the shoreline, with small, isolated beaches and spots to see all sorts of local wildlife. Rentals can easily be organized around Getares or other local beaches; honestly, a little lesson is available for first-timers. If you love photography like your camera loves you, you might be in luck to grab pictures when on the sea with beautiful natural sunlight, too. Just watch out, I lost a lens cap the other day, actually! Ha!
The thing that I always say is that I think seeing a city from the water, arguably, gives you an unusual point of view, just the very act of quietly gliding along is so, too it’s almost peaceful. There will be people nearby. Safety first as it were!
5. Cycle the Ruta del Río de la Miel
Finally, are you a cycling enthusiast? Because there are awesome routes available that bring to light the beauty of the area? Take the Ruta del Río de la Miel. Very much! This translates to the Honey River Route if you don’t read Spanish, very much, you know? The trip usually winds its way around, actually, around the banks of the river, heading up into the nearby hills. Anyway, you get those peaceful, shaded stretches of forest. This path is super if you enjoy escaping the urban areas and finding some tranquility amongst leafy environments. Also, stop at little spots on the banks, they have great picnic potential. Just saying. What goes better with a picnic than a little peace? Not a lot! Not unless your group of friends is boring! I was cycling a mountain bike and honestly, it ate those gravel parts of the path! Don’t attempt that on road tires!