Gibraltar Cable Car
Gibraltar Cable Car – The Ride Of A Lifetime
Even if you don't like heights you may want to make an exception and conquer your fears, because a ride in the Gibraltar Cable Car is one of the most incredible experiences on the Rock and is one of the must do Gibraltar attractions. The exhilarating ride carries you majestically to a height of 412 metres above sea level from which you get some incredible views of the surrounding area.
Brief history
The cable car was built and installed by a Swiss cable car manufacturer, Von Roll Limited, and first opened to the public in 1966, and has since then seen several upgrades.
The cars in operation today were purchased in 1986 when an extensive refurbishment took place. One of the existing cable cars is currently on view in the waiting area. Two new cables cars were installed with a capacity to carry 30 people up to the Top Station in around 8 minutes. .
Safety first
During the refurbishment the control centre was upgraded to a fully automated system. However, there is always a member of staff present in each cabin and in the control room to override the automation if necessary. There is also direct communication between each cabin and the control room,
Safety is taken very seriously, and as well as in house engineers who check the cable car on a daily basis, a team from the Swiss company, Von Roll, come out each year to inspect it's entire electrical and mechanical system.
Experience the ride
The ride itself takes around 8-10 minutes with a possible stop at the Apes Den or Middle Station. As it's name suggests, this is an area where you are likely to come face to face with some of Gibraltar's infamous wild apes. However, it is worth noting at this point that during April to September inclusive, the Gibraltar Cable Car does not stop at Apes Den. If you want to get out to stroll around, then it is usually recommended that you do this on the way down.
Multimedia Guide
On arrival at the top station you can enjoy the views, take some photos and grab a drink or a snack. Don't forget to pick up your hand held multimedia unit, which guides you at your own pace around the terraces whilst imparting interesting facts about the Rock's fascinating history. You will be asked to leave some form of ID when picking up your multimedia unit, but this will be returned to you when you give back the unit. Languages currently available include English, Spanish, German, French, Swedish, Italian and Portuguese.
Top Station
2007 saw an extensive renovation take place to the top station as work began, starting with a souvenir shop and the indoor viewing and eating area. Currently the top station facilities include:
- A self service cafeteria
- Gift shop
- Bar
- Toilets and baby changing facilities
- Viewing terraces
- Access to the nature reserve
Meet the gang
Don't be surprised if you are met by a group of mischievous apes, eager to greet you as you alight from the cabin. They're simply itching to put on a performance of entertaining acrobatics. Most visitors are surprised at the amount of freedom that the apes have and a photo shoot is a must. Be warned, however, that although they are happy to have their picture taken, they are wild creatures and will bite if they feel under threat.
Magnificent views
From the top of the Rock you can look down on to the town itself; look over the Costa Del Sol northwards to the Sierra Nevada; look east over the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, and south across the Straits of Gibraltar to Africa and the Rif Mountains. In fact, you'll see 2 countries, 3 continents, and a meeting of 2 great bodies of water. Pretty impressive to say the least!
Opening hours and prices
The Gibraltar Cable Car operates continuously throughout the day, seven days a week as follows:
1st April – 31st October
0930 – 1915 with the last car coming down at 1945
1st November - 31st March
0930- 1715 each day with the last car coming down at 1745.
At the time of writing the prices are adults: single ticket £12.75, return ticket £25.00; children: single ticket £7.30, return ticket £7.80. Groups of over 20 people can negotiate a special rate.
Without doubt, if you travel to Gibraltar then you really must take a ride on the cable car, you'll be so glad you did.
Photos By Leo Hayes
Check out the Gibraltar Cable Car Video, taken:
Created by Gold Productions Studios
