Can you go rock climbing in Gibraltar?

Short answer

Climbing on cliffs in the Gibraltar Nature Reserve needs the Government's prior written consent, and climbers' guides report that most of the Rock is off limits. For most visitors the practical option is the free public climbing wall at Bayside Sports Complex.

Detailed answer

Under the Gibraltar Nature Reserve regulations, no one may climb, or use climbing equipment on, any cliff in the Reserve without the prior written consent of the Authority, meaning the Government or a body it appoints. Breaking the regulations is a criminal offence punishable by a fine.

Climber-run websites such as theCrag and Mountain Project say most of the exposed limestone is off limits. They record a small number of spots, mainly deep-water soloing on the east side, bouldering at the Med Caves and a sport route at Mosque Face, and recommend going with a local guide.

Indoors, the Gibraltar Sports and Leisure Authority runs a 6-metre climbing wall at Bayside Sports Complex on Bayside Road. It is free, takes up to 15 climbers at a time and is open to the public from 09:00 to 22:45, Monday to Sunday. Bookings are made one day ahead, and on Fridays you can book for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The person booking must have completed an induction. The booking office is on +350 200 78409.

A bouldering wall, ROCK Boulder Park, opened at King's Bastion Leisure Centre on Wednesday 30 June 2021. Check locally whether it is still operating before you go.