For a peaceful afternoon stroll you can do no better than escape the cars and admire the botanical gardens.
Gibraltar's Botanical Gardens were originally laid out in 1816. The Lieutenant-Governor at the time General Sir George Don as well as obtaining voluntary contributions also apparently legalised a series of lotteries to pay for the cost of creating the gardens. The beautiful garden, in the General's words, "where the inhabitants might enjoy the air protected from the extreme heat of the sun." After falling into some disrepair it was revitalised in the 1970's for all future Gibraltarians to enjoy. With themed beds and both flora and fauna from all over the world the gardens contain some unique plants and trees. The gardens also boast a fantastic open air theatre. Another interesting item is the fact that the Alameda is on the list of official wedding venues. They are normally held in an area known as the 'Dell' which has a bridge overlooking it and a superb enclosed area for the ceremon. If you are coming to Gibraltar to get married you might be interested to know that it has become very popular to marry in the Dell and then hold the reception at the specacular Mons Calpe Suite located 412m above sea level with in the Cable Car Top Station complex. To find out more go to Mons Calpe Suite and www.gibraltargardens.gi
How to get there:
The Alameda Gardens are located next to Grand Parade which is where you will also find the Cable Car base station. You can find Grand Parade at the south end of Main Street, just continue walking past the Governors residence, the Convent , past Trafalgar Cementery and you can't miss it. Alternatively you can catch the no3 bus from the Frontier which will drop you off on Grand Parade. Just ask the bus drive and they should point you in the right direction. If you do plan to drive in (you are warned you might find yourself in a lengthy queue to enter and/or exit Gibraltar) and are looking for a car park you might be lucky and find a free space on Grand Parade.