I allowed myself a few days off from sanding and varnishing Fintail, and headed down to Gibraltar for a break. I lived in Gib for 3 years when I was really young, but have only been back for a day trip since. So I was really interested to see how things have changed and if I could remember much. It was also a great chance to catch up with Ruth who was the doctor on the James Clark Ross last year, as she has just started working down there.
My timing of the trip was useless, as the cable car was closed for its annual maintainence. Still, I needed to try and get fit again, and walking up the rock a few times was a good start. This picture was taken from inside the siege tunnels, and looks out to the camp at north front, which is where I lived when I was younger.
Next stop was a trip to lower Saint Michaels Caves. The upper caves are on the normal tourist trail, and whilst very impressive, the cave network below is increadible. Luckily for me, a small group from the hopsital had organised a trip to the lower caves so I had the chance to explore the areas that are normally closed.
What I didn't realise before the trip was that it was going to involve scrambling around through small gaps, up ropes, in pools and lots of sliding on my backside. All very good fun, but jeans and a white t'shirt probably weren't the best choice of clothes!
The trip was great, with some fantastic formations to see, and loads of fun in the scrambling around to see them.
Having done the inside of the rock, the next trip took us on a nice walk up the rock, passing all the major sites. First stop was the Moorish Castle, which gave some great views out across Gib to La Linea.
Then the bit I had been waiting for, and finally a chance to see the apes that I remember so well from when I was younger.
They are just as cool as I hoped, and it was a great end to a flying visit. And don't worry, I have had a haircut since the photo was taken!
As for now, I am back in the UK for the final round of doctors and medicals. Then I'm back to Spain on Saturday to get on with my sanding and varnishing.
