Map of Gibraltar to Denier

We begin by leaving Gibraltar, passing the iconic Rock of Gibraltar as we head eastward into the calm waters of the Costa del Sol. The first stop is Estepona, a charming seaside town that has retained much of its traditional Andalusian character. Estepona’s whitewashed streets are lined with flower-filled balconies, and its lively marina offers excellent seafood restaurants and easy access to beautiful beaches. A visit to the town’s Plaza de las Flores and a walk along its seafront promenade are not to be missed.

Continuing along the coast, we arrive at Marbella, known for its luxury yachts, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. However, beyond the glamour of Puerto Banús, Marbella’s old town offers a more traditional experience with its cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and the charming Plaza de los Naranjos, filled with orange trees and outdoor cafés. After enjoying Marbella’s mix of modern luxury and old-world charm, we sail on to Fuengirola and Benalmádena, two bustling resort towns with long sandy beaches and marinas that offer excellent facilities for visiting sailors.

As we move further east, the landscape begins to change. We leave behind the busy Costa del Sol and enter the more rugged and less developed Costa Tropical. Our next stop is Motril, a working port with a strong fishing heritage and easy access to the Alpujarras mountains. Motril’s marina is a peaceful spot to rest, and the town is known for its authentic tapas bars and proximity to Granada’s famous Alhambra Palace for those who wish to venture inland.

From Motril, we continue toward Almerimar, one of the largest marinas in the region, known for its excellent facilities and relaxed atmosphere. Almerimar is a popular stop for sailors making their way up or down the Mediterranean, with a wide range of services and a lively community of liveaboard cruisers. Just a short distance from Almerimar, we reach Almería, a historic city with a Moorish past. Its imposing Alcazaba fortress, perched high above the city, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into Andalusia’s rich history.

Sailing further along the coast, we come to Garrucha, a traditional fishing town famous for its red prawns, considered some of the best in Spain. Garrucha’s marina is well-situated for a relaxing stop, with easy access to local markets and seafood restaurants. After enjoying the tranquil charm of Garrucha, we continue on to Cartagena, a major highlight of this leg. Cartagena is a city steeped in history, with ancient Roman ruins, a well-preserved amphitheater, and a fascinating maritime museum. The harbor is one of the best-protected in the Mediterranean, making it a favorite among sailors.

After Cartagena, we head toward the Mar Menor, a unique coastal lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by a narrow sandbar known as La Manga. The Mar Menor is a haven for watersports enthusiasts, with warm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. The area’s sheltered anchorages and peaceful atmosphere make it an excellent place to pause and enjoy the natural surroundings.

From the Mar Menor, we sail north past Torrevieja, a lively coastal town known for its salt lakes and vibrant waterfront. Torrevieja’s marina is a popular stop, with plenty of amenities and a bustling town center nearby. Continuing up the Costa Blanca, we reach Alicante, a vibrant city with a mix of modern energy and historic charm. Alicante’s palm-lined Explanada de España, its impressive Santa Bárbara Castle, and the lively waterfront make it an exciting stop on this part of the voyage.

The final leg of this stage takes us to Dénia, a beautiful seaside town known for its impressive castle overlooking the marina and its proximity to the Montgó Natural Park. Dénia’s old town is filled with charming streets, traditional restaurants, and artisan shops. The marina is a hub for sailors heading to the Balearic Islands, making it an ideal spot to relax and plan the next stage of the journey.