Tangier is considered a gateway connecting Europe and Africa. Although it is Morocco’s second most important industrial center after Casablanca, its economy relies heavily on tourism. We spent a day here visiting Cap Spartel, Caves of Hercules, enjoying the view of medina and Atlantic ocean from a hill. If you have more than a day to spare, you should visit Tangier’s medina, kasbah, and the souks.
Cap Spartel – is the location where the Atlantic Ocean and The Mediterranean Sea meet. Since it was a clear day, we could almost see the Spanish coast. There is a walking track that leads to the water. We spent some time here enjoying the view and watching the sunset. We also stopped by a beautiful lighthouse that was within walking distance.
Caves of Hercules – is an archaeological cave that is part natural and part man-made. The natural part was formed by waves of Atlantic Ocean while the man-made part was used by Berber people to cut stone wheels from the walls. The cave has two openings, one to the sea and one to land. The sea opening is known as The Map of Africa. It is believed that the Phoenicians created the sea opening, which is in the shape of Africa when looked at from the sea.
Tangier Overlook – Our driver took us through some backroads up a hill to get a view of the city as well as the Atlantic Ocean.
Tangier Marina Bay – Our Hotel was strategically located across Marina Bay and we had a gorgeous view of the marina from our room. We also went on a refreshing early morning walk along the waterfront to the northeastern corner of Tangier’s medina, which has the ruins of Borj Dar El Baroud and a portion of Tangier city wall. This used to be a military fortification.
We were on our way to Chefchaouen by mid afternoon.