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Calpe Lounge Gibraltar International Airport (GIB)
Flying into or out of GIB is a fantastic experience but it’s even better to watch it from ground level.
The runway crosses the main road into the centre of Gibraltar from the Spanish border. For take-off and landing, traffic lights and barriers stop all the cars and pedestrians so that the aircraft can cross the road.
It’s a great place to watch take-offs and landings, and so is the Calpe Lounge. The runway is right in front of The Rock, and you can take a drink out onto the viewing terrace with your camera and be right on top of the action, including occasional military aircraft.
I rate it 4 out of 5, not because of amazing food or luxurious showers, but because it’s a very relaxing place and the views are brilliant. If you’re into aviation, you can happily spend an hour or two watching the activities in the air and on the ground.
Even if you’re not into watching aircraft, the view of the rock is spectacular, especially if you’re there near sunset on a warm day, with a glass of wine in your hand…. Hold on, I’m just off to book a flight to Gibraltar.
Views from the Calpe Lounge terrace
Facilities
You can tell by the presence of Monarch aircraft that these photos were taken on my first visit to the Calpe Lounge, but the lounge itself is still the same. And it’s really very nice.
It’s very spacious and, except during the peak summer period of June to August, usually very quiet. There aren’t that many flights, and because people can get great views from outside the airport, you will probably find the lounge has plenty of space.
During the middle of UK school summer holidays, you may well find the lounge is full and rejecting Priority Pass holders.
The design and layout are very visually pleasing, and the end wall is all glass, which lets in loads of natural light.
Head out onto the terrace, and although it might be breezy you do get an unimpeded view of the activity out on the apron.
What you can’t see is the road crossing or the end of the runway that juts out into the harbour, but you will have spent some time out there already.
There are toilets inside the lounge, information screens, and a decent selection of newspapers.
WIFI seemed fast and stable.
Seating
The variety of tub chairs and arm chairs are comfy enough.
Plenty of tables, although not enough power points. You might have to hunt around for a spare socket.
Dining
Considering the size, it’s not bad. There is fruit and crisps and crackers, and a supply of sandwiches that was regularly replenished.
A bean-to-cup coffee machine, plenty of cold drinks, an ice bucket, a standard selection of spirits, and small bottles of wine.
Do take note of this. There won’t be any hot food, there will be crisps and sandwiches. When the lounge is quiet and you’re enjoying the view, and you have a glass of wine, and you’re happy, you’ll enjoy it.
Opening times
09:00 – 21:00 daily
Hours may vary according to flight schedules.
Location
Gibraltar airport is tiny so you won’t have any trouble finding the lounge. Hint: it’s on the right.
Priority Pass
Priority Pass includes the Calpe Lounge.
Priority Pass is brilliant value if you travel regularly. The “standard plus” membership costs £189 and gives you 10 free lounge visits, but discounts on this price are often available.
Look out for our review of Priority Pass and all the latest discounts.
You can also get unlimited lounge visits through Priority Pass, worth £339, as one of the benefits of the American Express Platinum card.
Email info [at] toseethe.world if you’d like a referral code for 35000 bonus Amex Membership Rewards (MR) points worth 35000 Avios or other air miles.
The Priority Pass page for the Calpe lounge is here – Priority Pass – Calpe Lounge
FAQ
Is there a lounge at Gibraltar airport?
Yes, the Calpe Lounge is part of Priority Pass.
What time is the Gibraltar airport lounge open?
09:00 to 21:00, subject to seasonal flight schedule variation.
