Cape Tres Forcas

Cabo Tres Forcas

A dramatic rocky cape near Melilla with cliffs, a historic lighthouse and turquoise waters. It's a scenic escape for hiking and coastal views away from the urban center.

Things to do

• Visit the Cabo Tres Forcas lighthouse — This solitary 19th-century lighthouse marks the tip of the peninsula and offers sweeping views over the Alboran Sea.
• Hike the cliff-top trail — A rugged dirt track along the ridge winds past volcanic rock formations and drops to hidden coves.
• Swim at Calas del Cabo — Small turquoise-watered coves below the cliffs are ideal for a quiet swim away from Melilla's busier beaches.
• Watch the sunset over the strait — The exposed western point gives unobstructed views of the sun dropping toward the Rif mountains and the Mediterranean.
• Birdwatch along the cliffs — The cape's isolation makes it a resting point for migratory seabirds crossing between Africa and Europe.
• Photograph the volcanic rock formations — Dark basalt outcrops and eroded sea stacks create striking contrasts against the bright blue water.

Food to try

• Grilled sardines by the coast — Freshly caught sardines cooked over open coals are a simple staple enjoyed by fishermen and visitors near the shore.
• Moroccan mint tea — A sweet, strong mint tea often shared at small roadside stalls or with local fishermen taking a break.
• Fresh seafood tagine — Nearby coastal villages prepare tagines with the day's catch, simmered with tomatoes, olives, and preserved lemon.
• Melilla-style pastries — Before or after visiting the cape, travelers often pick up Spanish-Moroccan fusion pastries in Melilla, blending both culinary traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the military and fishing presence — Parts of the cape are used by local fishermen and occasionally patrolled, so visitors should stay on marked paths and be courteous.
• Bring your own supplies — There are no shops or restaurants directly at the cape, so pack water and food before heading out.
• Access can be rough — The road to the lighthouse is unpaved and best suited to a sturdy vehicle or a long hike, especially after rain.
• Cross-border awareness — Since the cape lies in Moroccan territory near the Spanish enclave of Melilla, travelers should carry proper identification when moving between zones.