Cap de Garde at a glance
A rocky spur at the northeastern end of the Edough massif, Cap de Garde, or Ras el Hamra, the "red cape", shelters Annaba bay from wind and swell. This natural protection is what allowed the ancient port of Hippo to develop. Marble quarried from its rocks was even used to decorate the forum of the Roman city.
The Ras el Hamra lighthouse
Built in 1884, the Cap de Garde lighthouse is a 14-meter tower perched on top of the cliffs: thanks to this position, its light shines 143 meters above the sea and reaches up to 30 nautical miles, more than 50 km. An emblematic Annaba landmark, it guides sailors and walkers alike.
What to do at Cap de Garde
- Admire Annaba bay, from the city to the Seybouse plains, from around the lighthouse.
- Walk along the cliffs and watch ships entering the port.
- Swim at Ain Achir, the big beach at the foot of the cape, or at Belvédère, a little earlier on the corniche (see our guide to Annaba beaches).
- Have a fish lunch at one of the restaurants along the cape road.
- Wait for the end of the day, when golden light wraps the bay and the lighthouse comes on.
How to get to Cap de Garde
From central Annaba, follow the corniche north: the road passes Saint-Cloud, Chapuis, La Caroube, Belvédère and Ain Achir before reaching the cape, about 10 km (15 minutes) away. From Rabah Bitat Airport, allow 24 km and 25 minutes. Taxis serve the corniche, but renting a car at Annaba Airport lets you stop at every viewpoint and continue up into the hills.
When to go
Late afternoon offers the best light over the bay. In summer, weekends are very busy on the corniche, so come on a weekday or early in the morning to enjoy the calm. In winter, the wind can blow hard on the headland, so dress accordingly.
Practical tips
- Keep away from the cliff edges, especially in strong wind and with children.
- Closed shoes for walking on rocky paths.
- Limited parking near the lighthouse on busy days: arrive early.
- Bring water in summer, as shade is scarce on the headland.
Combining Cap de Garde with other visits
After the cape, climb through the forest to Seraidi, at 850 meters, or head down to the wild Djenane El Bey cove. In town, the Saint Augustine Basilica, the ruins of Hippo and the Sidi Bou Merouane mosque round off the day. All our ideas are gathered in the complete Annaba guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cap de Garde?
Cap de Garde, or Ras el Hamra, is north of Annaba at the end of the corniche, about 10 km from the city center, a 15-minute drive.
Can you visit the Cap de Garde lighthouse?
The lighthouse is a maritime signaling facility and access to the tower is not guaranteed. Its surroundings, however, offer a remarkable panorama over the bay.
When was the Cap de Garde lighthouse built?
The current lighthouse dates from 1884. Its tower is 14 meters tall and its light, 143 meters above the sea, reaches about 30 nautical miles.
Which beaches are near Cap de Garde?
Ain Achir, a large beach at the foot of the cape, and Belvédère, a little earlier on the corniche. Saint-Cloud, Chapuis and La Caroube are closer to the center.
When is the best time to go to Cap de Garde?
Late afternoon, for the light over the bay and the lighthouse coming on. In summer, choose a weekday or the morning to avoid the crowds.
