Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach)
Carretera Cuevas, Porto Cristo, Majorca, 07680
This series of underground caves on Mallorca’s east coast is the island’s most impressive, and together comprise one of Europe’s largest cave complexes. The different chambers of the Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach) are home to rock formations such as stalactites and stalagmites—illuminated for striking effects—as well as the massive underwater Martel Lake, where classical music recitals take place.
The basics
The Caves of Drach are one of the most popular attractions on the island. Many visitors see them as part of a small-group tour or private day trip that includes transportation. Individually purchased entrance tickets include a specific time of visit. All tickets include a live classical music concert and a short boat trip on Lake Martel, a subterranean lake that’s about 558 feet (170 meters) long.
When booking a Caves of Drach tour, it’s possible to combine your visit to the caves with a tour of the Majorica Pearl Factory in the nearby city of Manacor. You can also opt to explore the fishing village of Porto Cristo.
Things to know before you go
The caves are a must-see for first-time visitors to Mallorca.
Photos and videos are prohibited during the concert.
Facilities at the caves include free parking, an ATM, a ticket office, and a public telephone.
Due to the natural features of the caves, the complex is not wheelchair accessible.
How to get there
The easiest way to visit the Caves of Drach is as part of a package tour, half-day or full-day trip. To visit on your own from Porto Cristo, take a local bus, which stops outside the caves. Due to the caves’ popularity, be sure to book a tour or tickets ahead of time, as Caves of Drach tickets can sell out.
When to get there
During high season (June to September) and on weekends, plan to visit mid-morning or late afternoon, when the caves are typically less crowded. Leave plenty of time to explore the vast cave network with a local guide, especially if you want to go for a boat ride on Lake Martel.
Things to do on Mallorca’s east coast
There are several options for activities on the east coast of Mallorca. In addition to visiting the caves, you can check out the area’s sandy beaches, go scuba diving off Porto Cristo, or take a glass-bottom boat tour. Alternatively, see nearby villages such as Cala Millor, Porto Colom, Cala Bona, and Sa Coma.
Ways to explore
Located close to the coastal town of Porto Cristo, the caves are widely accessible from around Mallorca thanks to a good coverage of day-trip options from the island’s key tourist towns. Most visitors stop at the Caves of Drach during a guided day trip, often in combination with other Mallorca sites such as the Caves of Hams (Cuevas dels Hams) and the Majorca Pearl Factory.
All visits include an hour-long guided tour that finishes at the lake for a short classical music recital. There are sometimes options to add on a boat ride on the lake.
Accessibility
The Caves of Drach are not wheelchair accessible. Be prepared for steep steps (fitted with a handrail) that lead down to the caves from the ground level.
Age limits
Children under 12 must be under adult supervision.
What to pack
Baby carrier if you have small kids, camera
What to wear
The caves’ lowest temperature is around 63°F (17°C), so wear a light cardigan or jacket to stay warm, as well as comfy shoes with good tread.
Not allowed
Flash photography, food in the caves, selfie sticks, strollers, swimming, touching the rock formations, tripods
Amenities
Bar, café, parking lot, gift shop, picnic area, restrooms by the cave entrance and exit, Wi-Fi zone on the bar terrace
Address
The caves are right in the middle of Mallorca’s east coast, and are walkable from Porto Cristo. If coming from further away, you can drive, take the bus, or grab a taxi.
Driving
From downtown Porto Cristo, follow Carretera de las Coves (Ma-4014) west, which will take you straight to the caves. Parking is free, and there are dedicated spaces for any visitors with reduced mobility.
Public transportation
The Caves of Drach attraction has its own bus stop, which is served by the 424, 425, 427, and 428 buses. Check the official Transports de les Illes Balears (TIB) website for details of routes and timings.
Best times to visit
For the quietest times, book either the first tour in the morning or the last one in the afternoon.
Best days to visit
Avoid the crowds by visiting the Caves of Drach on a weekday instead of a weekend.
Best months to visit
The caves have a mild temperature year-round, so there’s technically no bad time of year to visit. However, expect them to be busier during Mallorca’s peak summer season.
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