Caves of Drach, Mallorca

About the Caves of Drach

The Caves of Drach are four connected caves near Porto Cristo, in the municipality of Manacor on Mallorca's east coast. They reach a depth of 25 metres and stretch for around 2.4 kilometres. They're known as the Black Cave, the White Cave, the Cave of Luis Salvador and the Cave of the French.

They're first mentioned in a letter of 1338. Seawater seeping through the limestone shaped them, a process some researchers think began millions of years ago. In 1896 French scientist Édouard-Alfred Martel, considered the father of speleology, discovered two more caves and a huge underground lake.

Martel Lake and the concert

The highlight is Martel Lake, about 115 metres long and 30 metres wide, one of the largest underground lakes in the world. Its water is clear and still, mirroring the stalactites above.

The visit ends with an unusual concert: visitors sit in tiers by the lake, the lights go down and illuminated boats glide out of the darkness carrying musicians playing classical music. Afterwards visitors can cross the lake by boat before walking back up to the surface.

What to see in the caves

• Stalactites and stalagmites — thousands of formations.
• Martel Lake — an underground lake like a mirror.
• The boat concert — classical music in the half-light.
• A boat crossing — over the lake after the concert.
• Lit chambers — different caves along the route.
• Porto Cristo — a small town with a bay nearby.

The route inside

The route through the caves covers about a kilometre of paths and steps. Soft, warm lighting picks out columns, curtains and needle-thin stalactites. In places the ceiling soars, in others the passage narrows, but the walk is easy.

Photography is usually not allowed, especially during the concert, and the rules are announced at the entrance. Paths can be damp and slippery, so wear shoes with good grip. Buggies can't manage the stairs.

Porto Cristo

The caves sit on the edge of Porto Cristo, a small town with a deep, narrow bay, a marina and a sandy beach. After the caves, stroll the waterfront and have lunch overlooking the boats; the east coast's turquoise coves are a short drive away.

Tips for your trip

The Caves of Drach pair well with a day on the east coast: afterwards, stroll round Porto Cristo's bay and promenade, then head for one of the nearby cove beaches. Other caves nearby include the Caves of Hams.

In season the entrance is busy with groups, so choose the first morning session or an evening one. If you drive, arrive early, as the car park fills up by midday.

With children, the caves are one of Mallorca's most memorable sights: an underground lake, boats and music in the dark. The route takes about an hour and suits children happy to walk.

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How to do it right

• Book a session online.
• Bring a layer; it's cool inside.
• Morning sessions are quieter.
• Photos usually not allowed.

Questions