After I would consider Mallorca, I’d image these glowing seas of crystal clear water and white sand seashores. I’d think about wandering by way of the winding cobblestone paths lined with vibrant bougainvillea blossoms as I explored timeless mountain villages like Deia and Valldemossa.
I’d dream about days soaking within the solar and evenings sipping on that well-known Spanish wine.
Now in case you ask me about Mallorca, the very first thing that pops into my thoughts is Cuevas del Drach (or Drach Caves). Although this underground treasure was fully off my radar earlier than I arrived, it’s now certainly one of my favourite locations in Spain.
Whereas I believed it is perhaps a bit touristy, spelunking by way of these fascinating caves was one of many highlights of my go to to Mallorca. This fully pure cave system is residence to one of many largest underwater lakes on the earth.
This was not solely an attention-grabbing and exquisite house to discover however the best way your complete expertise was orchestrated made it really magical.
In search of a very one-of-a-kind expertise? Right here’s what it’s best to learn about visiting the Cuevas del Drach in Mallorca.
About the Caves
Cuevas del Drach, or Coves del Drac as they’re identified in Catalan, actually means dragon caves. Situated in Manacor, close to Porto Cristo, the underground tour right here is certainly one of Mallorca’s greatest points of interest.
There are 4 areas, often known as the Black Cave, White Cave, Cave of Luis Salvador, and Cave of the French, that each one join collectively. The community of caves measures a complete of 4 kilometers (about two and a half miles) in size and 23 (75.5 ft) meters in depth.
The community of caves was shaped by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and is talked about in writings way back to 1338. Geologists consider that caves date again probably across the Miocene Epoch that occurred 5 to 23 million years in the past.
Martel Lake, one of many main claims to fame of the caves, is known as after French scientist and explorer, Édouard-Alfred Martel, who came over the caves again in 1896 (how is that for a welcoming present!).
The community had been mapped out just some years earlier by German cave explorer, M.F. Will, who found the White Cave in addition to the Black Cave throughout his expeditions.
About the Expertise
I spent 45 minutes strolling by way of the caves and was impressed at each flip.
The sheer variety of stalactites and stalagmites encircling the pathway is unbelievable. Spending the higher a part of an hour simply gawking on the formations was barely sufficient time.
The lighting options of the cave create an otherworldly magnificence, then the crystal clear lake on the coronary heart of all of it brings issues to a different degree. I’ve by no means been a lot into caves and wasn’t actually anticipating to be impressed…
However WOW.
The expertise ends in an underground amphitheater — at this level, no telephones or cameras are allowed they usually dim the lights, so that you’re surrounded by pitch black.
Then, the orchestra rows out on a ship taking part in classical music and also you sit again and soak within the stunning sights and sounds.
The live performance lasts for about quarter-hour and each single second is really unforgettable.
It seems like one thing out of a Disney film and I began crying, it was so stunning.
Whereas I might have by no means thought that going to an underground live performance can be one thing for my bucket record, the expertise was second to none. The acoustics of the caves are completely beautiful and this was the BEST cash spent.
Ticket Data
I’d suggest buying your tickets on the website earlier than you go. You’ll get a diminished on-line price of 15 euros versus 16 euros in case you purchase them on the door.
For teenagers from three to 12 years outdated, you may get tickets on-line for 8 euros or on the door for 9 euros. When you’ve received little ones underneath two years of age, they will enter at no cost.
Altogether, you spend a complete of 1 hour and fifteen minutes exploring.
General
I’ve received to confess that I believed the entire thing can be tacky however I’m not exaggerating once I say that I used to be in tears by the tip. I don’t know if I’ve ever loved a 15 euro expertise so fully and completely.
The complete attractive scene felt like one thing out of a fairy story.
As a observe, I visited throughout COVID so every part was scaled again, however nonetheless extraordinarily properly run. Usually they do rowboat excursions and also you go inside with a information, however that was all off throughout my go to. Nonetheless, I completely adored each minute of the tour.
Get tickets for Cuevas del Drach here!
Impressed to plan your individual Spanish sojourn? Try my information to 10 must-see spots in Spain that aren’t Barcelona.
Planning Tip: Unsure when to go e book your journey? Soar over to my rundown of the perfect occasions of yr to go to Spain.