On the eastern coast of Mallorca, the small fishing town of Porto Cristo guards one of Spain's most visited natural attractions. The Cuevas del Drach, or Dragon Caves, are a system of four interconnected caverns that descend 25 meters below the surface, extending more than 1,200 meters underground. Their star attraction is Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world.
The Four Caves
The system comprises four distinct caves: the Black Cave (Cueva Negra), the White Cave (Cueva Blanca), the Cave of Luis Salvador, and the Cave of the French. These names reflect the history of exploration, with early expeditions led by Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria in the 1880s and French speleologist Edouard-Alfred Martel in 1896.
Martel's expedition was particularly significant. He mapped the cave system in detail and discovered the massive underground lake that now bears his name. His meticulous documentation helped establish the caves as a major geological and tourist destination.
Lake Martel and the Concert Experience
Lake Martel stretches 177 meters long, 40 meters wide, and reaches depths of up to 12 meters. Its crystal-clear waters sit in near-total darkness, creating an otherworldly atmosphere when artificially illuminated during guided tours.
The highlight of every visit is the classical music concert performed on small boats that glide across the lake's surface. As the lights dim, musicians emerge from the darkness playing Chopin, Bach, and other classical pieces. The acoustics of the cavern amplify the music, creating an unforgettable experience. After the performance, visitors can take a short boat ride across the lake themselves.
This tradition has continued since the caves opened to the public in 1922, making it one of the longest-running underground concert series anywhere in the world.
Geological Formations
The caves were formed over millions of years through the gradual dissolution of Miocene-era limestone by rainwater saturated with carbon dioxide. As this mildly acidic water percolated through cracks, it carved out chambers and passages, leaving behind an extraordinary display of speleothems.
Visitors encounter towering stalagmites, delicate stalactites, flowing stone curtains, and rare helictites that seem to defy gravity. The formations continue to grow at a rate of roughly one centimeter every century, meaning many of the structures you see have been developing for hundreds of thousands of years.
The cave maintains a constant temperature of approximately 17-18 degrees Celsius and humidity near 80%, conditions that contribute to the ongoing formation of these natural sculptures.
Practical Information
Location
Ctra. Cuevas s/n, 07680 Porto Cristo, Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Getting There
Porto Cristo is approximately 65 km east of Palma de Mallorca. Drive via the Ma-15 motorway (about 1 hour). Public buses run from Manacor. Parking available near the cave entrance.
Admission
Adult tickets are approximately 16 EUR, children 8.50 EUR. Concert and boat ride included. Check the official website for seasonal hours and current pricing.
Tour Duration
Guided tours last approximately 1 hour. Tours run several times daily, with higher frequency in summer. The walking route covers about 1,200 meters and involves some steps.
Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour start time
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path can be slippery in places
- Bring a light jacket, as the cave stays around 17 degrees Celsius
- Photography without flash is permitted in most areas
- The walk involves some stairs and uneven surfaces, but is manageable for most visitors
- Combine your visit with a walk around Porto Cristo harbour and its beaches
What Else to See Nearby
Porto Cristo also offers the Coves dels Hams, another impressive cave system just 1 km away. The town itself has a pleasant harbour, several restaurants serving fresh seafood, and a nice beach for cooling off after your underground adventure.
Further along the coast, the tower of Manacor offers a glimpse into Mallorca's pearl industry and medieval heritage. Nature lovers can explore the nearby S'Albufera wetlands or take a boat trip along the coast.