The stunning natural beauty of Spain's incredible island of Mallorca called out to some 9.5 visitors in 2016 alone, and it's truly the perfect vacation destination whether you've got romance on the mind, need some fun time away with friends or want to treat the family to a special trip. There's so much to see and enjoy, and amazing outdoor recreational pursuits are abundant on the island. One very special activity awaits visitors in the form of the Cuevas del Drach, otherwise known as the Caves of Drach or the Dragon Caves, and you definitely won't want to let your vacation end without experiencing the beauty and wonder of this extraordinary cave system during your stay in Mallorca.
A Brief History of the Dragon Caves
It's believed that the caves were naturally formed as a result of the sheer force of the waters from the Mediterranean Sea way back in the Miocene period. And since nothing this spectacular was meant to stay hidden, these caves were first officially explored in 1880 by M.F. Will, a German cave explorer, and later in 1896 by Edouard Alfred Martel, a French scientist and explorer who has been credited as the founding father of the study of caves.
Mr. Will came away from the project after carefully mapping both the White and the Black cave, and Mr. Martel discovered the underground lake that now bears his name along with two additional caves. By 1922, steps were being taken to open up this unique cave system to the public, and electric lighting was installed, an easier-to-navigate entrance was built and walking paths and stairs were constructed. It was all ready by 1935, and it's open to visitors to this very day.
About the Caves
Visitors will find the Dragon Caves on the east side of the island in the town of Porto Cristo, and everyone is welcome to enjoy a one-hour visit any day of the year with the exception of Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Many incredible caves are found across Mallorca, but the Dragon Caves are among the most visited and considered to be the most remarkable of them all.
You'll discover an incredible cave system that includes four unique interconnected caves, which are known as the Black Cave, the White Cave, the Cave of Luis Salvador and the Cave of the French. There's a well-lighted pathway throughout for easy walking, and the visit includes a boat ride across Lake Martel, which is one of the largest underground lakes on the entire planet. You may expect to enjoy a pleasant temperature of 69 degrees all year long in the cave system, and these are a few of the highlights of the Dragon Caves experience.
- The Flag: Literally the first thing that you see when you enter the first cave is an amazing natural rock formation that perfectly mimics a full-size flag.
- Baths of Diana: This area boasts a small lake that is filled with the most beautiful turquoise waters that you've ever seen, and it gives the rocks the appearance of turquoise as well.
- The Living Roof: The roof of the caves is adorned with an abundance of large stalactites. They grow slow at a rate of less than a half an inch every 100 years, so their size gives you an idea of how ancient these caves actually are.
- The Snowcapped Mountain: This intricate rock formation boasts stalactites and stalagmites to create the perfect vision of a beautiful mountain covered in falling snow.
- The Boat Trip: You may paddle a boat across the clear waters of Lake Martel, or it's possible to walk across the bridge if you prefer.
- The Live Concert: At the end of your explorations, you'll be entertained with an amazing 10-minute classical music concert. All four musicians perform standing in a boat on Lake Martel, and the instruments used are two violins, a harpsichord and a cello. The acoustics inside of the cave produce a beautiful sound like you've never heard before.
Tours and Other Nearby Activities
While anyone may visit the Dragon Caves on their own, you may prefer to book a tour that offers a knowledgeable guide to walk you through the caves and answer any questions that you may have. The tour company of No Frills Excursions offers this option along with a tour of the nearby Mallorca Pearl Factory. If you're lodging with us here at Exceptional Stays, then we'll be happy to set up a private tour for your party before your scheduled arrival. Near the caves, you'll find lovely beaches, bars, cafes and the opportunity to enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride or rent a speedboat if you're looking for a full-day experience.
