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Mallorca : Coves del Drac

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Coves del Drac

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  • Known since ancient times, these limestone caves were mapped out by French geologist Edouard Martel in 1896. They are now one of Mallorca’s top attractions. Hundreds of people at a time make their way along the cavernous path, where artfully lit rock formations and lakes conjure up marvellous imagery. The name “Drac” means “dragon”, probably in reference to the mythical creature’s role as the fierce guardian of secret treasure.

    For more great caves (see Coves and Caves) More Ancient Places
Top 10 Features
  • 1. Garden

    As most visitors have to wait before their tour begins, the proprietors have thoughtfully created a beautiful garden by the entrance. Mediterranean trees and plants, such as olives, figs, violets and hibiscus provide the setting for striking displays of limestone – one piece even evokes the shape of a dragon. Gorgeous peacocks roam around.

  • 2. Four Chambers

    Visitors descend to the caves through the Luis Armand Chamber, part of the Frenchman’s Cave, which was discovered by Martel. The three other main caverns are called Black Cave, White Cave and Luis Salvador’s Cave. The path is smooth and even, and no guide speaks, so that visitors have the opportunity to contemplate the scale and beauty of the place in peace.

  • 3. Formations

    Thousands of stalactites (those hanging from above), stalagmites (those below), and columns (where the two meet) range from the finest needles to ponderous, monumental massifs. There are also deep ravines, at the bottom of which you can see crystalline, impossibly aquamarine and turquoise pools.

  • 4. Lighting

    The cave illuminations are the work of engineer Carlos Buigas. Crevices, chasms, planes and spaces are highlighted to maximize the effects of chiaroscuro and depth.

  • 5. Fanciful Figures

    Formations dubbed the “Inquisition Chamber” or “Ariadne’s Labyrinth” were so named in the Middle Ages; the “Buddha” and “Flag” speak of more modern imaginations.

  • 6. Subterranean Lakes

    Of the several subterranean lakes here, Lake Martel is one of the world’s largest, at 177 m (580 ft) long, with an average width of 30 m (98 ft). Its calm waters reflect the lighting effects of the performances.

  • 7. Performances

    Seated in an amphitheatre, in near pitch-darkness, the audience is regaled with a touching display at the end of the tour. Hypnotic lighting effects are accompanied by live music from a small chamber ensemble, floating by on a rowboat. Highlights include Albinoni’s Adagio , Pachelbel’s Canon and serene works by Bach, Handel, Chopin, Boccherini and others.

  • 8. Boat Ride

    As a delightful climax to the performance, visitors are offered boat rides on the lake – eight to a boat – steered by skilled gondoliers who employ an elegant figure-of-eight rowing style.

  • 9. Exit

    Visitors exit by foot past the Lake of the Grand Duchess of Tuscany and Chamber of the Columns to the Vestibule, which is a funnel-like tunnel leading back up to the surface.

  • 10. Acuàrio de Mallorca

    A short walk from the caves brings you to a surprisingly good aquarium. The lower floor has scores of exotic species; the upper floor is devoted to denizens of the Mediterranean.

Practical Information
Allow time to stroll around the garden and visit the aquarium either before or after your tour of the grottoes. A snack bar on-site sells sandwiches, olives and drinks. Otherwise, head to Portocristo for one of the terrace café-restaurants, such as Sassecador. Coves del Drac, Portocristo (also sign-posted as “Cuevas del Drach” from downtown) 971 847241 10am–5pm daily (9am–3pm Nov–Mar) tours once every hour adm €7.50 Acuàrio de Mallorca, C/Gambí, Portocristo 971 820971 10:30am– 6pm daily adm €5
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