Caves of Drach

The Coves del Drac run about twelve hundred metres under the east coast of Mallorca and were mapped in 1896 by the French speleologist Edouard Martel, who named the lake at their centre after himself: Lake Martel is about 115 metres long and up to 30 metres wide, one of the largest underground lakes in the world. The visit follows a set routine that has changed little in a century: a walk through lit chambers dense with stalactites, then seating in an amphitheatre by the lake where musicians in illuminated boats play a short classical programme on the water, followed by an optional boat crossing of the lake. Groups enter at fixed times and the whole thing takes about an hour.

What you actually see

• Lake Martel - one of the largest underground lakes in the world.
• The boat concert - musicians playing from illuminated boats on the water.
• The lit chambers - dense stalactite formations along the walking route.
• The lake crossing - an optional short boat ride after the concert.

When to go

Year-round; the cave keeps a constant temperature and works in any weather. Entry is by timed session and books out in summer and at holidays, so reserving ahead matters.

Honest expectations

The visit is tightly scheduled and moves in large groups, with limited time to look. Photography is prohibited during the concert. The route has many steps and is not accessible. Coach traffic is heavy.

Nearby

Porto Cristo's harbour is alongside; the Coves dels Hams are nearby and Manacor inland.