VISIT THE CAVES

A GREAT day out for families.....however, avoid the high seasons if possible as they can be extremely busy!! There are only 5 or so caves you can visit with an official guide, though of course many hundred you can explore across the island. Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves) - Porto Cristo, Manacor, Mallorca Phone: +34 971 820 753 Address: Ctra Cuevas s/n 07680, Porto Cristo, Mallorca Email: info@cuevasdeldrach www.cuevasdeldrach.com One of the most impressive and magnificent cave systems on the island. Budding geologists and novices alike will not be disappointed with the spectacular stalactite formations and filigreed canopies that drip dramatically from the ceilings. The 1200m guided tour meanders 25m below surface through the four enormous inter-connected chambers culminating in an atmospheric classical concert on the beautifully illuminated subterranean lake. Discovered in the late 19th century, Lake Martel is considered to be the largest underground body of water in Europe, and the opportunity to float across it on a little wooden rowboat towards the exit is certainly a highlight of the one hour trip. Be sure not to miss a pit-stop in the nearby charming fishing village of Porto Cristo if you are in the area. Understandably, this popular attraction can be incredibly busy in high-season: up to 200 people can be present on any given tour. Ensure a smooth visit by booking the earliest or latest slots in advance online to avoid waiting in long queues on the day. Although the paths are smooth and well lit, surfaces may be uneven and there are many steps: wear good shoes and for those with children do note that strollers are not permitted along the route. Unlike many of the other caves in Mallorca, photography is allowed- though without the use of a flash or tripod. Opening Hours: Low Season 1st November - 13th March: 10.45am, 12 noon, 2pm, 3.30pm Closed 25th December and 1st January High Season 14th March - 31st October: 10am, 12 noon, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm Prices: Adults 15€ Children (3-12 years) 8€ Under 2years Free Cuevas de Arta-

Phone: +34 971 841 293 Address: Via de las cuevas, 0 s/n 07589 Canyamel, Capdepera, Mallorca Email: info@cuevasdearta.com Website: www.cuevasdearta.com Situated on the crest of a cliff overlooking the bay of Canyamel, visitors to the Cuevas de Arta are welcomed to the remote location with stunning ocean views. These spectacular and sizable caverns, approachable by car or boat, are often favored by those seeking a less busy tour than the Cuevas del Drach. The 40 minute guided adventure, offered in no less than four languages, includes viewings of the breathtaking Entrance Room, boasting to be of equal size to the nave of La Seu Cathedral in Palma. In addition, the infamous 22m tall stalagmite in the Queen’s Room is unforgettable and mightily impressive due to the fact that such formations grow at a rate of 0.2mm to 0.6mm per year. Magnificent and graceful stalagmites emerge dramatically from the ground throughout the galleries, conjuring up mysterious images of Heaven and Hell. Guests are encouraged at points to strike one of the many resonator columns or ‘cloches‘ to experience their incredible vibrations and submersive bell-like sounds. Children will be particularly entertained with historical stories of pirates, hermits and smugglers who once frequented the grottoes. At this site, there are no restrictions on photography. The route is known to be slightly more challenging than others, with as many as 400 steps to climb- and again, buggies are not permitted on the tour. Be sure to bring an extra layer with you, for the interior temperatures can be much cooler than felt outside in Mallorca’s blazing heat.

Opening Hours: November - March: 10am to 5pm April, May, June & October: 10am to 6pm July - September: 10am to 7pm Prices: Adults 14€ Children (7-12 years) 7€ Under 7 years Free Reduced entry rates are available for residents from November to March Boat Trips: Excursion from Font de sa Cala: 12€ (entrance aside) Excursion from Cala Ratjada: 15€ (entrance aside) Coves de Campanet Phone: +34 971 51 61 30 Address: Camí de Ses Coves, 07310 Campanet, Mallorca Email: info@covesdecampanet.com Website: www.covesdecampanet.com Instagram: covesdecampanet These caves are known to house the longest and thinnest Stalactites in Europe and many rave about the informative and educational guided tours on offer here. Despite being one of the smaller cave systems on the island, do not doubt the magnitude and splendor of the chambers inside. Due to the richness in their calcareous deposits, the white wax-like rock formations here seem particularly eerie, and it is no wonder that the visions have played muse to artists and poets alike. A particular favorite for scientists too, with the discovery of many fossils and a specifically local species of blind beetles buried amongst the rocks. The cavern exploration lasts for approximately 40 minutes and many find the leisurely 400m trail less demanding than other more commercialised cave trips in Mallorca. Tucked away in the Taramantua Mountains, the rural setting of these coves in Mount Sant Miquel is hard to beat for the spectacular and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. A popular destination for many hikers and cyclists who spend an easy hour or two on the cafe’s pretty vine-covered courtyard terrace to admire the breathtaking vistas. Opening Hours: Open all year round except Christmas Day and New Years’ Day Winter season: 10am to 5.30pm Summer season: 10am to 6.30pm Prices: Adults 14€ Children (4-12 years) 8€ Under 4 years Free

Coves de Genova

Phone: +34 971 402 387 Address: Carrer Barranc, 45, 07015, Palma de Mallorca Email: Website: www.covesdegenova.com Instagram: covesdegenova and restcovesgenova

If you find yourself situated in the Palma area looking for a gentle excursion within close proximity to the city, then these are the caves for you. Perfectly formed, and no less beautiful than the others, the majestic columns that have been naturally sculpted 36m below the ground are bound to amaze. Tour groups are generally much smaller here making for a more personal experience and essentially allowing for a hike at your own pace with the full attention of your knowledgeable guide. Be sure to combine your 30 minute trip with a meal at the popular on-site restaurant known locally for its Mallorcan fare and barbecued delights of grilled suckling meats, colcots and delicious fresh fish. Opening Hours: Winter 12 noon - 5pm Summer Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 am - 13:30 pm and 16:00 pm - 18:30 pm. Prices: Adults 10€ Children 5€ Free entry for clients of the restaurant