The Allure of Underground Exploration
Brief History and Significance
The Caves of Drach, known for their grandeur and historical significance, have been a beacon of fascination since their discovery in the late 19th century. They not only offer a glimpse into the geological past but also hold cultural importance, having been a muse for various artists and explorers.
Seasonal Insights: Spring vs. Summer vs. Fall vs. Winter
Each season paints the caves in a unique light. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploration. Summer’s allure lies in escaping the heat, while winter brings a tranquil solitude to the caves.
Weekday vs. Weekend Visits:
Weekdays promise a more intimate experience with minimal hustle, whereas weekends buzz with the energy of more explorers. Both offer distinct atmospheres; your choice depends on your preference for solitude or vibrancy.
Summary:
| Season | Time |
|---|---|
| 01 November to 10 March | 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. |
| 11 March to 31 October | 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. |
| December 25 and January 1 | CLOSED |
Optimal for serene exploration, the earliest morning tour at 10 a.m. and the final two-afternoon tours at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. typically offer a more peaceful experience. It’s important to note that these schedules may shift seasonally.
The tour lasts approximately one hour.
To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests and staff, as well as the preservation of the facilities, the following visitor guidelines are in place:
Admission rights are at the discretion of the management.
Compliance with staff directives is mandatory. Disruptive or offensive conduct may lead to denial of entry or immediate termination of the visit and access to the remaining areas.
Tickets must be presented and retained throughout the visit.
Bags and backpacks are subject to security checks at the cave entrance.
Large items or excessive baggage are not permitted inside the caves. Please consult with staff for guidance.
Consumption of food and beverages is not allowed inside the cave. Dispose of litter responsibly before entry.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is prohibited inside the caves.
Geological formations must not be touched or disturbed to preserve their integrity.
Pets are not allowed, with the exception of guide dogs.
The tour involves stairs, making pram and wheelchair access infeasible.
Visitors must stay with the group, following staff instructions and keeping to the designated path. Climbing over barriers, running, or blocking pathways is strictly forbidden.
Maintain a respectful volume and behavior to ensure a pleasant experience for all.
- Swimming is strictly prohibited within the cave.
- Surveillance cameras are in operation for security and safety purposes.
- Individuals with limited mobility:
The journey through the caves covers a distance of about 1,200 meters and involves staircases, with handrails provided for support. Regrettably, the cave pathways are not suitable for wheelchair users.
However, other amenities, like the bar and store, are fully accessible to wheelchairs. Accessible restrooms are available in the primary building adjacent to the store, and parking spaces are reserved for visitors with limited mobility.
Visitors with heart conditions or claustrophobia are advised to exercise caution regarding the tour. We recommend consulting with your healthcare provider if you have any medical concerns and informing our staff prior to embarking on the cave
- Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s appropriate and safe behavior throughout the premises.
Note: Prams are not feasible for the tour due to the presence of steps. For those with infants, carrying them in your arms or using a baby backpack is the recommended alternative.
Dress Code:
Shoes must be worn at all times.
Shirtless entry is not permitted.
Transparent clothing is not allowed.
Clothing that may impede movement or pose a hazard during the visit is prohibited.
Notes:
It’s advisable to opt for comfortable, flat-soled shoes for your visit, as special footwear isn’t required. The tour involves traversing approximately 1,200 meters, including steps, and you may encounter slightly slippery surfaces due to the cave’s natural humidity.
Enjoy a comfortable climate ranging from 17 to 20 degrees Celsius year-round within the caves, eliminating the need for heavy clothing.
Photography:
Non-flash photography and personal recordings are permitted, except during concerts.
Tripods, selfie sticks, and similar devices are not allowed.
Professional photography equipment is restricted to pre-authorized media personnel only.
Every tour offered includes a unique live concert experience and the choice to either sail across Lake Martel by boat or traverse it on foot; both options are available without any extra charge.
Adult ticket pricing applies to those aged 13 and above; child rates are for ages 3 to 12, and infants from 0 to 2 years. While online booking offers a 1 euro discount and can help skip long lines, it doesn’t include a guided tour. For a comprehensive experience, consider booking a complete guided tour.
Find more information on guided tours here.
- Phone reservations for tickets are not available.
- While tours are done in groups, they are self-guided rather than led by a guide.
- Be aware that if you miss your scheduled entry time, you forfeit your right to access without a refund.
- There’s no need to print your online tickets; simply download them to your mobile device for convenience.
- Guided tour ticket holders can proceed straight to the cave entrance at their booked time without stopping at the ticket office.
- The ticket will specify your tour time, and it’s advisable to arrive about 15 minutes early to comfortably make your way from the car park to the cave entrance, approximately 200 meters away.
- Tickets can be purchased up to 30 days in advance.
Numerous transport methods are available for your journey, including personal cars, public transit options like buses and taxis, as well as organized boat tours and agency-planned excursions.
GPS: Lat: 39º 32′ 7,72” Long: 3º 19′ 49”
For those requiring a taxi to reach the caves, information on available taxi services can be found here.
For car rental services to enhance your holiday or for a day trip in the area, you can find comprehensive rental information here.
Explore the Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach) with our recommended range of guided tours and ticket options.
For more information: Click here
Access to Porto Cristo’s port is feasible from select coastal locations. Once at the port, it’s just a 15-minute stroll to the Drach Caves.
There are several lakes in the caves, including Lake Martel, named after the speleologist who first crossed it, Edouard Alfred Martel. This is one of the biggest underground lakes in the world, 117 metres long, 30 metres wide, and between 4 and 12 metres deep.
Visitors are required to follow the instructions of our staff at all times and must not lag behind the group.
Touching the rock formations and leaving the path is prohibited.
Upon entry into the caves, the flag greets you as the initial point of interest.
Experience the Diana Baths, where the turquoise-blue pools offer an unparalleled visual feast.
Ceiling Details:
Remarkably, the ceiling formations grow at a rate of 1 cm per century.
A small lake, intricately carved by water infiltrations, enhances the cave’s beauty.
Mount Nevado stands as an awe-inspiring natural structure.
Experience the Magic of Music:
The Lake Martel Concert, a tradition since 1935, adds a unique auditory dimension to the visit.
Embark on an unforgettable boat ride – a journey of imagination and discovery.
Lake Martel, renowned as one of the vastest subterranean lakes on the globe, awaits your exploration.
Each tour features a captivating live concert, including the rendition of “Barcarolle” from “The Tales of Hoffmann” – a highlight of the performance. This classical piece, along with others, contributes to the enchanting atmosphere.
Concert Duration: This musical interlude spans about 10 minutes.
Musical Ensemble: The concert showcases the harmonious blend of a cello, harpsichord, and two violins.
Audience Etiquette: Maintaining silence is crucial to respect fellow visitors during the concert. Photography and filming are not allowed to preserve the experience’s integrity.
Visual Spectacle: Post-concert, visitors are treated to a light show, “Dawn on the Lake,” mimicking a sunrise over the water, enhancing the magical ambiance.
THE BOAT EXPERIENCE
After the concert concludes, heed the guidance of our staff for an option to traverse Lake Martel either by taking a serene boat journey or walking across the bridge.
CAFETERIA ON SITE
Relax and unwind at the on-site bar’s terrace, or opt for convenient takeaway options!
Available throughout the year, the bar offers an array of refreshments including both hot and cold beverages, alongside a selection of snacks like chips, nuggets, pizzas, and sandwiches, as well as desserts such as ice cream and cake, and healthy choices like fruit.
Tour duration?
Expect the tour to span about an hour, encompassing a concert that takes up roughly ten minutes of this time.
Guided tours?
They do not offer guided tours. Visitors partake in group tours, adhering to a staff-determined itinerary.
Individual tour?
Individual tours are not available; Their policy is to conduct tours in groups at pre-announced times.
Rainy weather?
The tours proceed seamlessly regardless of rain, ensuring a delightful visit regardless of weather conditions.
Parking Availability?
Their facility offers a spacious parking area at no cost for various vehicles including cars, buses, motorcycles, and bicycles, with dedicated spots for those with limited mobility.
Locker Services?
They do not provide locker facilities. Should you have luggage or sizable items that can’t be left in your accommodation or vehicle, our staff is available to offer guidance.
Credit Card Usage?
Credit cards are accepted at key locations within our premises, such as the ticket counter, bar, and store.
