A Visit to The Caves of Porto Cristo

The caves are located on the eastern coast of the Island, just outside the town of Porto Cristo and are very easy to locate. The ‘Cuevas del Drach’ are such a large attraction that they are signposted from almost anywhere within about 5km of the town, whilst the 'Cuevas del Hams' are found on the the Ma-4020 as you drive in from Manacor and the signs at the entrance are certainly difficult to miss!

One doesn’t need to be especially keen on geology to appreciate the magnificence of these caves. The fact that such spaces exist in the ground below us is impressive enough. When you then consider that stalactite growth is at a rate of 1cm every 30 years, you can begin to understand just how special these spaces are.

Both sites were discovered around the turn of the 20th century and have each been open to the public for around 90 years. In that time, they have become the subject matter for many great artistic figures, such as author Jules Verne, as a result of their enchanted mystery. Both still honour this artistic heritage with classical musical performances set around their respective lakes.

It must be said that the ‘Cuevas del Drach’ have earned their reputation for a reason. Compared with the ‘Cuevas del Hams’ they are vastly superior in magnitude and impact, with the Martel lake being a particular highlight. The intrigue of the Hams caves comes in the formations found within and are better suited to the avid cave enthusiast - the word Hams in Catalan means fishhooks and the caves take their name from the hook shaped stalactites found within. For those looking to see the caves but only wishing to make one visit, I would certainly recommend the ‘Cuevas del Drach’.

Visits to both sets of caves are available by guided tour only. These tours take place hourly throughout the day with tickets costing €14,50 for adults, €7,50 for children (12 and under) and free for infants (2 and under) at the Cuevas del Drach. At the Cuevas del Hams, tickets cost €21 for adults with children and residents half price.  The sites offer ample free parking for visitors and many coach tours visit the caves also. The caves’ own websites offer further visitor information; links can be found here Cuevas del Hams / Cuevas del Drachs. One thing worth noting is that the caves are not the easiest places to visit with small children and there are a lot of steps involved, dark enclosed spaces and slippery floors.

Following a visit, it is worth taking the time to wonder into the town of Porto Cristo itself. The town is centred on a large and very attractive port, home to a wide variety of vessels from small fishing boats to luxury yachts.  The portside is lined with bars and restaurants providing anything your taste buds might desire and which offer a very pleasant setting for lunch, some early evening tapas or a late night drink. There is a small but pretty beach for the kids, a large number of traditional craft shops for a spot of shopping and the port also offers sea trips on a glass bottomed boat, great for exploring the depths of the Mediterranean.