Today we’re introducing you to one of Mallorca’s great natural treasures: the Cova des Coloms, the “cave of the doves”. It’s a sea cave on the island’s east coast, in the municipality of Manacor, very close to Cala Varques and between Porto Cristo and Portocolom. Inside, lakes and galleries filled with stalactites and stalagmites follow one after another, in a setting that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
In this article from ROIG Mobility & Experiences, we tell you how to get there, what to expect inside, and how to prepare so your visit is safe and memorable. And remember, with our rent a car in Mallorca service, you can discover this and many other secrets hidden across the island.
How to get to the Cova des Coloms: a guide to finding this hidden gem
The Cova des Coloms is one of Mallorca’s hidden wonders, and part of its magic lies in the fact that you can’t drive right up to it. It sits in the cliffs around Cala Varques, an unspoilt cove within the protected area of the Cales Verges de Manacor. The cave can only be reached from the sea, by swimming or by kayak.
The first step is to drive to the area:
- From Palma: take the Ma-15 motorway towards Manacor and follow the signs for Porto Cristo. Once on the coast, continue along the Ma-4014, the road linking Porto Cristo with Portocolom and Calas de Mallorca.
- From Manacor: follow the signs for Porto Cristo and, from there, take the Ma-4014 heading south.
Bear in mind that Cala Varques doesn’t have a designated car park. The easiest option is to leave your car in Cala Romántica, where parking is straightforward, and carry on along the coastal path on foot, which takes roughly an hour. It’s a short hiking route in Mallorca through Mediterranean woodland and clifftops. Wear closed-toe shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
Once in the area, there are several ways to reach the cave:
- By kayak: guided kayak routes leave from Cala Romántica and explore the sea caves of Cala Varques, including the Cova des Coloms, whenever sea conditions allow.
- Swimming, with a guide: there are also sea caving excursions. These involve a walk of around 40 minutes to Cala Falcó, followed by a swim of about 200 m to the cave entrance.
- By boat: boat trips depart from Porto Cristo and follow the coastline of Mallorca’s Levante region as far as Cala Varques, stopping at natural caves along the way.
At ROIG, we offer a car rental service in Mallorca so you can explore the island at your own pace. If you’re staying on the east coast, you’ll find our car rental office in Calas de Mallorca close by, as well as those in Portocolom and Cala d’Or. If you prefer, you can also rely on our transfer service in Mallorca or a chauffeur-driven car in Mallorca. Choose the option that suits you best and enjoy a unique experience.
Adventure in Cova des Coloms: What to expect inside
Cova des Coloms is one of the must-see attractions in Mallorca. Venturing inside is a thrilling blend of adventure, natural beauty, and mystery. As you approach the entrance, you’ll be greeted by towering limestone walls, sculpted over centuries by wind and water. From there, you’ll step into an underground realm filled with incredible natural formations.
The entrance offers a sweeping view of the cave, framed by a striking natural arch. This feature is one of the cave’s most iconic, making it a favourite photo spot before you begin exploring.
Inside, the cave is divided into several galleries and chambers—some with towering ceilings and vaulted spaces, while others are more narrow and intimate. You’ll encounter stunning stalactites and stalagmites, formed over time by mineral-rich water filtering through the rock.
Adding to the cave’s allure are its small underground lakes, which lend a magical, almost otherworldly feel to the experience. Simply breathtaking!
Safety Tips: How to prepare for exploring Cova des Coloms
To have a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s important to be well-prepared and follow a few essential safety tips. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your exploration of Cova des Coloms is both safe and fun:
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp: The cave’s interior can be very dark, so pack a flashlight or headlamp with fully charged batteries to illuminate your path and prevent accidents.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Opt for non-slip, sturdy shoes like hiking boots or trekking shoes. The cave floor is often slippery and uneven, so good traction is essential.
- Dress comfortably: Choose comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty, as the cave may be damp and muddy. Avoid delicate fabrics that could be easily damaged.
- Consider your health: If you have conditions like claustrophobia or respiratory issues, think carefully about whether cave exploration is suitable for you, as the environment can be quite different from the outside.
- Respect the formations: Avoid touching the stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations. Human contact can damage these delicate structures and disrupt the cave’s ecosystem.
Swimming in Cova des Coloms: An underwater paradise in Mallorca
Swimming in Cova des Coloms is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Mallorca. This sea cave is famous for its crystal-clear underground waters, making it a true underwater paradise. The water offers exceptional visibility, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the seabed.
The cave’s walls and floor feature unique rock formations that reflect beautifully in the water—the interplay of light and shadow creating mesmerising visual effects.
For the best experience, it’s recommended to bring snorkel gear to explore the underwater world more thoroughly. Fins can also help you move more easily through the water.
Although Cova des Coloms is generally safe for swimming, it’s important to stay aware of the water conditions and follow any local advice. The currents are typically mild, but it’s always wise to check the conditions before entering.
Take advantage of our car rental deals in Mallorca to explore the island and discover incredible spots like Cova des Coloms. Contact us today!