Cova des Coloms
A colossal natural cave on Menorca, famed for its towering height and ancient Talayotic burial site history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Cova des Coloms
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal natural cave on Menorca, famed for its towering height and ancient Talayotic burial site history.
"The hike is challenging but the cave's sheer scale and natural light make it absolutely worth the effort."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path can be rocky and uneven; good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable visit.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the trail, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Cavern
Main chamber
Marvel at the sheer scale of this natural wonder, with a ceiling soaring up to 24 meters high.
Ancient Burial Site
Throughout the cave
Explore a space believed to have been used for burials during the Talayotic period.
Natural Light and Acoustics
Cave entrance
Experience the dramatic play of light and the cave's impressive sound qualities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Hike
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path can be rocky and uneven; good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable visit.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the trail, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Signage can be minimal or vandalized; consider downloading offline maps or using a GPS.
🦇 Respect Wildlife
The cave is home to bats; avoid disturbing them and be mindful of their habitat.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path can be rocky and uneven; good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable visit.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the trail, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Signage can be minimal or vandalized; consider downloading offline maps or using a GPS.
🦇 Respect Wildlife
The cave is home to bats; avoid disturbing them and be mindful of their habitat.
📸 Capture the Light
The natural light filtering into the cave creates stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring scale and natural beauty of Cova des Coloms, often describing it as a 'must-see' on Menorca. The hike to reach the cave is considered challenging but rewarding, with many enjoying the solitude and dramatic light. However, some find the trail poorly marked and the cave itself can be smelly due to pigeon droppings.
"Amazing huge cave. We parked at the cemetery. 15 mins on the road, by the hotel, marked sign to caves and a white path for 10 minutes then a rougher path down and then up to the cave. Take the left, rougher path after the first plant sign (ficus). Then you’re almost there. Totally worth the hike. We were alone and passed no one. Take water. Do not attempt if mobility is an issue. Lots of pigeon poop. Amazing light and acoustics.
I wonder if anyone has ever gone right into the m back of the cave…"
Jane Taylor
"The guide Anna was very experienced and helpful. Everything was provided including wetsuits and flashlights. You wouldn't want to go through these caves wothout light. The underground water mixed with seawater in calm crsyal clear pools inside and awesome stalactites and stalagmite strictures in the caves. The hike over the cliffs and swim to the caves means this tour is for the fit and adventurous. A bespoke tour, Well worth it!"
Lawrence Davies
"Parked at the cemetery, relatively short but tricky walk down to the cave. It’s impressive!"
iaingear
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access is via a hike from Es Migjorn Gran. You can park near the cemetery or school. The trail involves walking on roads and then a rougher path down into the barranco. Some visitors mention a 45-minute to 1-hour walk each way. +1
Parking is available in Es Migjorn Gran, often near the cemetery or school. From there, it's a hike to reach the cave.
No, direct vehicle access to the cave is not possible. The final approach requires a hike.
The path can be very rocky and uneven, especially the latter part of the trail. Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended.
The hike can be challenging due to the terrain and can be difficult for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Cova des Coloms is a natural site accessible without a specific ticket purchase for entry to the cave itself. However, guided tours may have associated costs.
As a natural cave, there are no set opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is typically no entrance fee for exploring the cave itself, but be aware of potential costs for guided tours or parking in certain areas.
Yes, many visitors explore Cova des Coloms independently by hiking to it. However, guided tours are also available for a more in-depth experience.
While generally open, it's important to be mindful of the cave's natural environment and any wildlife present, such as bats.
📸 📸 Photography
The entrance of the cave offers dramatic light and shadow play. Inside, focus on the scale of the formations and the unique textures.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the cave. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the cave's vastness. A tripod can help with low-light conditions inside.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural parks and protected areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Experiment with capturing the natural light filtering in and the impressive scale of the cave's interior. The acoustics can also be interesting to capture visually.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Cova des Coloms
While the path offers glimpses of Menorca's rugged landscape, it's important to be prepared. There's limited shade along the route, so carrying ample water is crucial, especially during the hotter months. The effort is rewarded by the unique natural beauty of the cave, but the challenging trek means it's not suitable for those with significant mobility issues.
Some visitors have suggested improvements to the trail, such as better waymarkers and information signs, to enhance the visitor experience. Despite these challenges, the sense of discovery upon reaching the cave makes the hike worthwhile for many adventurers.
Cova des Coloms: A Natural and Historical Marvel
Beyond its geological significance, the cave holds historical importance. It's believed to have been used as a burial site during the Talayotic period, a prehistoric culture native to the Balearic Islands. This adds a layer of mystique and historical depth to the visit, allowing you to connect with the island's ancient past.
The cave's acoustics are also noteworthy, contributing to its unique ambiance. While the cave is a natural habitat for various species, including bats, visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the environment and wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit