Menorca is home to many captivating activities, among which the “Cuevas” or “Cova” such as Cova des Coloms, Cala Morell or Cova d’en Xoroi are very popular. But there are other options too, especially if, like me, you prefer to escape the crowds. During my stay, I concentrated on discovering some of the less famous but still remarkable caves.
In this article, I give you a list of the 7 most beautiful caves in Menorca for my taste, along with photos, recommendations and a map to help you find your way around.
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Menorca:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Menorca: DiscoverCars
My favourite sea activity: transparent kayak
My favourite excursion in Menorca: a half-day catamaran trip
My favorite places to stay:
- Cala’n Porter, close to the village of Alaior – my favourite hotel: Osprey Menorca Hotel or view top rated hotels
- Port Mahon, the most convenient for exploring – my favourite hotel: Catalonia Mirador or view top rated hotels
- Cala Galdana, the liveliest – my favourite hotel: Ilunion Menorca Hotel or view top rated hotels
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1. Cova des Coloms cave, the most famous on the island
The Cova des Coloms is the largest cave on the island of Menorca. It is accessible from the Es Migjorn Gran urbanization to the south, and is located in the Binigaus ravine. A short hike is required to reach it.It is quite impressive, with a ceiling height of 24m and a length of 110m. Its central chamber has long been home to the many pigeons that gave the cave its name.It is a major archaeological site that has been the subject of several studies following the discovery of remains. The cave is thought to have been used as a burial space during the post-Talayotic period, from the 6th to the 2nd century BC.
- Location –
Between the urbanizations of Es Migjorn and Santo Tomas
South coast of the island, less than 3 km inland from Binigaus beach
Port Mahon to Cova des Coloms = 30min drive
Ciutadella to Cova des Coloms = 35min drive - Type of cave –
Natural cave carved into cliffs - Opening times –
Free access 24 hours a day every day
See the latest information on the Menorca tourist office website here. - Price –
Free - Practical information –
Free, open-air parking is available, but the road to get there is quite narrow between the dry-stone walls, so I’d recommend taking it easy by car or getting there by bike.
The site is unsupervised and in the middle of nature. Go during the day to take advantage of the clear daylight, and bring a picnic if your hike lasts longer.
Possible presence of birds inside the cave.
The cave is quite large, so there’s little risk of claustrophobia.
Where to stay in Menorca?
I recommend staying either close to one of the 2 main towns, Ciutadella or Port Mahon, or in one of the charming little villages all over the island. You’ll enjoy good restaurants, typical markets and their picturesque atmosphere. For example, you could opt for:
- Hotel Gran Melia Villa Le Blanc Hotel in Santo Tomas – View photos & availability
- Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port, overlooking the natural harbour of Mahon – View photos & availabilities
- Hotel Smoix Hotel, in the old town of Ciutadella – View photos and availability
2. El Bufador de Binibequer cave (Binibeca)
The Bufador de Binibequer cave is located close to Binibeca beach on Menorca’s south coast. You can reach it on foot from the beach, walking carefully over the rocks. You’ll then be able to see the cave from above. Or you can do as I did and opt for a kayaking session to explore it from the sea. After paddling for ten minutes or so, you’ll find yourself facing the mouth of the grotto. The wind can be quite strong, causing the kayak to drift. If you take this tour by choosing a guided excursion (which I recommend), the instructor on his own kayak will accompany you inside the cave. Diving trips to explore this cave are also organized.
A shaft of light gave me a glimpse of the turquoise-blue water at the heart of this stone lair.I was surprised to notice that the rock inside the cave was red, which testifies to the different types of geological landscapes in Menorca depending on the age of the stone.It was an unforgettable moment when, seated in my transparent kayak, I could make out the algae on the seabed and, looking up, the many striations on the ceiling of Binibequer’s Cueva del Bufador.
- Location –
Close to Binibeca village and beach
Southeast coast of the island
From Port Mahon to La Cueva del Bufador de Binibequer = 25min drive
From Ciutadella to La Cueva del Bufador de Binibequer = 1h de route - Type of caves –
Sea cave - Opening times –
Constant free access
Kayaking and diving trips on average 2 times a day
Kayaking trip including cave tour lasts approx. 2 hrs. - Price –
Free access by your own means, prices vary according to outings kayak or dive. - Practical info –
It’s an easy drive to Binibeca beach, from where you can set off on foot to see the sea cave “from above”. Kayak departures are from Cala Torrent. I recommend that you opt for kayaking or diving with an experienced instructor, as this sea area can be very rough. Only experienced kayakers should venture into this area unaccompanied.Parking is limited in the village alleyways.The cave is rather bright and large with a good ceiling height, so no claustrophobia.
Need to rent a car in Menorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
3. Cova d’en Xoroi cave (Cala’n Porter)
La Cova d’en Xoroi is a disco bar nestled in a cliff-top cave in Cala’n Porter.It’s an atypical and rather popular spot in Menorca, known for its nightlife since the mid-1960s!
Thousands of people visit this exceptional bar every year, more than 30m above the sea surface, which blends in perfectly with its natural surroundings.
Fancy a drink on a cliff-side terrace? After queuing outside for a while (as the place is famous for!), climb the stairs to reach the cave. You can get there in the late morning, when it’s usually less crowded, or at sunset, to enjoy the exceptional colorful views from the terraces, or at night, to experience the discotheque and musical atmosphere. An all-inclusive ticket is available on the bar’s official website. Please note that only drinks are served.
- Location –
Close to the urbanization of Cala’n Porter
Southeast coast of the island
Port Mahon to Cova d’en Xoroi = 25min drive
Ciutadella to Cova d’en Xoroi = 50min drive - Type of caves –
Natural cave dug into the cliffs - Opening times –
Open daily from 3:45 pm
Open Sundays from 11:30 am
Closed from end of October to end of April
See the latest information on the official website here. - Price –
Drinks between €10 and €200, depending on choice. - Practical information –
It’s an easy drive to Cala’n Porter.
Parking is straightforward, with a parking space right next to the disco bar.
The easiest way to get there is by car, but if you prefer public transport, box 31 and 33 stop at Alaior. It’s about a fifteen-minute walk from there. To get to the cave, you’ll have to climb the stairs along a cliff. Don’t worry, a barrier secures the passage!
My favourite activity in Menorca
I highly recommend the Binibeca: guided transparent kayak tour.
In just 2 hours, you’ll experience an unforgettable moment: a glimpse of the turquoise waters without diving, in the magical coves, caves and beach of Binibeca.
4. “Cueva de la Luz” cave (Cala’n Porter)
La Cueva de la Luz means “cave of light” in Spanish. It is located near Cala’n Porter, between the cliffs of the Mirador del Mediteraneo. It can therefore only be visited by sea.This cave can be quite impressive, with a fairly high but narrow entrance. As you step inside, you’ll see a skylight revealing the turquoise blue of the water preserved in this hidden spot. It’s possible to swim inside and even snorkel to contemplate the wonders of Menorca’s marine biodiversity.
If you’re comfortable and experienced, you can get there from Cala’n Porter by paddle or kayak on your own. It’s a windy area and open to the Mediterranean Sea, so I’d recommend you instead go on a water activity excursion with one of the operators present near Cala’n Porter beach to explore the cliff caves of the Menorcan south coast.
- Location –
Close to the urbanization of Cala’n Porter
Southeast coast of the island
Port Mahon to Cueva de la Luz = 25min drive
Ciutadella to Cueva de la Luz = 45min drive - Type of caves –
Sea cave - Opening hours –
Continuous free access
Kayaking and diving trips on average 2 times a day
Kayaking trips including a visit to the cave last 1 to 2 hours. - Price –
See prices and availability here - Practical information –
The road is easy to Cala’n Porter.
Several free open-air parking lots are open near Cala’n Porter beach.
Access to the cave requires a kayak or paddle departure from this beach. The cave is quite high, but narrow only long enough to enter, which may not be suitable if you’re claustrophobic.
5. Cova de S’Aigua cave
La Cova de s’Aigua means “water cave” in Catalan. It’s an original natural cave with a rich prehistoric past and a secluded lake of extraordinary clarity.
Guided underground exploration tours take you along a route dotted with numerous geological formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. Get ready for the highlight of the show: the crystalline lake, whose rugged rocky floor promises an almost supernatural beauty. The guided tour, offered in several languages, will immerse you in the history of this ancient cave. Its preservation and development have required major efforts to make it accessible to visitors.
- Location –
Close to the beach and urbanization of Cala Blanca
West end of the island
Port Mahon to Cova de s’Aigua = 50min drive
Ciutadella to Cova de s’Aigua = 15min drive - Type of caves –
Karst cave - Opening hours –
Every day from 9:30 to 19:30 – closed from early November to early May
The tour is guided (in several languages) and lasts about 45min.
Book your ticket now! - Price –
From €10 - Practical info –
The road is easy to get to.
Parking is limited and will only be available in nearby lanes.
The tour includes stairs down to the cave and the crystal-clear lake it shelters.
The route is marked out and it is forbidden to leave the guided itinerary or touch the geological formations.
The caves aren’t very big, so if you’re prone to claustrophobia it’s not ideal.
Be very careful if you go there with your children, who must remain under your supervision at all times.
I don’t drink coffee
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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6 to 7 – Other caves in Menorca
6. Cueva de “Los Ingleses” Cave
On the northern coast of Menorca, the “Cueva de Los Ingleses” cave is one of the most famous on this part of the island. It is located close to but outside the marine reserve near the village of Fornells (access via the Me-7 or Me-15 roads). It’s a magical place for diving and admiring the biodiversity of Menorca’s marine world!
To get the most out of this unique experience, I suggest you take a professional diving trip with you – see prices, availability and book.
7. Cala Morell necropolis
Did you know that the Cala Morell necropolis in the north-west of Menorca served as a cemetery for its inhabitants for several centuries up to the 2nd century AD? Carved out of the rock, this natural wonder is made up of 14 caves – impressive, isn’t it? Each cave has its own distinctive features: flat or uneven floors, columns or unique pieces. Architectural ornaments can be seen at the entrances to some of the caves. Access is free of charge. As most of the island is still wild and unspoilt, I recommend a daytime visit to admire as many details as possible. Please note that there are a few staircases on site, and some passages are not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
To reach the site, join the main Me-1 road and head towards Cami de Cala Morell, then Carrer Lira. A small, popular parking lot with limited spaces is available nearby along the road.
Need to rent a car in Menorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
About Menorca’s caves – Map, tips, caves …
How many caves are there in Menorca?
Menorca is home to numerous sea and land caves (both natural and man-made). Some are naturally dug into the cliffs, others are the result of human intervention, as reflected for example in the Necropolis of Cala Morell and its 14 caves, which served as a cemetery for several centuries.
There’s a fine line between cavern and cave:
- a cave is a natural cavity hollowed out by the erosion of rock,
- the cave is also naturally formed or originally natural, but indicates, even occasionally, human activity or the presence of animals.
Map – 7 caves to visit in Menorca
Here’s a map to help you locate these 7 caves and caverns in Menorca.
Caving or “seacaving” in Minorca
And for an even more amazing experience, consider marine caving: you won’t forget this unique moment! Read more
Plan your trip to Menorca:
Best-of:
- 35 best things to do in Menorca
- Menorca’s most beautiful landscapes
- Menorca’s most beautiful villages and towns
- Best beaches in Menorca
- Menorca hidden gems
- Best museums in Menorca
- Best caves
- Best calas
- Markets in Menorca
- Best restaurants
Useful tips:
- Where to stay in Menorca
- Best luxury hotels in Menorca
- Best family hotels in Menorca
- Best boutique hotels
- Tips for driving in Menorca
- Renting a car in Menorca
- My itineraries in Menorca – coming soon
- Road trip in Menorca – coming soon
Towns:
- Port Mahon: Things to do – Best hotels
- Ciutadella: Things to do – Best hotels
All my advice in this article was put into words with the help of Myriam.