Coves de Gènova
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Coves de Gènova

4
·2k reviews·Palma, Spain

Discover illuminated limestone formations and a unique restaurant entrance in the historic Coves de Gènova, found in 1906.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Coves de Gènova

Coves de Gènova

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover illuminated limestone formations and a unique restaurant entrance in the historic Coves de Gènova, found in 1906.

4
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful but small cave, it is very calm inside and not crowded at all!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Lots of steps and uneven paths inside. You'll want good grip and support for exploring the caves.

Take your time! :stopwatch:

Don't rush through. The details of the speleothems are stunning if you look closely.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Illuminated Limestone Formations

Illuminated Limestone Formations

Marvel at the naturally formed stalactites and stalagmites, sparkling crystals, and deep fissures, all beautifully lit.

The Discovery Story

The Discovery Story

Learn about the fascinating 1906 discovery of these caves, found by chance while searching for water.

Unique Restaurant Entrance

Unique Restaurant Entrance

Enter the caves through a charming restaurant, adding an unexpected and memorable start to your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

While Coves de Gènova isn't massive, it can get busy. Arriving early or later in the day can mean a more serene experience, allowing you to truly appreciate the illuminated limestone formations without feeling rushed. Check opening hours online as they can sometimes be inaccurate.

Accessibility and What to Expect

These caves involve many steps and can have low ceilings and narrow passages, making them unsuitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to bend and stretch to fully explore the stunning speleothems. The entrance through a restaurant adds a unique touch.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Enjoy the cool cave after the heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tips for your next trip to Discovery Cove. Let me know if I missed any or if you have some more! #discoverycove #orlando #orlandoflorida #florida #dolphins #themepark #seaworld @ClaudioR
@jenvaldental
24.2K likes • 458.4K views

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Lots of steps and uneven paths inside. You'll want good grip and support for exploring the caves.

Take your time! :stopwatch:

Don't rush through. The details of the speleothems are stunning if you look closely.

📍Coves de Génova Palma: descubiertas en el año 1906. Son un tesoro cerca de Cala Major y San Agustin. 📍Se encontraron de casualidad cuando buscaban agua. 📍Tienen un recorrido a pie de un km de distancia y se desciende a 36 mts de profundidad. #covesdegenova
la_geo_profe
42 likes • 576 views

Check hours online :iphone:

Online hours might be incorrect. Verify before you go to avoid disappointment.

Audio guide available :speaker:

Downloadable audio guide offers insights into the cave's discovery and formations.

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Lots of steps and uneven paths inside. You'll want good grip and support for exploring the caves.

Take your time! :stopwatch:

Don't rush through. The details of the speleothems are stunning if you look closely.

Check hours online :iphone:

Online hours might be incorrect. Verify before you go to avoid disappointment.

Audio guide available :speaker:

Downloadable audio guide offers insights into the cave's discovery and formations.

Warm inside :thermometer:

The caves are surprisingly warm, so no need for heavy layers.

What Travellers Say

4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Coves de Gènova to be a beautiful and interesting natural attraction, particularly appreciating the illuminated limestone formations and the unique experience of entering through a restaurant. While some note it's a bit pricey for its size and not accessible for those with mobility issues, the historical discovery aspect and the calm atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for many.

"Interesting, very brief but definitely worth a visit. The lovely quiet cafe area is almost as much of a draw as the caves themselves. Definitely recommend using the QR code to view the short video explaining how the cave was discovered."

Nick Poole

"Lovely cave, it's not big so you can get round quite quickly or slow down and take in your surroundings. For the price it's a worthwhile visit. Sadly while we were there we were unable to try the restaurant as it was during the storm and the area flooded. The staff were lovely though and the tour has a downloadable audio guide. Would definitely recommend a visit."

Stuart Tulloch

"A beautiful but small cave, it is very calm inside and not crowded at all! Maybe a bit pricey for 1 person but worth it if you really appreciate what you're looking at. Would recommend to anyone who doesn't have a lot of time but still wants to experience the stalactite cave a bit. Very friendly staff as well."

Somane Andersson

What People Like

Beautiful illuminated formations
Unique restaurant entrance
Calm and serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Not wheelchair accessible
Can be pricey for size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Coves de Gènova is located near Cala Major and San Agustin. There's a free gravel car park just across the road from the entrance. Public transport options might be available, but driving and parking at the designated spot is convenient.

Yes, there is a free gravel car park available just across the road from the cave entrance, making it easy to access.

Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option. It's situated near Cala Major and San Agustin, so if you're staying in those areas, a stroll could be feasible.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee was around €12 per person in June 2025. It's considered a worthwhile visit for the experience, though some find it a bit pricey for the size of the cave.

Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly, especially during peak season, to confirm availability and any potential booking requirements.

Opening hours can vary, and sometimes what's listed online might be incorrect. It's highly recommended to verify the current opening hours directly with the attraction before your visit to avoid any disappointment.

The caves are typically explored via a guided tour, which allows you to learn about their history and formations. While you can move at your own pace within the tour, it's structured to provide information and ensure safety.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

No, Coves de Gènova is not wheelchair friendly. The caves involve many steps, low ceilings, and potentially cramped spaces, making it challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The cafe and gift shop area might be more accessible.

The cave tour is relatively brief, with a walking path of about 1 km. You can go through quickly, but to appreciate the details, it's recommended to take your time, which could extend the visit slightly. It's a good option if you don't have a lot of time.

The caves maintain a consistent, warm temperature year-round. You don't need to worry about feeling cold inside, even if the weather outside is cooler.

Inside, you'll find beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, sparkling crystals, dripping wells, and deep fissures in the rock. The illumination highlights these natural wonders effectively.

Photography is generally allowed inside the caves, but it's always best to be respectful of other visitors and the delicate cave environment. Flash photography might be discouraged to protect the formations.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the caves are entered through a restaurant. Visitors can enjoy the cafe area, which is described as lovely and quiet, offering a pleasant spot to relax before or after exploring the caves.

The restaurant is accessible and can be enjoyed before or after your cave tour. It's a unique aspect of the Coves de Gènova experience.

Information on specific dietary options at the restaurant isn't widely available. It's advisable to check with the restaurant directly if you have particular dietary requirements.

📸 📸 Photography

Every corner of the illuminated caves offers a photographic opportunity. Focus on capturing the intricate details of the stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations. The unique lighting enhances their beauty.

While not explicitly stated in all reviews, it's common practice in caves to avoid flash photography to protect the delicate speleothems and the natural environment. It's best to use available light or a tripod if permitted.

Given the low light, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod would be beneficial. Experiment with longer exposure times to capture the illuminated formations without excessive noise.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Coves de Gènova can be an exciting, albeit brief, adventure for families. The unique entrance through a restaurant adds an element of fun, and the illuminated cave formations are visually engaging for children. However, parents should be aware that the caves involve numerous steps and can have low ceilings, so it might not be suitable for very young children or those who are easily scared by confined spaces. Ensure children wear comfortable, non-slip shoes and are supervised closely on the pathways.

Consider using the audio guide or video to make the historical discovery aspect more engaging for older children. The relatively short duration of the tour is also a plus for keeping younger attention spans focused. It’s a good option for a quick, memorable outing that offers a glimpse into natural geological wonders without requiring a full day commitment.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples looking for a unique and relatively quick excursion, Coves de Gènova offers a charming experience. The intimate size of the caves means you can explore at your own pace, taking in the beauty without feeling overwhelmed by crowds, especially if you visit during off-peak times. The serene atmosphere inside the caves provides a peaceful escape.

The added bonus of the restaurant entrance offers a pleasant spot for a coffee or a meal, making it a relaxed outing. It’s a great option for those who appreciate natural beauty, a touch of history, and a less touristy feel. The opportunity to learn about the cave's discovery through the audio guide adds an intellectual element to the visit.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Coves de Gènova a visually rewarding location, particularly due to its unique illumination of the natural formations. The stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal structures offer fantastic subjects. The controlled lighting highlights the textures and shapes beautifully, creating dramatic and atmospheric shots. Be mindful of potential restrictions on flash photography, as it can damage the delicate cave environment.

To capture the best images, consider bringing a tripod for longer exposures in the low light conditions. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and intricate details of the speleothems. The unique entrance through the restaurant also provides interesting photographic opportunities, blending the natural and man-made elements of the attraction.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Entrance Experience

One of the most distinctive aspects of Coves de Gènova is its entrance. Instead of a typical visitor center, you'll find yourself entering the caves through a restaurant. This creates an immediate sense of intrigue and sets a unique tone for the visit. The cafe area itself is often praised for its pleasant atmosphere, offering a quiet space to relax and perhaps enjoy a refreshment before or after your subterranean adventure. This integration of dining with natural attraction is a memorable feature that sets it apart from other cave tours.

This unusual entry point is part of what makes Coves de Gènova feel like a hidden gem. It’s not just about descending into the earth; it’s about the entire experience, from the moment you arrive. The reviews often highlight the friendly staff and the overall welcoming environment, contributing to the charm of this unique attraction. It’s a detail that adds to the overall narrative of discovering something special.

Exploring the Speleothems

The star attraction within Coves de Gènova is undoubtedly its speleothems – the natural formations created by mineral deposits over thousands of years. Visitors can witness stunning stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the floor, often meeting to form impressive columns. The caves are also adorned with sparkling crystals that catch the light, adding a magical quality to the underground landscape. The illuminated limestone formations are a key feature, with strategic lighting enhancing their intricate shapes and textures.

While the cave is described as beautiful and worth visiting, it's important to note its size. It's not an extensive cave system, meaning the tour is relatively brief. However, this brevity also means it's accessible for those with limited time. The advice from visitors is to take your time and look closely, as rushing through can mean missing the extraordinary details. The pathways are designed for walking, but be prepared for some awkward corners, low ceilings, and steps, requiring a degree of physical agility. The dripping wells and deep fissures also add to the geological interest, showcasing the dynamic nature of cave formation.

The History of Discovery

Coves de Gènova holds a fascinating piece of local history, having been discovered quite by accident in 1906. The story goes that the caves were found by individuals who were searching for water. This serendipitous discovery led to the uncovering of this beautiful underground world, which has since been opened for public exploration. The historical feel of the place is often mentioned by visitors, adding another layer of appreciation to the experience.

To enhance understanding of this discovery, visitors can utilize a downloadable audio guide or a QR code that links to a short video explaining the cave's origins. This provides context and enriches the visit, allowing you to connect with the history of how these natural wonders were brought to light. The narrative of discovery adds a compelling dimension to the visual spectacle of the illuminated formations.

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