Cabrera

An archipelago located around 11 miles from the southern coast of Mallorca Cabrera consists of one main island, known as Great Cabrera, and another 18 lesser-sized islands

The presence of reefs and sandbanks makes the whole a veritable natural reserve of the highest calibre.

The islands have been a natural reserve since they were declared so in 1986 after a long battle to recognise their unique nature. They are only accessible now via an organised trip that has to be made in advance. Even if someone decides to arrive there aboard a free-roaming ship, permission has to be sought from the local authorities in order to land ashore.

More information: http://www.aboutcabrera.com/

Routes and Places worth a Visit

Because of its unique status, there are many places to visit. These include the port, which is the only inhabited part of the island. This consists of a small port area, which is well protected against the elements by a narrow entrance. Here is concentrated all the necessary installation to administrate the island and the natural park including the park police, the old Guardia Civil command post and a museum, which is located in the ‘Celler’ building, about a kilometre from the port area.

The castle of Cabrera broods over the port area. This singular building as constructed in the XIV century, although it was reformed and remodelled on various occasions. It was finally restored to its original magnificence at the end of the XX century. As this building was used as a prison during the Napoleonic wars, one of its curiosities are the many thousands of inscriptions carved into the stone walls by the French prisoners who were destined to enjoy a stay here at Her Imperial Majesty’s Pleasure.

The Cova Blava (Blue Cave) is on of the most famous tourist attractions of this tine island. This fame comes from the distinctive manner in which the light filters to the bottom of the cave giving the water a deep blue aspect when one submerges below the surface.