Bec de Ferrutx

Bec de Ferrutx is a rocky peak in the municipality of Artà, on the northeastern tip of Mallorca, rising at the edge of the Bay of Alcúdia like a stone tooth jutting out of the Serra de Llevant range. Standing at roughly 523–528 metres, it draws hikers looking for sea views without the crowds that fill the trails of the Serra de Tramuntana.

How do you get there?

The usual starting point is the car park next to the Ermita de Betlem, reached by a minor road running from Artà into the peninsula. From there the trail climbs along the ridge, passing Puig d'en Pelat and the outcrop of Es Ferrutxet before reaching the Bec de Ferrutx summit. Many hikers return by a slightly different line via the La Talaieta viewpoint, turning most of the walk into a loop rather than a straight there-and-back.

What will you see?

The full route covers around 10 km with close to 600 m of elevation gain, and typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours round trip. The final stretch narrows into a rocky ridge with short scrambling sections — nothing that needs ropes, but sturdy hiking boots and steady footing matter. The reward at the top is a sweeping panorama over the entire Bay of Alcúdia, the Cap de Formentor peninsula, and a large stretch of the island's interior. Along the way it's common to spot feral goats, wild donkeys, gulls, and occasionally vultures riding the thermals above the ridge.

When should you go?

March and April are considered the best months, with mild temperatures and the Mediterranean scrub still green after the winter rains. In summer the exposed, largely shadeless ridge gets hot fast, so an early start is worth planning. Spring and autumn also tend to offer clearer air, which sharpens the views from the summit and the various lookout points along the way.

Who is this hike for?

This is a moderately challenging trail suited to hikers with some prior mountain experience. The loose, rocky terrain and the exposed ridge near the top mean children and anyone uneasy with heights should approach the final section with care. For seasoned walkers, though, it's one of the more rewarding outings in this corner of Mallorca — combining wildlife, quiet trails, and views that are harder to come by near the busier paths on the island's western side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to hike Bec de Ferrutx? The round trip usually takes between 3.5 and 4 hours, depending on pace and how many stops you make for photos.

Is this hike suitable for beginners? It's rated moderately challenging — the rocky ground and the ridge near the summit require confident footing, so inexperienced hikers should take extra care on the final approach.

Where's the best place to start the walk? Most hikers begin at the car park by the Ermita de Betlem, following the trail past Puig d'en Pelat and Es Ferrutxet to the summit.

What can you see from the top? The summit offers views over the entire Bay of Alcúdia, the Cap de Formentor headland, and the mountainous interior of northeastern Mallorca.