Photographer: Jarikir
The Hermitage of Betlem (l´Hermita de Betlem), which is a haven of peace and meditation, is located in an unpopulated and wild mountain area 9 km north of Artà within the Llevant Natural Park; it is well signposted from Artà. It is set within the old Moorish farmstead of Binialgorfa, and was founded in 1805 by members of the hermit communities of Saint Honorat of Randa and the Trinity of Valldemossa. At 200 metres from the chapel is the Cave of Na Bernada, which is located within a zone with stone benches and tables which has been set up for visitors, next to the water fountain used to water the hermits´ vegetable garden. From this point, following the path next to the water tank which regulates the water flow from the spring, visitors can take in spectacular views over the Bay of Alcúdia and the Serra de Llevant ridge, which is known as Artana in these parts; continuing on down, in just over half an hour you reach the sea, passing the houses of Betlem on the side of la Colònia de Sant Pere on the Bay of Alcúdia.