Mirador Son Real

One starting point is Finca pública de Son Real. Follow the signed paths from the farm buildings towards the coast, then continue to the dolmen and viewpoint. Friedhelm’s route is about 2.2 kilometres each way. With enough time, you can combine the walk with the museum.

The alternative starts at Son Bauló beach in Can Picafort. Follow the coast towards Son Real, passing the necropolis before reaching the viewpoint. The route crosses sand and rocky ground; it isn’t a continuously surfaced promenade.

Remember to allow for the return walk too, with water, sun protection and enough time.

The low stone remains of the Son Real dolmen lie beside the viewpoint. A dolmen is a prehistoric burial structure built from large stones. This site is separate from the larger coastal necropolis, although the two are close together.

Look at the surviving structure from the path rather than sitting or climbing on the stones. If history interests you, combine this short stop with the coastal graves.

These narrow, white structures with red tips are hard to miss. They may look like lighthouses, but they are military alignment towers, known on Mallorca as torres d’enfilació.

According to Can Picafort’s official heritage page, construction began in 1941 for Spanish submarine exercises in the Bay of Alcúdia. They remained in use until 1970.

The principle was straightforward. Towers stood in pairs, one near the coast and the second about 200 metres inland. When a crew at sea saw them directly in line, they knew they were on the corresponding bearing. This is known as a transit alignment.

Up to fourteen pairs were built between Alcúdia and Colònia de Sant Pere. The surviving towers no longer serve a military purpose. They’ve become such a familiar part of the coast that it’s easy to pass without knowing their history.

Spring and autumn are generally more comfortable than the summer heat. Clear, calm winter days can be lovely too.

In July and August, temperature and time of day matter. Open coastal stretches lack shade. Early morning or late afternoon is often more pleasant. Leave the viewpoint for another day in strong wind or thunderstorms.