We visited the Carmelite monastery, the Monasterio Desierto de las Palmas, which is located on the mountain region of the Plana Alta, parallel to the coast and overlooking Benicassim. Nestled in what is known as the Desierto de las Palmas, so called due to the abundance of a variety of palms that grow there.

The Carmelite fathers fell in love with the solitude and beauty of the area and decided to build a monastery. The first monastery started in 1694 and was destroyed some years later, of which the ruins are preserved. This gave way to another located in the highest part of the mountain, where the Carmelite friars have lived since 1784.

Unfortunately, we were super unprepared and I forgot to check their hours and the monastery was not open when we visited so we will call and arrange a visit.

But it was beautiful on the mountain and we had fabulous views.