The Desert de les Palmes is a natural park just behind the coastal town of Benicassim and is not an actual desert! And there are not many palms there either, the name refers to the palm trees in the surrounding coastal areas. The donkeys are probably owned by local farmers who use them in the mountains when harvesting their crops; we came across these ones and stopped to feed them, they were friendly donkeys and appreciated the fresh grass!!

There is an 18km pot holed narrow road that winds its way from the outskirts of the town, over the tops of the mountain and down the other side, with footpaths heading off to waterfalls and natural fountains, ruined castles, remains of a monastery within sight of the newer built monastery and endless rocky outcrops with fantastic views fom the top. It tops out at 780 metres above sea level and was pretty chilly up there but the views were worth it! The area is popular with walkers, hikers and cyclists as well as pilgrims.

Black and white meets brown and white!

View of Benicassim from the top.

So much greenery.

David, Keith and Jean admiring the views.

The remains of a Carmelite monastery where spiritual refuge would have been sought. A new monastery has been built further up the hill and is still in operation today.

View of the monastery remains from a different angle.

The area is home to numerous pine trees, cork oaks, shrubs and aromatic plants and is regularly farmed.

Looking up at the “new” monastery.

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