Desierto de les Palmes

Castellón Province


The twisting, climbing CV147 leads, after about 6km, to this occasionally misty inland range – cooler than the coast – with a Carmelite monastery and first-class restaurant at its heart. Nowadays it's a nature reserve and far from being a desert (for the monks that meant a place for mystic withdrawal), it’s green area perfect for outdoor activities. From Monte Bartolo (728m), its highest point, there are staggering views. The tourist office hands out an excellent booklet listing a range of different hill walks.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Castellón Province attractions

1. Concatedral de Santa María

6.83 MILES

In Valencian Gothic style, the city's handsome cathedral was completely rebuilt after being set ablaze during the civil war. Next to it stands its iconic…

2. Sierra de Irta

22.73 MILES

To escape the summer crowds, seek solitude in the Sierra de Irta. Running south from Peñíscola, it’s both nature park and protected marine reserve, best…

3. Museo de Valltorta

23.28 MILES

An informative museum, 2km from Tirig, itself 10km southwest of Sant Mateu. It presents a detailed overview of prehistoric art and El Maestrazgo’s World…

4. Ermita de la Mare de Déu dels Àngels

28.11 MILES

Follow signs from the Plaza Mayor to this loveable chapel perched on a rocky hillside, a 2.5km drive, or somewhat shorter walk, away. It was a monastery…

5. Castillo de Peñíscola

28.24 MILES

The rambling 14th-century castle was built by the Knights Templar on Arab foundations and later became home to Pedro de Luna (‘Papa Luna’, the deposed…

6. Museo les Presons

28.31 MILES

Underneath what was once the town hall, these two thick-walled medieval dungeons are atmospheric and backed up by an exhibition of farm tools and other…

7. Iglesia Arciprestal

28.34 MILES

Just off the plaza, this Gothic village church has a Romanesque portal and a fine interior. The frescoed neo-classical side chapel has a macabre reliquary…

8. Museo Paleontológico

28.43 MILES

This impressive private fossil collection in a house just beyond the town walls has some excellent pieces.

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      "continent": "Europe",
      "country": "Spain",
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