Overlooking the Balearic Sea, Banicarlo is a laid-back coastal town on the road that connects Valencia and Barcelona. It’s home to a beautiful Baroque church and a palm-dotted stretch of sand, as well as a centuries-old convent that now serves as a cultural history museum.
Things to do in Benicarló
Dedicated to the town’s patron saint is the Church of Sant Bartolomeu, which was completed in 1743 with a richly ornamented Baroque facade. On its right-hand side is an octagonal bell tower that rises to 38 metres in height and stands independent from the church. Step inside to explore the side chapels and admire the Virgin of Remedios altarpiece.
Stretching south of Benicarlo’s town centre is Platja del Morrongo, a wide, sandy beach where you can swim and sunbathe in the warmer months. Backing the beach are a handful of eateries, including Restaurante Chuanet and Cafetería La Carxofeta. Nestled just behind is the sun-dappled Jardí de la Mar and a miniature golf course.
Benicarlo makes a good base for visiting the Castell de Peníscola, a huge seafront fortification developed by the Knights Templar on the remains of a Moorish citadel. In 1411, it was transformed into a papal library by Benedict XIII and is now accessible to the public on guided tours. After exploring its imposing walls and defences, enjoy the sweeping sea views from El Parc d’Artilleria.
Getting around Benicarló
Benicarlo is around 1.5 hours’ drive from both Tarragona and Valencia. Valencia Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect from Valencia and Barcelona to the Benicarlo-Peniscola railway station and buses travel through Benicarlo. The town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.