You could pass within a few miles of the Monastery of Christ in the Desert without ever realizing it was there. The monastery is tucked into the Chama Valley, between the Chama River and red cliffs that tower over the rest of the landscape. The buildings blend in with the earth, seeming to rise out of the very rock.

No one arrives at this breathtaking place by accident. Located in Abiquiu, between Santa Fe and Chama, the monastery lies at the end of a 13-mile long dirt road that becomes impassable during and immediately following wet weather.

Seriously, don’t try it – your car will get stuck.

However, veering off the beaten track yields abundant rewards. Just look at this place…

Beautiful and tranquil, it’s easy to see why this spot provides a welcome reprieve from the rush of daily life.

Spiritual seekers of all faiths are welcome to visit the monastery, which is open to guests on weekdays and Sundays between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (Pack a picnic.)

The most striking structure here is undoubtedly the Abbey Church.

Japanese-American architect George Nakashima is responsible for its design. Nakashima is hailed as one of the fathers of the American craft movement.

Step inside the chapel.

The large windows showcase the setting, providing a gorgeous reminder of the magnificence of the natural world and of how small we, as individual humans, are.

Notice the adobe and the use of vigas?

The entire monastic complex was designed with sustainability in mind and that involved incorporating local materials. The monastery runs on solar power and uses a self-sufficient water system. The Benedictine monks living here are very conscious of the need to preserve the environment around them.

You can see why. The monastery is abuts a vast, protected wilderness area.

Just look at the vibrant hues of this red rock canyon.

The serenity at Monastery of Christ in the Desert is so appealing that some guests want to spend the night.

That is possible, but you need to commit to a minimum two-night stay. There’s a recommended nightly donation and meals are included. If that appeals, here is some additional information to help with planning.

The Monastery of Christ in the Desert is on Forest Rd 151 in Abiquiu. Driving directions can be found here.

Have you made the pilgrimage out to this chapel?

Check out our previous article: "These 14 Spiritual Places In New Mexico Will Leave You In Awe."