Barcelona: Montserrat Early Hiking Trip With Abbey & Madonna

Exploring the mystical Montserrat mountain near Barcelona is a unique opportunity to take in natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This early hiking trip promises a seamless 7-hour adventure, taking participants on a 4-hour trek through stunning landscapes. With the iconic Montserrat Monastery and the revered Black Madonna as key highlights, the excursion offers an intimate experience for a small group of just 7 travelers, led by knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or seeking a cultural adventure, this trip presents a chance to discover the captivating essence of Montserrat.

Good To Know

• This 7-hour early morning excursion from Barcelona offers a visit to the Montserrat Monastery and a guided hiking tour of the scenic Montserrat mountain.
• The hike covers up to 7.5 km with a maximum vertical drop of 1574 feet, suitable for various fitness levels.
• Participants get early access to see the monks singing and the Black Madonna before the crowds arrive.
• The tour includes hotel pickup in the Eixample area, roundtrip transportation, and a one-way cog wheel train ticket.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 8, individuals with mobility issues, or those over 65 years old.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Details

The Barcelona: Montserrat Early Hiking Trip offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the iconic Montserrat Monastery and embark on a guided hike through the scenic mountain landscape.

Priced from $75.55 per person, the 7-hour excursion includes hotel pickup in the Eixample area and a maximum group size of 7 participants.

Priced from $75.55 per person, the 7-hour excursion includes hotel pickup in the Eixample area and a maximum group size of 7 participants.

Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides in English and Spanish, providing an intimate and informative experience.

Highlights include early access to the monastery, scenic viewpoints, and a cog wheel train ride.

Itinerary and Activities

After an early morning departure from Barcelona between 6:15h and 6:30h, the group arrives at Montserrat at 7:15h.

The first stops are:

1. Visit the Black Madonna and Montserrat Monastery, each for 15 minutes.

2. Set out on a 4-hour hiking tour with options varying in difficulty, allowing for different fitness levels.

3. Enjoy scenic views during the 15-minute travel and take a 14-minute zipper train ride to the lower side of the mountain.

The total hiking distance is up to 7.5 km (4.66 miles) with a maximum vertical drop of 480 meters (1574 feet).

Highlights and Experience

As the first visitors to see the monks singing and the Black Madonna, travelers can avoid the long lines that typically form later in the day.

Beat the crowds and witness the monks’ serene chants and the revered Black Madonna first-hand.

The tour offers hiking options suitable for various fitness levels, allowing participants to choose a path that best matches their abilities.

Throughout the 5-hour Montserrat exploration, visitors will be treated to scenic views and the chance to enjoy the rich history and spiritual atmosphere of the region.

The intimate group size of 7 participants ensures a personalized experience with the knowledgeable guide, further enhancing the memorable nature of this early morning adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This early hiking trip to Montserrat includes hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip transportation by van, a one-way cog wheel train ticket, entrance to the Abbey for the monks’ singing, and a guided tour of the Montserrat Monastery area.

The tour excludes food and drinks.

Plus, it’s not suitable for:

1. Children under 8

2. People with mobility impairments

3. Individuals over 65 years

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

The early hiking trip to Montserrat has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 183 reviews.

Customers praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who provide historical context and help visitors avoid long lines to see the Black Madonna and monks singing.

The early morning departure is particularly appreciated for the beautiful, crowd-free views. Reviewers recommend this tour for those seeking a memorable Montserrat experience, noting it’s suitable for various fitness levels.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 8, those with mobility issues, or individuals over 65.

Getting to Montserrat

Reaching Montserrat from Barcelona is a straightforward journey, with the early hiking tour providing convenient transportation options.

The tour includes:

1. Departure from Barcelona between 6:15 AM and 6:30 AM in a comfortable van, allowing participants to arrive at Montserrat around 7:15 AM.

2. A one-way cog wheel train ride down the mountain at the end of the tour, providing a scenic and efficient way to descend.

3. Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Eixample area, simplifying the start and end of the day’s adventure.

This early start ensures guests can beat the crowds and have a peaceful, intimate experience exploring Montserrat.

Packing and Preparation

When preparing for the Barcelona: Montserrat Early Hiking Trip, participants should pack appropriately for the day’s activities.

Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots with good traction. Dress in breathable, layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures on the mountain.

Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep energized during the 4-hour hike. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Carrying trekking poles can help with stability on the trails. Bring any necessary personal items, but pack light to enjoy the journey.

Ensure you have all the essentials for a rewarding and safe day in Montserrat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’re some of the frequently asked questions about the Barcelona: Montserrat Early Hiking Trip? The tour offers several common inquiries from interested travelers.

1. Is this trip suitable for children? The tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 years old due to the strenuous hiking involved.

2. Can I bring my own food and drinks? Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and water for the hike, but they’re not provided.

3. Is there an option for those unable to hike? Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t accommodate individuals with mobility impairments or those over 65 years old. The hiking is an essential part of the experience.

Common Questions

Is This Trip Suitable for People With Dietary Restrictions?

The trip may not be the best fit for people with dietary restrictions, as the inclusions don’t cover any meals or snacks. Travelers would need to bring their own food or make separate arrangements to accommodate their dietary needs.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Is It Provided?

Hikers can bring their own gear for the Montserrat hike. The tour doesn’t provide hiking equipment, but participants are welcome to use their personal gear during the trek. This allows hikers to use familiar and comfortable supplies.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Trip?

The amount of spending money needed will depend on individual preferences, but a reasonable estimate is around $20-30 per person for optional food, drinks, and any additional purchases at Montserrat during the 7-hour trip.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Hiking Portion?

The minimum age requirement for the hiking portion of the trip is 8 years old. Children under 8 are not permitted on the hike due to the difficulty and distance involved.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

There’s no option to upgrade to a private tour for this Montserrat hiking trip. It’s a small group tour limited to 7 participants, providing an intimate experience without the option for private bookings.

The Sum Up

This early hiking trip to Montserrat from Barcelona offers a breathtaking and immersive experience for nature and history enthusiasts. With hotel pickup, a guided 4-hour hike, and a visit to the iconic Montserrat Monastery and Black Madonna, it’s an affordable and personalized way to explore this stunning natural wonder. The small group size ensures a unique and memorable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: