Montserrat consists of a series of rugged mountain peaks located approximately 40 miles outside of Barcelona. Montserrat is Catalan for “serrated mountain,” and the range has played an important role in the history of the region. Visitors to Montserrat will encounter some of the area’s most remarkable natural scenery, as well as lovely panoramic views. Montserrat is also home to a 1,000-year-old monastery, a well-regarded art museum, and a restaurant. Numerous important religious sites dot its hillsides, and hikers flock to the mountains to be challenged by the steep terrain.
If you are in Barcelona and want to see Montserrat, the consider a tour with City Wonders. The group is kept small so your drive there is very comfortable. The tour also includes entrance to the Basilica (but it will cost a little extra to see the Black Jesus.) and the tour guide will show you the basics of the area and then give you time to explore on your own.
History of Montserrat
Montserrat is perhaps the best-known stretch of mountains that form part of the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range. Its primary peaks are and Les Agulles, Montgrós, and Sant Jeroni, which range from roughly 3,000 feet to 4,500 feet. Stone quarried from Montserrat was used in the early construction phases of Antoni Gaudí’s majestic Sagrada Familia, and the government declared a national park around the area in 1987.
The Santa Maria de Monserrat monastery was established here in 1025 by the Benedictines. A basilica was constructed here during the sixteenth century, but it was reduced to rubble two centuries later by soldiers fighting in the Peninsular War. Throughout the remainder of the nineteenth century a new basilica was built; its current façade was put in place after the end of the Spanish Civil War. The nearby Museu de Montserrat was opened in 1911, largely on the basis of art, relics, and artifacts donated from the personal collection of the monk Bonaventura Ubach.
Montserrat Highlights
For many visitors, the primary reason to make the journey to Montserrat is quite simply the beautiful scenery. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere in the entire region with more spectacular views than Monserrat. The rocky landscape of the surrounding mountains, the picturesque buildings tucked into the rugged hillsides, Barcelona and the sea beyond: add it all together and Montserrat is a photographer’s dream come to life.
Another highlight of the Montserrat experience is Santa Maria de Monserrat, an active monastery that dates all the way back to the eleventh century. The original monastery buildings were destroyed during an early nineteenth century war; the facilities were rebuilt later that same century and bear some of the hallmarks of that era’s Catalan architectural flourishing. Of special note is the site’s Basilica, which is home to multiple historic religious relics.
Art lovers will not want to miss out on the chance to tour the Museu de Monserrat. This small museum has an eclectic collection that contains everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Old Master paintings to twentieth-century Modernist sculptures. Famous artists represented by works in the collection here include Caravaggio, El Greco, Claude Monet, and Salvador Dalí, just to name a few.
More to See and Do at Monserrat
There’s so much to see and do at Montserrat that you’ll want to keep reading below for even more information about this unforgettable destination.
*There are several different ways to travel the approximately 40 miles or so from downtown Barcelona to Montserrat. Some visitors enjoy renting a car and driving themselves along the area’s scenic winding roads, while others appreciate the convenience of public transportation. Another great option, though, is to take a guided tour. Amigo Tours, for instance, offers a comprehensive tour package that covers transportation to and from Montserrat, as well as guided experiences at the monastery.
*Santa Cova is another popular attraction located on Montserrat. There, perched high atop the side of the mountain, you’ll find a small chapel and holy grotto that have been sites of religious pilgrimages for centuries.
*A popular place to eat when visiting Montserrat is Restaurant Montserrat. Operating on the first floor of the Mirador dels Apòstols building for an entire half-century now, Restaurant Montserrat serves Mediterranean-style comfort food in a relaxed setting. The real draw? The views on display from the establishment’s floor-to-ceiling windows. From here you’ll be able to dine in style while savoring panoramic views of the countryside.
*The highest point of Montserrat is Sant Jeroni, which stands some 4,055 feet above sea level. If you’re a hiker planning an upcoming trip to Montserrat, this should be your go-to place. A challenging six-mile summit loop hike is a particular favorite; it’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re an experienced hiker looking to access unbelievable views, it’s a can’t-miss opportunity.
*Another popular scenic hike option involves making the journey to St. Michael’s Cross. This important religious landmark features some of the most spectacular views of the entire Montserrat region.
Why Montserrat Should Be on Your Must-See List
Why visit Barcelona and then spend a day exploring a destination that’s located an hour away from the heart of the city? There are so many fantastic things to see and do in Barcelona that it can be challenging to come up with a good answer to that question. However, if you’ve already enjoyed a number of the city’s most popular attractions or guided tours and you’ve still got some free time in your itinerary, then Montserrat makes for the perfect day trip from Barcelona. Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, history, or art, the many diverse attractions located at Montserrat offer a little bit of something for everyone.