Magical Montserrat - Day Trips from BCN

Montserrat is a famous range of mountainous peaks about 1 hour drive or train journey north-west from Barcelona. They are a stunning natural beauty. Serrat in Catalan roughly translates to “saw” which describes the “saw like” unique looking formation of the rock. Monserrat is mainly famous for its remote Benedictine Monastery dating from around 1050. The monastery is a religious symbol and a pilgrimage for people from around the world. The Basilica is also home to the statue of Catalonia’s patron virgin “La Moreneta” otherwise known as the black virgin – the statue is one of around 500 “black Madonna’s” in Europe. Research shows that the statue was carved in the 12th century although there are stories it dates it to AD 50. Legend has it that the Benedictine monks could not move the statue to construct their monastery, so they chose to build around it instead. The statue's sanctuary is located at the rear of the chapel, where it’s surrounded by an altar of gold. Unfortunately the Monastery was largely destroyed in the 1811 War of Independence but was re built 30 years later.

On arrival to Montserrat

We spent half a day at Montserrat Monastery which I would say is plenty of time to see everything. This included taking the funicular to the very top of the mountain where there are various hiking routes and walks to do not to mention amazing photo opportunities. The views across the Catalonian countryside are absolutely amazing and unrivalled. Sadly for us we were not able to hear the famous boys’ choir which resides there. The boys’ choir sing Georgian chants and other religious choral music. There was however a local farmers market where we were able to buy some gorgeous cheese and bread and have an impromptu picnic lunch with the most amazing views!

The funicular to the top of the mountain

Stunning views of the Catalonian coutryside

Although the tour we went with was organised by Explore Catalunya meaning we travelled in a minivan from a central meeting point in the city, you can get to Montserrat via train which takes roughly an hour. The train station is located in the Espanya train station which is connected via the green and red metro line so is easy access from anywhere in the city. This train takes you to the foot of the mountain. You then need to get tickets for the cable car or the funicular – this is what actually takes you up on the mountain.

The other half of our day was spent in the Penedes wine region, you can read all about my ”wine tasting trips " here. Overall, Monserrat is a great day trip out of the city and the fact you can do it in half a day is great if you are stretched time-wise. You should not miss this stunning religious sight and the most beautiful views over the Catalonian countryside. Hope you enjoy my photos below!

All photos by gemmareidphotography for heartBCN