Montserrat Monastery Tour + Hiking Off the Beaten Path

Montserrat translates to a serrated (sawed) mountain in Catalan. On your 45-minute minivan drive from Barcelona, you can make out the jagged mountain peaks ahead of you. The Benedictine Abbey, set at an altitude of 725 meters on top of the mountain, is known as the site of Santa Maria de Montserrat.

Not only is this a holy mountain, but it is famous for pilgrims across the world who are seeking the Black Madonna, the official patron of Catalonia. Her statue can be seen in the basilica of the monastery. Your hike begins from the monastery, through a beautiful path around the peaks of the mountain. Along the way, look out over spectacular views of the rugged mountain peaks and the green, luscious valleys below. When you reach the highest point of the mountain, take in the 360° panoramic views of the multi-peaked rocky range surrounding you. If there are clear skies, you might even be able to see the Pyrenees. Take this opportunity to admire the great landscapes and maybe snap a picture or two.