From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Anita Monro
AU

Anita

Australia
Dec 2025

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Ease of transport access. Great attraction. Too much for 1 day. Really need 2 days at least. We didn't get a chance to do any walks. The basilica and museum were our focus. Restaurant meal was excellent.
Dénes József
HU

Dénes

Hungary
Sep 2025

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Hello! It was very easy to book with the headout app and everything was fine. It was a great help for us. We were in Montserrat with a group of 7 friends. I would recommend them to everyone.
John Burns

John

Sep 2025

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Our guide, Bosco, was caring, informative, and so pleasant to spend a day with. Everything ran smoothly and we were able to have a relaxed but focused day at the monastery. The lunch was a great way to meet everyone and enjoy wonderful Catalan cuisine.
Kaminthia O'Neill
AU

Kaminthia

Australia
Dec 2025
Wonderful experience all around! Everything was so easy from picking up our tickets at the station. to obtaining our tickets for the Black Maddona in Monserrate . An amazing must see , when visiting Barcelona. Highly recommend booking your visit this way !
Paul Richard Flack
US

Paul

United States
Oct 2025
The experience was pretty easy. A little more direction on which stop to get off of at Montserrat would have been helpful. Such as: the first Montserrat train station is for the cable car. And the second stop is for the train up the mountain. Especially with the tickets we bought. Fun time overall.
Flir Sabine

Flir

Oct 2025
It was a wonderful day. Everything was just perfect. The coach trip was very pleasant and Sarah our guide was just great. Very knowledgeable in all areas. Highly recommended!
Adaeze Okoli
CA

Adaeze

Canada
Oct 2025
Sarah and Kim were wonderful. Sarah was very warm, friendly and very knowledgeable about the history and helped make the trip a very enjoyable one.

Top things to do in Barcelona

Montserrat Monastery Trail

  • Distance: 6.5 km
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Elevation gain: About 500 meters

This well-marked trail leads directly to the Montserrat Monastery and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The path is mostly rocky and dirt, with some steep sections

Montserrat Monastery to The Degotalls

  • Distance: 3.2 km
  • Duration: 50 minutes
  • Difficulty: Very easy
  • Elevation gain: 20 meters

This short, peaceful trail is ideal for self-meditation and relaxation. It runs parallel to the road and offers scenic views of the Pyrenees and Llobregat Valley. Along the way, you’ll find monuments and lush vegetation.

Santa Cova Trail

  • Distance: 2.7 km
  • Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections)
  • Elevation gain: 120 meters

This pilgrimage route leads to Santa Cova, where an image of the Virgin Mary is said to have been discovered. You can walk or take the Santa Cova funicular part of the way. The trail passes through the ‘Path of the Rosary,’ lined with religious monuments and beautiful rock formations.

Sant Jeroni Trail

  • Distance: 7.5 km
  • Duration: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Elevation gain: 320 meters

For those looking for a true adventure, this is the most rewarding Montserrat mountain hike. The trail begins at the Sant Joan Funicular upper station and leads to Sant Jeroni, the highest peak of Montserrat at 1,236 meters. The ascent involves some scrambling, but the breathtaking 360° views make it worth the effort.

Sant Joan Trail

  • Distance: 5.2 km
  • Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Elevation gain: 150 meters

This scenic route offers views of the Llobregat River and surrounding mountains. The trail descends gradually, passing through forests and rocky outcrops before reaching the Holy Cave.

How to return after your hike

Once you've completed your hike, there are several ways to return to the monastery or your starting point:

  • Walk: Most hiking trails in Montserrat are circular or have well-marked return routes. Simply retrace your steps or follow alternative scenic paths back to the monastery or your chosen departure point.
  • Funiculars: If you hiked up via the Sant Joan or Santa Cova routes and prefer to avoid a steep descent, you can take the Sant Joan Funicular (for high-altitude hikes) or the Santa Cova Funicular (for the Santa Cova pilgrimage site). These are quick, comfortable options to return to the monastery.
  • Rack railway or cable car: For those who descended to Monistrol de Montserrat, the Cremallera de Montserrat (rack railway) and Aeri de Montserrat (cable car) provide easy rides back up to the monastery. These options are ideal if you're tired or want a unique perspective of the mountain.
  • Bus or taxi services: There are occasional local bus services and taxis available from Monistrol de Montserrat to the monastery area, which can be convenient if you end your hike at a lower elevation.

Getting to Montserrat Monastery

What to expect on a Montserrat mountain hike

Montserrat Monastery
Montserrat Monastery Tour + Hiking Off the Beaten Path
Statues of holy saint along the walkway of Montserrat.
tourists during hike to montserrat monastery
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Diverse Landscapes and Terrain

Montserrat’s unique jagged peaks make for an unforgettable hiking experience. The trails range from easy forest paths to steep rocky climbs with breathtaking views. Some routes have stone steps or narrow ridges, while others wind through shaded woodlands, offering a break from the sun.

Flora and Fauna

The mountain is full of Mediterranean plants, such as rosemary, thyme, and holm oaks. In spring, wildflowers add color to the landscape.

You might also spot local wildlife, including Alpine ibex, known for climbing steep cliffs, and small animals like rabbits and wild boars. Birdwatchers can look for peregrine falcons and golden eagles soaring above the peaks.

Historical and Religious Landmarks

Montserrat is not just about nature—it has a deep history. Many trails pass by old hermitages, chapels, and religious monuments. One popular hike leads to Santa Cova (Holy Cave), where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary’s image was found. The Sant Jeroni trail, which takes you to the highest peak, also passes ancient ruins and remote spots where monks once lived in solitude. You’ll also see stone crosses, statues, and religious symbols along the paths, making the journey even more special.

Unforgettable Views

The views from Montserrat's hiking trails are absolutely amazing! You'll be blown away by what you can see up there – the gorgeous Llobregat Valley spreading out below you, the Pyrenees mountains on the horizon, and if you're an early bird, some of the most stunning sunrises you'll ever witness. And here's a little tip: the higher you climb, the better it gets!

Best time to go for a Montserrat mountain hike

Best season to hike

  • Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom, temperatures are comfortable (10-20°C), and trails are lively but not overcrowded.
  • Summer (June-August): Can be very hot, with temperatures reaching 30°C. Start hikes early in the morning to avoid midday heat.
  • Autumn (September-November): Similar to spring, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Winter (December-February): It can be chilly (5-15°C) with occasional fog or light rain, but still manageable for well-prepared hikers.
More about Montserrat weather

Best times of day to hike

  • Early morning (7-10am): Ideal for cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and fewer crowds. It’s also a great time for photography.
  • Late afternoon (4-6pm): Good for sunset views and a more relaxed atmosphere, but ensure you finish before dark.
  • Avoid midday (12-3pm) in summer to prevent heat exhaustion, especially on exposed trails.
More about Montserrat timings

Tips for hiking in Montserrat

  • Bring plenty of water – Few water sources are available, so carry at least 1.5–2 liters. Hydration is crucial, especially in summer.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes – Trails have rocky and steep sections, so proper footwear helps with grip and stability.
  • Check the weather – Conditions change quickly; bring layers for cold or rain and start early in hot months.
  • Avoid weekends – Trails and transport get crowded; weekdays offer a quieter and more peaceful experience.
  • Use funiculars or cable cars – Sant Joan, Santa Cova, and Aeri de Montserrat make steep sections easier.
  • Pack light but smart – Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a rain jacket, and a small first-aid kit.
  • Start early – Mornings are cooler, less crowded, and offer clearer views before clouds or haze set in.
  • Stick to marked trails – Montserrat has rugged terrain, so follow signs to avoid getting lost.
  • Watch your step – Some trails have steep drops or uneven surfaces; go slow and stay cautious.
  • Respect nature – Avoid littering, stay on trails, and don’t disturb wildlife or plants.
  • Be mindful of altitude – The highest peak is 1,236m; if you feel dizzy, rest and hydrate.
  • Charge your phone – Keep your phone fully charged for maps, photos, and emergency calls.
  • Know your limits – Choose a trail that matches your fitness level to enjoy the hike safely.

More Montserrat tips

Frequently asked questions about Montserrat mountain hike

Montserrat offers trails for all levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs. Some routes, like Sant Jeroni, require good fitness due to steep sections.