5 things to do in Montserrat, close to Barcelona
Barcelona is mainly famous for being one of the most fashionable and atmospheric beach cities in the Mediterranean. However, few know one of its best secrets, just 1 hour from the centre of Barcelona is the largest mountain massif in Catalonia: Montserrat. In this article we tell you about the activities you can't miss in Montserrat if you are a mountain and nature lover.
30 kilometres from Barcelona stands one of the most impressive mountains in Catalonia: the mountain of Montserrat, whose pinnacles and amazing rock formations, the result of erosion, leave no one indifferent. But in addition to its breathtaking landscapes, Montserrat is well known for being one of the most sacred mountains in Catalonia. It is home to the monastery of Montserrat, dedicated to the virgin of the same name, also known as the Moreneta, patron saint of Catalonia. For all these reasons, Montserrat is one of the favourite mountains in Barcelona both for climbing and for a cultural visit in the middle of nature.
Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona is very easy, you just have to take the R5 train in the direction of Manresa that leaves every half hour from Plaza de Espanya station, accessible by metro lines 1 and 3. In an hour you'll arrive at the Aeri de Montserrat stop and from there a cable car that leaves every 15 minutes will take you to the monastery in 5 minutes. Another option is to get off at the Monistrol de Montserrat stop and take the rack railway, which leaves every half hour in high season or one hour in low season and takes 20 minutes. Now that you know how to get to Montserrat, it's time to decide what activities you want to do in Montserrat - there's something for all levels and tastes!
Canyoning in Montserrat
Of course, the Montserrat massif is perfect for lovers of hiking and mountain sports such as climbing, with famous peaks such as the peak of Sant Jeroni at 1236 metres. But if you are afraid of heights and prefer another type of activity, it is also possible to go canyoning in Montserrat through the canyons resulting from the erosion of the Llobregat river. The Joc de l'Oca canyon, in particular, is perfect for those who are just starting out in this sport, with a low difficulty and guaranteed fun thanks to its 13 rappels.
Via Ferrata Canal de las Damas
Near the Joc de l'Oca canyon, you will find one of the most famous via ferratas in Montserrat: the Via Ferrata Canal de les Dames. Vias Ferratas are perfect for those who are looking for a mix of sensations between climbing and canyoning and the Via Ferrata Canal de les Dames will not leave you indifferent. This via ferrata, of medium level, has a remarkable 250-metre drop over a distance of 3 kilometres.
Initiation to rock climbing
Of course, among the mountain activities, climbing in Montserrat is a must: the most fashionable sport. Specifically, Montserrat is the most famous destination in the world for fans of rock climbing. So learning to climb on these walls is a great opportunity, because in addition to the fact that the instructors will guide you at all times, as there are different lengths, orientations and styles, there are walls for all levels and tastes.
Excursion on horseback to the Monastery of Montserrat
If you are looking for an original and fun activity that allows you to connect with nature, a horseback ride around Montserrat is the perfect idea. As you trot along on horseback, you'll enjoy the views of Montserrat and its monastery. You will also be able to enter the Basilica of Santa Maria de Montserrat and learn about the life of the monks who live in this monastery. The activity starts in Barcelona with a tour of the city beforehand.
Ballooning
If you'd rather take home a souvenir for life, then get ready to experience a hot air balloon flight over Montserrat and contemplate this rock formation at an altitude of 800 metres, as well as the Anoia River and the Pyrenees at sunrise. A toast with cava will be waiting for you when you land.
As you can see, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, but very close to Barcelona, there is a whole world of possibilities and activities to do in Montserrat. In the heart of the mountain and for all styles, you'll find everything from the most adventurous to the most relaxing activities. And if you miss the city, you can always take a look at the best things to do in Barcelona.