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Monserrat
Barcelona, Spain
After two days in a very touristy Barcelona, coming out to hike Montserrat gave me the opportunity I needed to reconnect with nature and the mountains along with some amazing history, and very awe inspiring blend of the rugged terrain and ancient architecture.
The multi-peak mountain of Montserrat with the ancient Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria built into the side of the cliff is a spectacular sight to behold. Situated 45 kilometres from Barcelona, is good for a day trip including a fairly challenging hike from the train station up to the Monastery.
From the monastery you have breath-taking views of the Catalan hinterland and across to the snow capped Pyrenees in the distance. It is also a destination for pilgrims from around the world to see the Black Madonna.
While here, allow time to visit the museum, Basillica and the Creu de Sant Miquel which is about 1km walk from the Monastery. From the cross you have a magnificent view back to the Monastery built into the side of the mountain.
Trip Tips
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Both You can easily get to the base of the mountain from Barcelona either by train or car.
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For those not keen on the strenuous uphill hike, there is a a rack railway that takes you from parking up to the monastery that takes away most of the climb and distance. You could then take the out and back trail for a shortish walk to the Creu de Sant Miquel..
Hiking Tips
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The Montserrat - Creu de Sant Miquel loop is a gruelling 6km hike with an elevation gain of 500 metres. The effort is fully rewarded with a memorable visit to the Basillica and the magnicent views from both the monastery and from the cross perch right on top of another cliff.
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Keep an eye out for mountain goats along the trail!
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This hike and visit to the monastery is very highly recommended in your visit to Barcelona. Leave the city for a day and have a great day out hiking this spectacular mountain!
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