Hiking Montserrat Mountain, Spain: The Ultimate Guide

Montserrat is a dream destination if you love hiking and stunning landscapes.

With its jagged peaks, scenic trails, and breathtaking views, the mountain offers some of the best hikes in Catalonia. Whether you want a challenging climb to the highest summit or a relaxing walk with panoramic vistas, Montserrat has a trail for you.

After hiking Montserrat’s trails many times, I’ve discovered the best routes, viewpoints, and hidden spots that most visitors miss.

Ready to explore the “serrated mountain” on foot?

Here’s everything you need to know about hiking Montserrat!

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Getting from Barcelona to Montserrat Mountain

Here are your best options to reach Montserrat’s hiking trails:

• Train + Cable Car: You’ll get to Montserrat Monastery and you can start your hike there.
• Train + Cog Wheel Train: Get all the way up to Montserrat Monastery and can start your hike from there.
• Organized Tour: Same as the previous options, you’ll be transported to the monastery and you’ll have free time for a hike.
• Train: If you want to start your hike at the foot of Montserrat Mountain, you only need to go to Monistrol de Montserrat train station.

Top 5 Hiking Trails in Montserrat

1. Sant Jeroni Summit Loop

For a challenging yet rewarding hike, the Sant Jeroni Summit Loop from Monistrol de Montserrat is the best option.

This 13 km (8 mi) round-trip trail takes you from the valley floor to Montserrat’s highest peak at 1,236 m (4,055 ft.).

Starting in Monistrol, follow the GR-5 trail, also known as the Camí de les Canals i de l’Aigua.

This section is steep, gaining over 1,200 m (3,940 ft.) in elevation. However, it offers incredible views of the rugged landscape.

After reaching the Montserrat Monastery, continue towards Sant Jeroni, climbing stairs and rocky paths to the summit.

The top offers unbeatable 360-degree views, stretching from Barcelona to the Pyrenees on clear days. The surrounding nature is one of the top reasons that make Montserrat worth visiting.

Descend via the Camí Vell (GR-5/96) or return the same way for a full loop.

💡 Tip: This is the toughest of the Montserrat hikes. Bring plenty of water and start early to avoid the midday heat in summer or the nightfall in winter.

2. Montserrat Monastery to Sant Jeroni

If you want the best panoramic views in Montserrat, the Sant Jeroni is the hike for you.

This 7 km (4.3 mi) round trip takes you to the highest peak of the mountain at 1,236 m (4,055 ft.).

Starting from the Montserrat Monastery, follow the signs to Sant Jeroni. One of the most popular Montserrat hikes is well-marked.

The first part is an easy walk to Plaça de Santa Anna, where the funicular to Sant Joan drops off hikers. From here, the trail becomes steeper, with a mix of rocky paths and staircases leading to the summit.

At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views stretching to the Pyrenees on clear days. After taking in the scenery, return the same way or make a loop via the back route for a quieter descent.

💡 Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise from the summit. It’s unforgettable!

3. Montserrat Monastery to Sant Miquel Cross

If you’re looking for a short and easy hike with stunning views, the Montserrat Monastery to Sant Miquel Cross trail is a great choice.

This 2.5 km (1.5 mi) round trip takes about 30-40 minutes each way. It’s one of the best things to do in Montserrat and is perfect if you want a scenic walk without too much effort.

Starting from the Montserrat Monastery, follow the Camí de Sant Miquel, a well-paved path that gradually ascends towards the cross. The route of one of the easiest Montserrat hikes is lined with Mediterranean vegetation and offers fantastic viewpoints along the way.

At the Sant Miquel Cross, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the monastery and the surrounding mountains.

This hike is great if you want to experience Montserrat’s beauty without a strenuous climb. You can return the same way or extend your walk.

💡 Tip: This trail is best at sunrise or sunset when the light over Montserrat is simply magical.

4. Montserrat Monastery to Santa Cova

The Montserrat Monastery to Santa Cova hike is a short and peaceful trail that leads to one of the most spiritual sites on the mountain.

The 2.7 km (1.7 mi) round trip takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour and follows a well-maintained path with stunning mountain views. It’s among the easiest Montserrat hikes.

Starting from the monastery, head downhill along the Santa Cova Road until you reach the Santa Cova Funicular station. From there, a scenic path carved into the cliffs leads to the Santa Cova Chapel, where legend says the Virgin of Montserrat (La Moreneta) was discovered.

Along the way, you’ll pass several beautiful modernist sculptures depicting biblical scenes.

This hike is easy and mostly paved, making it ideal for all fitness levels. You can return the same way or take the funicular back up to the monastery to save time.

💡 Tip: Plan some time for taking photos. The rock formations and sculptures along this trail are worth capturing.

5. Montserrat Monastery to the Hermitages

If you prefer a less demanding route that still showcases Montserrat’s history and beauty, the Camí de les Ermites is a fantastic choice.

The 7 km (4.3 mi) round-trip hike takes about 2 hours and leads you past centuries-old hermitages hidden in the mountains.

Starting from the monastery, follow the signs for Sant Miquel and continue towards Sant Joan Funicular. From here, the trail branches off, leading you through a peaceful forested path with incredible views.

Along the way, you’ll see Sant Dimes, Sant Joan, and Sant Onofre, small hermitages once used by monks seeking solitude. Some are partially in ruins, adding to the mystical atmosphere of one of the best Montserrat hikes.

This hike is moderate with some uphill sections but is much easier than the Sant Jeroni trails. It’s a great way to explore Montserrat’s spiritual side away from the crowds.

💡 Tip: Keep an eye out for wild goats and birds of prey. The area is full of wildlife.

Tips About Hiking Montserrat Mountain from Barcelona

Where to Eat and Stay in Montserrat

While Montserrat is a great day trip, you might want to grab a meal or even stay overnight to fully enjoy the mountain’s beauty.

For a quick bite, the Montserrat Cafeteria near the monastery offers sandwiches, salads, and hot meals. If you prefer a sit-down meal, Restaurant Abat Cisneros serves gourmet Catalan dishes in a historic setting.

If you decide to spend the night, Hotel Abat Cisneros is your best option. It’s right next to the monastery, offering comfortable rooms with breathtaking views.

For a more budget-friendly stay, Alberg Abat Oliba provides dormitory-style accommodation.

What to Wear and Pack for Hiking Montserrat

Montserrat’s rugged terrain and changing weather mean you need to dress smartly and bring the right gear.

• Comfortable hiking shoes: Some of the trails are rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear with good grip is a must.
• Layered clothing: Temperatures can vary, especially if you start early or hike to higher elevations. A light jacket or fleece is a must.
• Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, the trails have little shade.
• Water and snacks: There are limited places to refill water on the trails, so bring at least 1.5 liters per person. Energy bars or nuts are great for a quick boost.
• Rain gear: Unless you’re visiting in summer, a lightweight rain jacket or a rain poncho can come in handy.
• Map or offline navigation: While the main trails are well-marked, having a digital or paper map can prevent unnecessary detours.

Weather and the Best Time for Hiking Montserrat

Montserrat has a mild Mediterranean climate, but the mountain’s elevation makes the weather unpredictable.

• Spring (March-May): One of the best times to hike in Montserrat. Temperatures range from 10–20°C (50–68°F), and the trails are lush and green. Bring a rain jacket to protect you from the occasional rain and beware of slippery trails.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). I can’t recommend hiking Montserrat in this season. If you still decide to go, start early in the morning to beat the heat. Avoid hiking midday, as the sun can be intense, and shade is limited.
• Fall (September–November): Another great time for hiking, with comfortable temperatures between 12–22°C (54–72°F) and fewer crowds. Pack a rain jacket against the occasional rain and be careful on the slippery trails.
• Winter (December–February): Cold and sometimes foggy, with temperatures around 5–15°C (41–59°F). Snow is rare but possible on the highest peaks. Pack layers and bring enough food and water. Start early to avoid returning in the dark.

How to Read the Markers and Navigate the Trails

Montserrat’s trails are well-marked, but knowing how to read the signs will make your hike easier.

• Trail markers: Look for white-and-red stripes (GR routes) or yellow-and-white stripes (local PR routes). These painted marks on rocks, trees, and posts will guide you along the paths.
• Signs with distances: Wooden signs at key junctions show trail names, estimated times, and directions to major points like Sant Jeroni, the monastery, and funicular stations.
• Arrows and cairns: Yellow arrows sometimes indicate alternative routes. Piles of rocks (cairns) also help mark the way on less obvious sections.

Most trails are easy to follow, but it’s always good to have a digital or paper map in case you wander off course. I’d also download apps like Maps.me or AllTrails to help with offline navigation.

FAQs About Hiking Montserrat, Spain

How long is the hike up Montserrat?

The hike from the base of Montserrat to the monastery takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. It covers roughly 4.5 km (2.8 mi) with a steep ascent.

How hard is the hike to Montserrat?

The hike up to the Montserrat Monastery is moderate to challenging, depending on your fitness level. The steep incline and uneven terrain can be tough, but the stunning views make it worth the effort.

What is an easy hike in Montserrat?

A great easy hike in Montserrat is the Sant Miquel Trail, which leads from the monastery to the Sant Miquel viewpoint. It’s about 2 km (1.2 mi) round trip, mostly on a gentle path with fantastic views.

Can you walk up to the Montserrat Monastery?

Yes! You can hike up to Montserrat Monastery from the town of Monistrol via the Camí de les Canals i de l’Aigua (GR-5) or the GR-96 trail. If you prefer a shorter route, you can take the funicular or cable car partway and hike from there.

What is the elevation gain of Sant Jeroni?

The hike to Sant Jeroni, the highest peak in Montserrat, has an elevation gain of about 550 m (1,800 ft.). The round-trip hike from the monastery is around 7 km (4.3 miles) and takes 2.5 to 3 hours.

Now You Know How to Hike Montserrat, Spain

And there you have it – everything you need to know for an unforgettable hike in Montserrat.

Whether you’re tackling a challenging climb or soaking in the views from a peaceful spot, hiking Montserrat reveals a side of Catalonia that most visitors overlook.

From scenic trails to breathtaking viewpoints, these trails will give you a whole new appreciation for the beauty of this magical mountain.