Montserrat Express

 

Montserrat means ‘jagged mountains’ and its evocative name suggests a completely different scenario to the one we leave behind in Barcelona on this half day tour. It surprises that, just one hour away from such a vibrant and hectic city, this gorgeous site offers rugged nature, stunning mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere, providing a fascinating experience of contrasts, as we get captured by its beauty. Although known as a mystical, spiritual place, Montserrat has plenty more to offer. On our half day tour departing from the centre of Barcelona, we make the most of our time by starting a little earlier than the other visitors: we timed the tour to offer you a seamless experience and to allow you to arrive before most other visitors. This precious time advantage allows you to enjoy a better experience and avoid the daily queues that form in front of the Benedictine Monastery and of the world famous Black Madonna statue. Your transfer in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus will only last about one hour and during this time your guide will tell you all about the history about this fascinating site. The sight of the surrounding nature is absolutely breathtaking; take it all in as you do a brief orientation tour on arrival, and as your guide takes you to the Monastery. Wonder at the majesty of the Basilica with its gothic architecture. See the famous Black Madonna, believed by some to have been carved in Jerusalem in the late 12th Century. This Romanesque statue, entirely made of wood, is linked to a mysterious legend, according to which the Benedictine monks could not move the statue to build the monastery and were therefore forced to build around it, becoming soon a pilgrimage site. During your free time, you can take an optional cable car ride among the stunning scenary and the bizarre rock formation, to better appreciate the beauty of the area. Or perhaps you would like to spend some time learning more about the history of the site, visiting the interactive exhibition. If you are into art, there is even a museum of contemporary art, hosting masterpieces of artists such as Manet, Picasso and Dalì. Finally save a bit of time to savour the local specialties: from the herbal liquors to the local cheese and honey, these remote mountains produce a variety of excellent, genuine products you should definitely sample before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Barcelona! • Join us for the chance to explore the famous Montserrat minus the crowds, with comfortable private transportation from Barcelona • Explore the world famous Monastery, immersed in the rugged nature of the area, and the iconic black Madonna, having the priviledged of arriving before most of the other visitors • Enjoy a variety of options for your free time, including an optional panoramic cable car, a liquor tasting or a visit to the museum of contemporary art • Your expert local English-speaking guide will enrich your visit telling you all about the history of the area and • Limited groups of 25 people or fewer ensure you won’t feel lost in the crowd. Languages English.