Please note some of my links are affiliate links, if you purchase via the link I might make a small commission, this does not affect the price for you. Thank you for understanding
The Sant Jeroni Summit in Montserrat is one of the best day trips from Barcelona! Montserrat is part of the mountain range 50km outside of Barcelona. The shape of the mountain range is unique and looks as though the conglomerate rock peaks have been cut into, hence the meaning of Montserrat “saw mountain”. The mountain is home to a Benedictine monastery called Santa Maria de Montserrat.
This hike was one of the best days during my time in Barcelona, getting there was fun, climbing it was rewarding and the views at the top were stunning! You will not regret coming here and it makes a nice change from busy Barcelona city.
Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona
Firstly you will need to get to Pl. Espanya train station. The best way to get here is by metro, Line 1 and Line 3 go to Pl. Espanya directly.
You will then need to take the R5 train from Pl. Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat, this will take 1 hour. Finally, unless you are hiking from the foot of the mountain (more on this in the next section) you will need to transfer to a green train called Montserrat Rack Railway, this is usually waiting for you, the station is small so you cannot miss it! This will take 20 minutes and is a beautiful scenic journey.
Another option is to book a tour which will pick you up in you accommodation in Barcelona city, drop you to Montserrat Rack Railway and then you will either do a self guided hike or be accompanied by a guide, there are a range of different tours to choose from.
When you arrive at Montserrat I can guarantee you will be blown away with the view of the mountain peaks. It put me in mind of Mount Rushmore! At the base there are souvenir shops and restaurants but they all close early (4 – 6pm) so if you want to eat or purchase a souvenir then do this before your hike.
How long is the Sant Jeroni Summit
This answer depends on where you start the San Jeroni trail. You can start this hike at either the foot of the mountain at Monistrol de Montserrat or after the Rack railway journey at Montserrat monastery.
If you start at the Monistrol de Montserrat it will take you 30 – 45 minutes to reach the Montserrat Monastery, it is a steep and windy climb but their are shops and cafes at the top to regain your energy before you begin the Sant Jeroni Summit.
From there the San Jeroni Summit is a 12km loop and takes about 3 hours to complete.
Sant Jeroni Summit
Sant Jeroni, the highest peak of Montserrat at 1,236 m and is the most popular trail. It is a moderate climb with many steep steps in first 30 minutes of it, after that it evens out and becomes easier.
This is an incredible hike with a unique landscape of conglomerate rock, jagged peaks and panoramic views.
The hike starts at the Abat Oliba Monument, where you will walk up many steps for next 40 minutes including the Pas de Francoeses Stairs. Keep following the signs for Ermita de Sant Benet.
After all the stair climbing you will arrive at Pla dels Ocells, here the hike evens out and you will walk through a shaded forest path for about 20 minutes to Ermita de Sant Jeroni. If you are lucky you might see a few mountain goats at this point.
The final section has a few more steep stairs, the views at this point become spectacular. Once you reach the top there is a viewing platform where many people are resting before starting the descent back.
What To Bring
- Plenty of water, about 3 – 4 litres. The stairs and heat will make you sweat alot!
- Wear trainers, not sandals. There are many concrete stairs and some forest path so shoes with a relatively good grip are better suited.
- A light rain jacket, it can get very windy as you reach the top.
- A few snacks, there will be no opportunity to purchase food until you are back at Monistrol de Montserrat.
Where To Stay In Montserrat
Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat is located beside the Montserrat Monastery, it is the best location to stay in in Montserrat. Hotel has a restaurant and bar onsite. Rooms are comfortable with Flat screen TV and seating area.
Montserrat Paradise Apartment is located at the foot of Monserrat, just across the road from Monistrol de Montserrat, the views are amazing. This duplex apartment has 3 bedrooms and can sleep up to six people, there is a large kitchen and living room, balcony, hot tub, spa bath and a sauna. You are also within walking distance to a number of restaurants, grocery store and bar.
Guilleumes Montserrat is a 16 minute walk to Monistrol de Montserrat, close to restaurants and a grocery store. The hotel is cosy and clean, rooms have a TV, private bathroom and heating.
Related Posts
