Barcelona: Montserrat&One More Thing-You Choose(Small Group)

If you’re planning a day trip from Barcelona and want a mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural highlights, and a little taste of local life, this tour might be just what you’re after. It’s designed for those who appreciate the freedom to choose their next stop after visiting the iconic Montserrat Monastery — whether that’s a relaxing seaside town, a family-run olive farm, a charming winery, or a historic city like Girona. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-organized experience that balances guided insights and free time, making it appealing for a broad range of travelers.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are the flexibility of the options and the quality of the guides, especially their knowledge and genuine friendliness. The other thing we love is how early the tour starts and how it offers plenty of free time — meaning you avoid the typical crowds and can really soak in each destination at your own pace. That said, a potential consideration is the overall length — some might find a 9 to 11-hour day a bit long, especially if you prefer shorter excursions. Still, it’s a good fit for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without rushing.

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a small-group experience with personal touches, and if you want to customize parts of your day based on your interests. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning from guides, sampling local flavors, and taking in spectacular views, without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s less suited if you prefer a very relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, given the length of the day and walking involved.

Key Points

• Flexible options after visiting Montserrat allow you to tailor the experience to your interests.
• Small group size (max 19 people) means a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip, making history and culture come alive.
• Early start and ample free time help you beat crowds and enjoy each stop at your own pace.
• Includes transportation from a central Barcelona meeting point, making logistics easier.
• Variety of destinations—from seaside towns to vineyards—ensures diverse experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at This Montserrat Day Trip

Starting Point and Transportation

We love that the tour kicks off conveniently just outside the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Barcelona. The proximity to a luxurious hotel makes it easy to meet, especially if you’re already staying nearby. The transport is by private vehicle, which feels comfortable and allows for a smooth journey out of the city, usually taking around an hour to reach Montserrat. This arrangement means you won’t be stuck on a crowded bus or train, and your guide can handle the logistics effortlessly.

The Montserrat Monastery and Its Significance

Once you arrive at Montserrat, the focus naturally shifts to the monastery, which is not only a spiritual site but also a place packed with history and breathtaking natural beauty. The monastery’s basilica houses the Black Madonna, a revered religious icon, and optional tickets are available if you want to visit the basilica or see the statue up close. Many reviews mention that the guide provides insightful commentary about the monastery’s history and significance, which adds depth to the visit.

The views from Montserrat are truly stunning, and the hike options or trail walks around the area are highlights for those who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity. Travelers have praised the time allocated here, noting that three hours felt just right — enough to explore, soak in the views, and perhaps visit the basilica without feeling rushed.

Choosing Your Next Destination

This is where the tour really shines. Instead of a fixed itinerary, you get to pick one of several options based on your interests.

Option A: Montserrat & Sitges
Sitges is a charming seaside town often called the jewel of the Catalan coast. Its whitewashed streets, sandy beaches, and lively atmosphere make it a perfect spot to unwind after the monastery. According to reviews, the guided walk through Sitges is enjoyable, and free time allows you to explore shops or simply relax by the sea. It’s a great choice if you want a relaxed, scenic break from history and culture.

Option B: Montserrat & Olive Oil Farm
If you’re into food and local traditions, this option offers a warm visit to a family-run olive farm. You’ll learn about olive cultivation and the process of producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The highlight is the tasting session, coupled with a Catalan tapas-style meal. This experience gets high praise for the genuine hospitality and tasty food. Travelers remark that it feels personal and authentic — a real taste of Catalan countryside life.

Option C: Montserrat & Winery
For wine lovers, visiting a small, family-run vineyard offers more than just tastings. The guided visit explores the vineyard’s history, and the wine and food pairing is carefully curated to showcase local flavors. Minors get grape juice, so the whole family can join. Many reviewers have highlighted that the guide’s storytelling makes the wine tasting engaging and educational.

Option D: Montserrat & Girona
History and architecture buffs will enjoy this option, with a visit to Girona’s medieval old town and impressive cathedral. The city’s charming streets, narrow alleyways, and the historic walls are a delight. It’s a longer extension of the day, but those who love exploring ancient towns find it worthwhile. The fact that Girona has been a filming location for famous movies adds a fun layer for film enthusiasts.

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The Guide and Overall Experience

Multiple reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and passionate guides like Martin elevate the experience. Travelers mention that guides share stories and insights in a friendly, approachable manner, making complex history accessible and engaging. One review notes that Martin was especially attentive, even prepared with rain gear during a rainy day, which speaks to the level of care provided.

The small group size means you won’t feel lost or rushed, and you can ask questions freely. The early start means beating the crowds at Montserrat, especially important if you prefer a more peaceful experience.

The Value for Money

Given that the tour includes transportation, a guided experience, and in some options, meals and tastings, it offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive day trip. The flexibility to choose your ending makes it adaptable to different interests, and the small group size adds a personal touch. For around 9 to 11 hours, it’s a full day that covers a lot of ground without feeling overly packed.

Possible Drawbacks

The one thing to keep in mind is the length of the day — it can be quite long, especially if you choose the Girona extension. Also, the tour is designed for those who enjoy some walking and outdoor time, so it might not suit visitors with mobility issues or those looking for a shorter experience. Weather can also influence certain aspects, like trails or outdoor tastings, but guides seem prepared for this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who love learning and want a personalized day out. If you’re keen on exploring Montserrat with insightful guides and want the flexibility to visit a seaside town, a farm, or a historic city, this tour caters well to your interests. It’s suitable for those who enjoy a mix of cultural, culinary, and scenic experiences within a manageable group setting.

While not specifically tailored for very young children or those seeking a quick overview, families with older kids who enjoy outdoor activities might find it rewarding. The key is valuing comfort, flexibility, and quality over brevity.

FAQs About This Tour

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins just outside the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Barcelona, making it easy to find, especially if you’re staying nearby.

How long is the tour?
It lasts between 9 and 11 hours, including travel, visits, and free time. It’s a full-day experience, so plan accordingly.

Can I choose my next stop after Montserrat?
Yes, the tour offers four options: Sitges, an olive farm, a winery, or Girona. You select the one you prefer when booking.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is included only if you choose Option B: Montserrat & Olive Oil Farm, which features a Catalan tapas-style meal. The winery option includes small tapas and wine tastings.

Are there wine tastings?
Yes, the winery visit features a guided tasting session, with wine paired with small bites. Minors will receive grape juice.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoors.

Are tickets to the Black Madonna or Basilica included?
Tickets are optional, and the guide can provide insights into these cultural highlights.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 19 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded way to experience Montserrat and beyond, blending guided insights with free time to explore. Its flexibility makes it appealing for those who want to personalize their day, and the small group setting fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or someone eager to relax in a seaside town, there’s an option that will suit your mood.

The guides, especially those like Martin, seem to make the experience memorable with their knowledge and attentiveness. The inclusion of meals and tastings adds value, making it more than just a sightseeing pass — it’s an immersive taste of Catalonia. While the length might be a stretch for some, for those wanting a comprehensive, flexible day out, this trip hits the mark.

If the idea of combining cultural sights, scenic views, and local flavors sounds appealing, this tour is worth considering. Just think about what interests you most and pick the option that excites you the most — your perfect Catalan day awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: