Montserrat Horse Riding and Walking Small Group Tour

Exploring Montserrat with Horseback Riding and Hiking: A Well-Rounded Day Trip from Barcelona

If you’re thinking about a trip outside Barcelona that combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure, this Montserrat Horse Riding and Walking Small Group Tour could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture of what it offers. It’s designed for those who want a peaceful escape from city life, with the bonus of discovering Montserrat’s stunning landscapes in a relaxed, intimate setting.

What makes this experience stand out for us is the small-group format—limiting to just 8 travelers—meaning you’ll get personalized attention and a more genuine connection with your guide. Plus, the combination of hiking and horseback riding offers a good mix of activity and downtime, making it suitable even if you’re not a seasoned outdoors person. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the moderate physical activity involved. If you’re less mobile or have mobility concerns, it’s worth factoring in the walking and riding segments.

This tour feels especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, want a deeper look at Montserrat beyond just visiting the monastery, and enjoy a bit of adventure without needing prior experience. If you’re after a balanced day that’s rich in views and cultural insight, this might be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with just 8 travelers for a more personal outing
• Includes horseback riding, suitable for beginners, with no prior experience needed
• Guided hikes along ancient Roman routes with fabulous bird’s-eye views
• Seamless round-trip transfers from Barcelona, making it hassle-free
• Rich cultural visits including entry to Montserrat Monastery and Basilica
• Beautiful natural scenery and geological formations in Montserrat Natural Park

An In-Depth Look at the Montserrat Horse Riding and Walking Tour

This tour offers a genuinely balanced mix of activities, sights, and relaxation, making it a compelling choice for many types of travelers. Here’s what you can expect, broken down step by step.

Starting from Barcelona: Convenient and Comfortable Transportation

The tour begins early, with a meeting point in the lively Eixample district of Barcelona. From there, you’ll enjoy about an hour’s drive in an air-conditioned van, which means no fuss and a chance to settle in while you leave the city behind. The route takes you through some iconic Barcelona sights, including Paseo de Gracia and Diagonal Avenue, giving a small taste of the city’s vibrant energy before you head into the calm of Montserrat.

Arrival at Montserrat: A Majestic Setting

Once you arrive at Montserrat, the view immediately commands attention. The natural park is known for its striking rock formations and panoramic vistas. Your guide will take you on a walk through this landscape, exploring the trails around the monastery. Expect to learn about the area’s geology, flora, and some interesting historical tidbits, especially since the guide embodies a wealth of knowledge, as confirmed by glowing reviews.

The visit to the Montserrat Monastery and Basilica is a highlight. You’ll get a chance to see the revered Black Madonna and enjoy some quiet time in the church. The basilica is a hub of religious and cultural significance, and your guide will likely share insights into its history and role in Catalan culture, making this more than just a photo stop.

The Trails and Views: Walking in the Footsteps of History

Next, you’ll set off on a guided walk along what are described as ancient Roman routes. This isn’t just a casual stroll—these trails offer fabulous bird’s-eye views and an opportunity to appreciate the rugged beauty of the park. One reviewer appreciated the short walk as “very special,” noting the stunning vistas and the chance to soak in the natural surroundings.

The walk lasts around 45 minutes, which is enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. You’ll likely encounter unique geological formations and maybe some local wildlife or flora, adding depth to the experience.

Horseback Riding: Gentle, Accessible, and Scenic

After your walk, the tour takes you to a local ranch for some horseback riding. This part of the day seems to be a major highlight for most travelers. The ride lasts about 2 hours, and the horses are described as “very tame and easy to ride,” making it perfect even for beginners or those with no prior riding experience.

The horses are well-behaved, and the owner is praised for being patient, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery. The riding takes place on a hillside farm with breathtaking views of Montserrat Mountain—a setting that many reviews say is “very relaxing” and “beautiful.” The ride is described as slow and gentle, making it accessible to most, including those who might worry about their physical fitness level.

One thing to note, based on reviewer comments, is that there was little interaction with the horses during the trail. While this could be a minor disappointment for horseriding enthusiasts wanting a more hands-on experience, for most visitors, the ride itself seems to be enough of a highlight.

Return Journey: Rest and Recharge

After the horseback ride, you’ll hop back into your van for the return trip to Barcelona. The drive is around 55 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day. Some travelers use this time to enjoy a quick nap or chat about the highlights before heading back into the city’s buzz.

Flexibility and Practical Details

The tour is priced at $113.49 per person, which, considering the inclusions—guided visits, horseback riding, entrance fees—offers solid value. The small group size (max 8 people) means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor some of the commentary to your interests.

The tour operates with a mobile ticket, adding convenience, and confirms its commitment with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind if your plans change.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

The reviews paint a consistent picture of a well-organized tour with knowledgeable guides. Caroline_D describes Montserrat as “absolutely a must to visit,” highlighting the “amazing views and history” along with the “engaging” guide, Frank. She notes that the horseback riding was a “nice addition,” though some might wish for more interaction or picture stops.

Steve_A’s comment about the horses being “tame and easy to ride” underscores how accessible this activity is, even for beginners. Devon_K mentions that the tour was perfect for their family of five, including kids aged 8 to 13, emphasizing the suitability for families who enjoy gentle outdoor activities.

Other reviewers praise the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful scenery, with one calling it “a relaxing way to enjoy the countryside in Barcelona.” The guide’s knowledge, combined with the scenic setting, seems to be a common factor making this experience memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals mainly to adventurous yet relaxed travelers who want a taste of Montserrat’s natural beauty and cultural significance. It’s ideal if you enjoy moderate physical activity, have an interest in history and nature, and appreciate small-group settings for personalized attention.

If you’re traveling with children who are comfortable with walking and riding, this tour is a good family option. But if you’re looking for more hands-on horseback riding or a more intense hiking experience, this might feel a little tame.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you value a well-rounded day combining scenic hikes, cultural visits, and horseback riding in a small-group setting, this tour delivers on all fronts. The guides are knowledgeable, the scenery is breathtaking, and the relaxed pace makes it accessible for most travelers.

However, if you’re seeking a more vigorous trek or more interaction with the horses, you might find this experience slightly limited. Still, for those wanting a peaceful, scenic, and culturally enriching day outside Barcelona, this trip ticks many boxes.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day out in Montserrat that balances activity, culture, and relaxation without feeling rushed or overcrowded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited physical fitness?
Yes, the tour involves moderate walking and a gentle horseback ride, both described as slow and accessible, making it suitable for most people with average mobility.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
You get guided visits, entrance to Montserrat Monastery, a one-hour horseback ride, guided walk through the park, and round-trip transfers from Barcelona.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Drinks and snacks are not included, so you might want to bring some along or plan to purchase them in Barcelona beforehand.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, based on reviews, families with children aged around 8 and up have enjoyed the experience, especially since the horseback riding is gentle and the walk is not too strenuous.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, sturdy shoes for walking, and perhaps a jacket if it’s cool. It’s wise to bring sunscreen and water.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a day that mixes nature, culture, and a dash of adventure, this Montserrat tour might be just what you need. It offers a gentle yet engaging way to explore one of Catalonia’s most iconic sites—an experience worth considering if it matches your travel style.