Montserrat is a mountain, a unique Natural Park, a massive rock over 4,000 feet high, visible for miles, with weird shapes and rounded peaks that jut into the sky; there are walks, paths, stairs, with caves and hermitages scattered over the mountain, and mysterious rocks and wonderful views. Half way up the mountain and sheltered by its peaks, is a Benedictine monastery nearly 1,000 years old. This is the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Montserrat, popularly called the Moreneta as she is black, patron saint of Catalunya and a presence strongly felt and revered. The community of monks also runs a boys' school devoted to the study of music, and a famous choir.

Departing from Barcelona, you will drive north crossing the Llobregat River to the Parc Natural de Montserrat. Your guide will entertain you with tales, history and legends of the mountain, the monastery and the shrine. Upon arriving at the sanctuary, which is at a height of 2,380 feet above sea level, you will begin a guided orientation tour. They will point out the main places of interest: monastery, basilica, museum with a marvelous collection of paintings, Stations of the Cross, as well as bars, restaurants, shops and home products market. Silence must be kept inside the church so your guide will give you explanations outside and show you Our Lady's Chapel with the 12th Century figure of Our Lady of Montserrat. You will then have free time to dedicate to the aspects of this beautiful and spiritual place that attract you most. As a visit to the museum is optional, the admission to the museum is not included in your tour price. You will then drive back to Barcelona via an alternative route to the sounds of traditional Catalan music.