Hiking Through History in Montserrat – Spain

There are few things better than going on a really beautiful hike, but the location can make a huge difference in how memorable the experience will be. Montserrat mountain is the ideal place for a trek, striking a perfect balance of beauty with a rich history. Its unique geological structure was formed over the past millions of years and is one of Europe’s most remarkable natural sights.

A site of religious pilgrimage

The mountain, just northwest of Barcelona, brings around two million visitors each year on religious pilgrimage. Even if you are not religious, Montserrat is one place where a spiritual revelation of some kind is almost guaranteed. As the beating heart of Catalonia, it is just that special.

Over a thousand years ago, hermit monks walked the same paths that crisscross up the mountain today. When stepping on the mountain, you can feel the history in the air and the soil. Each path leads to a natural or historical wonder with views to satisfy any explorer. Head to the peak of Sant Jeroni, where you can see Spain glimmering in the sun in all directions. Or check out the Monastery, originally built in 1025, and then rebuilt in 1858, after Napoleon’s army burnt it down at the turn of the 17^th Century.

Hiking on Montserrat Mountain

The wide varieties of stunning paths on Montserrat Mountain vary in length and difficulty. This makes it perfect for any traveler, whatever their hiking skill level. With numerous sets of steep rock stairs and paths that scale the side of the mountain, experienced hikers will find a challenge, while for new adventurers there are numerous short, shaded paths that encourage meditation, without working up too much of a sweat.

For more information about visiting the Monastery at Montserrat, visit their website

My thanks for this guest article brought to you by BCN Travel – a local team that is dedicated to making your stay in Barcelona the best possible.

Photo credits: Montserrat by plsg77, Montserrat Mountain by kygp, other photos by BCN Travel.

More things to see and do in Barcelona

Barcelona: Portal to the Fantasy World of Gaudi
Where to find truly great tapas in Barcelona
Montjuïc in Barcelona – the hill that has it all

This article is originally published by Heather Cowper at Heatheronhertravels.com - Read more travel articles at Travel Blog Home

You’ll also find our sister blog with tips on how to build a successful travel blog at My Blogging Journey

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Barcelona: Portal to the Fantasy World of Gaudi

In this guest post from Beth Davidson, we explore the fantastical Gaudi world of Barcelona, from the fairytale atmosphere of Parc Guell to the fantastical architecture of La Sagrada Familia

Before I went to Barcelona, I had certain expectations stemming from what I had been told from friends and family and experiences I had had in other parts of Spain with their colonial architecture and typically Spanish landscapes.

When I landed, however, it was like I had stepped into the pages of a colourful children’s book or a highly descriptive fantasy world; the bubble of Barcelona. From Gaudi’s impressive buildings to the street performers that lined La Rambla, there is something awe-inspiring at every twist and turn. It felt like my eyes had been opened for the first time to a place so colourful and new yet so historic and cultural at the same time.

Parc Guell

The place that emanated this theme the most was Parc Guell, with its quirky Hansel and Gretel like architecture, winding paths, and lively buskers. Walking through this natural haven offered a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city that was visible from atop the hill, and even the crowds couldn’t diminish the magical atmosphere that swathed the urban park.

Whilst it is a hugely popular attraction, there were still nooks and crannies here and there that offered much needed seclusion. I could have spent hours just meandering amongst the vibrant tropical plants, stopping every now and again to marvel at the cute buildings that popped up.

It wasn’t just the park itself that instilled a storybook vibe, but the journey there too. Entering through the top means a lengthy trawl up an aggressively steep hill or the much more comfortable option of taking the outdoor – yes, outdoor – escalators.

As I rose higher and higher past quaint ice-cream shops and rustic houses, it felt as if I was ascending to a different world. When I reached the top, my feelings were confirmed as I was greeted by spectacular views across the city; the Sagrada Familia a toy version of itself in the distance. I was like a giant looking over the city that never sleeps.

Inside the park I made my way to the bottom, the scenery around me getting more and more fantastical the lower I went. The lower section is where you will find the hub of visitors swarming around Gaudi’s work; the topsy-turvy tunnel, the seating area shaped like a sea-dragon, the bubbly white steps leading down to the edge of the park. On either side of the exit sit two beautifully designed buildings that look as if they have been copied from a Dr. Seuss book and pasted into the centre of Barcelona; the perfect way to leave the dream-like world of Parc Guell.

La Sagrada Familia

Gaudi’s handprints are all over Barcelona and this is one of the reasons for its fantasy feel; he didn’t believe in straight lines so everything has a higgledy-piggledy exterior like psychedelic versions of their normal forms.

La Sagrada Familia is no exception. Queuing to get inside was an experience in itself – not a particularly pleasant experience in the midday Autumn heat. But, when you’re standing next to a building as magnificent as this, it is hard to be annoyed.

The exterior is an amalgamation of architectural aspects that in theory shouldn’t work well together, but in fact complement each other superbly. This mix of old and new, elaborate and sleek serves to impart a dream-like state over the building – one that doesn’t disappear upon entering.

Inside, the vibrant stained glass windows and smooth, glossy columns felt like yet another world; like a bubble inside a bubble. The elaborate, intricate details that adorn the exterior do not prepare you for the highly modern – albeit still unfinished – interior. It was almost as if two worlds had collided within the same building.

It isn’t just Gaudi that has characterised Barcelona as a page from a children’s book. The evidence is everywhere, including the highly touristic La Rambla. Walking down the wide boulevard is like entering into a comical theatre display with costumed performers providing entertainment against a backdrop of tapas food and souvenir shops.

The streets of Barcelona are at once a stage, a museum, and an art gallery with a dash of fantasy provided by the eclectic architecture, architecture which I can’t wait to go back and see. After all, everyone needs to escape now and again!

Author Bio:  Ever since she can remember, Beth Davidson has had a fascination with art, design and travel. After being bitten by the travel bug, she has been to numerous countries spanning three continents and is particularly interested in the way a places’ art can teach us more about its culture and history. Find out more about Beth and her interests at her World Art and Travel Blog.

More things to enjoy in Barcelona

Montjuïc in Barcelona – the hill that has it all
Where to find truly great tapas in Barcelona

Photo credits: Parc Guell by Sarah_Ackerman and Sagrada Familia by deming131 and LaPringle.

This article by is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com - Read more travel articles at Travel Blog Home

You’ll also find our sister blog with tips on how to build a successful travel blog at My Blogging Journey

 Don’t miss out – subscribe to Heather on her travels

Montjuïc in Barcelona – the hill that has it all

The hill of Montjuïc may look like any ordinary hill from an outsider’s perspective; however what many don’t realise is the hill is full of great things to do and see for visitors. With an incredible range of activities to please romantics, sports fans, art fanatics and culture seekers, you’ll be sure to enjoy a memorable day out on the hill of Montjuïc, Barcelona.

Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys

Montjuïc is home to the mighty 1992 Barcelona Olympic stadium and Olympic swimming pool. The stadium went under a serious makeover especially for the occasion and was the location of the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as all the athletics events. As for the outdoor Olympic pool, during the summer months the pool is actually open for public swimming which can be a great alternative to the overcrowded Barceloneta beach. Due to its high location, you can enjoy breathtaking views while you swim; many have even said it’s just like ‘swimming in the sky’.

El Poble Espanyol

Short of time? Well luckily at El Poble Espanyol you can visit all of Spain in one day. Within its streets you can walk past and admire over one hundred iconic Spanish buildings, enjoy the works of well known painters at the modern art museum, sit through a spectacular flamenco show, go on a treasure hunt and shop till you drop for traditional gifts and crafts. Basically El Poble Espanyol can offer a culture filled fun day out for all ages.

Fundació Joan Miró  and Palaü Nacional

The Fundació Miró is any art lover’s paradise, however even if art ‘isn’t your thing’ you may find that this surrealist museum / gallery is. Even the building itself has been designed to fit the surrealist environment. Miró’s works are fun, bright and colourful and despite not being one for galleries, I personally enjoyed every minute of my visit –especially when I got to witness Miró’s infamous sculptures. If one art museum isn’t enough for you, then you’ll be pleased to hear that you can also find the National Art Museum of Cataluña (formerly the Palau Nacional) further down the hill!

Telefèric de Montjuïc and the Montjuïc Castle

Tired of the uphill walk? Give your feet a rest and catch the cable car to the top of the hill. The Telefèric is a great way to sit back and relax whilst admiring the spectacular panoramic views. Once you’re at the top you’re rewarded by the sight of the Castell de Montjuïc. The castle is technically a fort which dates back to the 17^th century, and although relatively modern for a castle, it doesn’t lack history or stories – during the Spanish Civil war both nationalists and republicans were executed there. It’s also the only place in Barcelona where you’ll be able to find a statue of General Franco.

Magic Fountain

Last, but by no means least, this is perhaps my favourite Montjuïc attraction, if not one of my favourite things to see in Barcelona. Call me corny, but there is something very magical about witnessing colourful jets of water dancing along to some of the cheesiest music around. If you want to witness the fountain in front of the Palau Nacional coming to life for yourself, be aware that the timetable changes depending on what time of year you decide to come and visit. Generally during the winter the fountain only comes to life two times per week (on Fridays and Saturday starting at around 7pm) and in the summertime you have four chances to watch the fountain (Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting at around 9pm).

Make the most of Montjuïc and the rest of Barcelona by renting one of the many Barcelona Apartments available through Oh-Barcelona. This way you’ll be able to truly relax and enjoy your holiday with privacy and home comforts you could only find from staying in an apartment.

Photo credits: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys by Hugo Cadavez, Poble Espanyol by Oh-Barcelona.com, Miró museum by ginsnob, Parc de Montjuïc by laura padgett, Magic Fountain by Keith Laverack, and Montjuïc Palace by gerardo_chinchorro.

More Spanish pleasures

Where to find truly great tapas in Barcelona
From Malaga to El Chorro in the rain – Spain
Palacio de Marques de Dos Aguas – in Valencia

My thanks for this article to Oh-Barcelona, bringing you comfortable and affordable holiday accommodation in Barcelona

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com – Read more travel articles at Travel Blog Home

You’ll also find our sister blog with tips on how to build a successful travel blog at My Blogging Journey

Don’t miss out – subscribe to Heather on her travels