Like something out of a fairytale, the unique mountain Montserrat (Serrated Mountain) is one of the most important emblems of Catalonia and Spain.

Montserrat is famous at an international level not only for its mystical moonscape appearance but also for the Black Virgin Madonna contained within the 16th century Benedictine Monastery. This small, wooden statue of a black Madonna and child was found in a nearby cave in the 12th century. Since then, her miraculous healing powers have attracted many visitors from all over the world.

The tour will take you to up and around the mountain to a remote local village on the northern side. The world is tranquil here, a perfect introduction to the miraculous sites still to come. Following a short coffee (restroom) break, the tour will continue to the mountain monastery complex, situated at 700 meters above sea level. Once on the mountain, the group will split into three giving everyone freedom to do what best suits them. One group will make the spectacular mini pilgrimage to the Santa Cova, where the legendary black Madonna was found in a cave in the 12th century. It is not unusual to see locals doing this trip barefoot to give thanks for a miracle. Another group will go to the top of the mountain on funicular, situated at a height of 1200 meters. Here the views are stunning. The final group will do a tour of the monastery complex, to learn about the life of the Benedictine monks that currently live and pray there. They will have the opportunity to kiss the virgin Montserrat statue, a local Catalan tradition that brings good luck for the coming year.

At midday, all groups will join up again to enter inside the basilica in time to listen to the boys’ choir sing, renowned throughout Europe. Finally, people will have 30 minutes free time to do some shopping and buy some local cheeses, jewelry or ceramics. Later, the tour will journey to the foot of the mountain to a rustic and remote traditional Catalan restaurant for lunch. Learn how to drink wine from a glass spout container called a “porró”. Discover what to do with a garlic clove, tomato, olive oil and bread. Enjoy exceptional Catalan cuisine in an unbeatable location.

Cost was 72 euros in 2008, including admission and lunch. This tour will be by minibus or coach.