Montserrat & Winery Day Trip: Monastery, Tapas or Lunch

Summary

Montserrat’s peaks then wine in a 10th-century castle

You’ll stand beneath Montserrat’s wild peaks and walk through its ancient monastery before sharing laughter over Catalan wine and food in a family-owned castle winery. Expect quiet moments, new flavors, and glimpses of Catalonia’s history—with pickup from Barcelona and friendly guides who make it feel personal.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way Montserrat looked as we rounded the last bend—those jagged peaks just sort of hanging there in the morning haze. Our guide, Marta, was already telling us stories about monks and miracles before we even got off the bus. The air smelled like pine needles and something sweet I couldn’t place. I kept thinking, “How did they build a monastery up here?” We wandered through cool stone halls, and Marta pointed out this statue—the Black Madonna. People were lining up quietly to touch her hand. I’m not religious but it felt… important somehow.

After some free time (I mostly just sat on a bench watching clouds drift past), we all piled back onto the bus for the next bit—the winery. The drive down wound through vineyards that looked like someone had painted them just for us. When we pulled up to this old castle—Oller del Mas—I swear you could smell bread baking somewhere nearby. Our host, Anna, greeted us with that kind of easy warmth you only get from people who’ve lived somewhere forever. She showed us around the cellar—dusty barrels stacked under low arches—and laughed when I tried to pronounce “Sumoll.” (I definitely didn’t nail it.)

Lunch was slow and loud in the best way—clinking glasses, plates passed around, everyone comparing notes on which wine tasted most like cherries or grass or whatever else we imagined. If you pick the tapas option it’s lighter but still enough; if you go for the full lunch, pace yourself because Catalan grandmas don’t mess around with portions. Anna poured three wines for tasting—my favorite was drawn straight from a barrel that’s usually off-limits (VIP add-on). The sun hit the castle walls just right as we finished up and honestly, I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Montserrat visit and winery experience

• Board air-conditioned bus in Barcelona
• Scenic drive through the mountains
• Guided tour of Montserrat Basilica and Monastery
• Free time to explore Montserrat independently
• Attend l’Escolania de Montserrat choir performance
• Travel to Oller del Mas winery estate
• Enjoy multi-course meal or tapas brunch
• Stroll through vineyards and visit cellar
• Guided wine tasting session with three wines
• Return to Barcelona

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat?

The tour typically lasts most of the day—departing at 8:30 a.m., returning late afternoon or early evening depending on traffic.

Is lunch included at the winery?

You can choose between a light tapas brunch or a multi-course traditional Catalan lunch when booking.

Are entry tickets to Montserrat Monastery included?

Yes, skip-the-line entry tickets to Montserrat Basilica are included with your tour.

Is transportation provided from Barcelona?

Shared transportation in an air-conditioned bus is included; pickup is at the central office near Plaça Catalunya.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, dietary restrictions or allergies are accommodated even without advance notice.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but service animals are allowed; contact ahead for specific needs.

Do you visit Oller del Mas winery every time?

The main partner is Oller del Mas but occasionally another boutique family-owned winery may be used due to logistics.

What languages is the tour conducted in?

The tour is conducted in English by local guides.

Is there free time at Montserrat?

Yes, after your guided visit you’ll have free time to explore Montserrat on your own.

What’s included

Your day includes shared transport from Barcelona by air-conditioned bus, skip-the-line entry to Montserrat Basilica with a guided visit plus free time to explore, then a guided tour of a boutique winery set in a medieval castle—including either a traditional tapas brunch or multi-course Catalan lunch (depending on your choice) with three local wines before heading back to Barcelona. VIP upgrades offer exclusive cellar access and premium tastings too.