Barcelona: Montserrat & One More Thing – You Choose

Exploring the Montserrat & One More Thing Tour: A Balanced Look

Many travelers love the idea of combining a visit to Montserrat with an additional nearby destination — and this tour offers just that, with the flexibility to choose between Sitges, an olive farm, a winery, or Girona. Priced at $48 per person, it promises a full day of scenic views, cultural insights, and authentic regional flavors, all in about 6 to 10 hours.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is how it caters to different interests — whether you’re after stunning mountain vistas, seaside charm, wine, or medieval history. Its partnership with Abadia de Montserrat guarantees a certain level of quality, and the small-group vibe (max 24 people) helps keep things personal and enjoyable.

Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that optional entrance fees for the basilica or Black Madonna are extra, and some travelers might find that spending more time at certain stops, like Sitges or Montserrat itself, would be preferable. Still, for those wanting a flexible, well-organized day out from Barcelona, this tour hits a lot of the right notes. It’s especially ideal for first-timers who want a comprehensive taste of Catalonia in one day.

Key Points

• Flexibility in destinations allows travelers to tailor the experience to their interests.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledgeability and engaging storytelling.
• Comfortable transport makes the day relaxed and stress-free.
• Authentic regional experiences like olive oil tastings and wine pairings add depth.
• Timing and free time are well balanced, avoiding rushed visits.
• Additional costs for optional basilica entries could be a consideration.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This experience is built around the idea of customization—you pick your second destination after Montserrat. It’s a smart way to make the most of a day trip, especially if you have particular interests or want to avoid crowded sites. The journey begins with a scenic, comfortable one-hour drive from the centrally located Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Barcelona, which means you get to relax and settle in before the adventure begins.

Once at Montserrat, your guide (whose local expertise comes through clearly) offers a guided visit to the monastery, giving you insight into its religious and cultural importance. The highlight for many is the chance to see the Black Madonna, a revered icon, or to listen to the enchanting Escolania choir (when available). Reviewers mention that the guides handle logistics seamlessly and provide plenty of interesting details, making the experience more enriching.

Visiting Montserrat

The monastery and its surroundings are breathtaking. Whether you’re interested in visiting the basilica, exploring the nearby trails, or simply soaking up the views of the Catalan mountain range, there’s enough free time to do your own thing. Many travelers note that the early start helps beat the crowds, giving you a more tranquil experience in the sacred space.

Choosing Your Second Stop

Depending on your interests, you can select from four options:

• Sitges: This seaside town charms visitors with its whitewashed streets, sandy beaches, and lively promenade. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed walk, some shopping, or just unwinding by the water. One reviewer noted that they’d love more time in Sitges, suggesting it’s a highlight for beach lovers.
• Olive Oil Farm: For a taste of rural life, the visit to a family-run olive farm offers insights into traditional cultivation and production. The highlight here is the Catalan tapas-style lunch, paired with a tasting of premium extra virgin olive oils. The warmth of the family hosts makes this a genuine cultural treat.
• Winery: Wine enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to a carefully selected local vineyard, where tradition and storytelling bring the vineyard’s history alive. The guided tasting, paired with small tapas, offers a delightful introduction to Catalan wines, with grape juice available for minors or non-drinkers.
• Girona: History buffs and series fans will find Girona irresistible. This medieval city boasts a well-preserved old town, narrow cobblestone streets, and an impressive cathedral. Reviewers mention that Girona’s charm makes it a great way to extend your cultural experience beyond Montserrat.

The Experience at Its Best

We loved the way guides maintain a good balance between informative commentary and free time. As one reviewer praised, their guide “shared so much history and culture in the drive” and managed logistics smoothly. Another pointed out that, even with a three-hour exploration window, they wished for more time — a good sign that the stops are engaging but might leave some wanting longer.

Food and Drink

Particularly notable are the culinary offerings: the Catalan tapas lunch at the olive farm and the wine tasting at the winery. These are included in their respective options, giving value beyond just sightseeing. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of these tastings, the friendliness of the hosts, and how well the food complements the drinks.

Transportation & Size

Transport is in a shared, air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps the experience relaxed but also means you’ll be with a small group—max 24 people. This size strikes a good balance, fostering a cozy environment without feeling crowded. The driver and guide work seamlessly to keep the schedule on track, according to multiple reviews.

Timing & Flexibility

The tour’s timing is structured but flexible enough to allow for personalized experiences. Starting early is a bonus, especially for avoiding crowds at Montserrat. The length varies based on your chosen option, with the shortest being just Montserrat itself, perfect for those with limited time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers wanting a comprehensive, flexible day trip out of Barcelona. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a small-group setting, want to avoid logistical hassles, and enjoy regional food and drink. First-timers to Catalonia will get a good overview, while repeat visitors might find the options for deeper local experiences appealing.

Those with an interest in history, culture, or local gastronomy will particularly enjoy the wine and olive oil options, which add a layer of authenticity. The scenic views, combined with expert guidance, make this a well-rounded choice for those seeking a memorable, educational day with plenty of opportunities for relaxation.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers exceptional value for its price, especially when you consider the included tastings and the personalized attention from guides. Its flexibility means you can craft your ideal day—whether you’re a beach lover, a foodie, or a history enthusiast. The partnership with trusted local providers and the focus on authentic experiences make it a worthwhile pick for anyone wanting to explore Catalonia beyond the usual.

While optional entrance fees and limited time at certain stops are factors to consider, overall, this trip delivers a rich look at some of the most iconic sights and flavors of the region. It’s a convenient, enjoyable way to deepen your understanding of Catalonia’s landscape, culture, and culinary delights.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Your tour includes shared transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, a friendly English-speaking guide, and guided visits at Montserrat and your chosen experience. For the olive farm and winery options, specific tastings and meals are included.

Can I visit the basilica and Black Madonna?
Yes, optional tickets for the basilica and Black Madonna are available for purchase on the day, costing around €8-12. Some reviews mention that visitors must pay extra to access certain areas, so plan accordingly.

What is the best time to start the tour?
The tour begins early, which helps beat the crowds at Montserrat and allows ample free time to explore. Exact times depend on availability, so check your booking details.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 6 and 10 hours, depending on the option you select. Shorter options focus solely on Montserrat, while longer versions include Girona or Sitges.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers or minors can participate. At the winery, grape juice is provided, and the tour is generally family-friendly.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
You should inform the tour provider at the time of booking if you have specific dietary needs, especially for the lunch or tapas options.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Yes, each option provides ample free time for you to explore, relax, or shop at your destination, with guides offering recommendations.

In all, this tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and regional flavors, with enough flexibility to suit diverse interests. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or just want to enjoy some spectacular views, it offers a well-organized escape from Barcelona that’s hard to beat at this price point.