Montserrat & Medieval Winery with Tapas/Lunch

Experience a full day exploring the sweeping vistas of Montserrat and the charm of a medieval winery, all for just $62.25 per person with Castlexperience. Starting at the early hour of 8:30 a.m., this tour takes you from the busy streets of Barcelona to the serene mountains of Montserrat in about an hour. Led by knowledgeable guides like Vince, Elena, or Luca—who often earn rave reviews—you’ll visit the historic monastery, see the Black Madonna, and have plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Afterward, you’ll head to a castle-turned-winery, Oller del Mas, for a delicious Catalan meal paired with wine, tavern-style tapas, and a guided taste of three eco-conscious wines.

What we love most? First, the ample free time at Montserrat allows you to soak in the views, visit the Holy Cave, or catch a performance by the famous boys’ choir without feeling rushed. Second, the boutique winery setting—in a castle dating back to the 10th century—is an authentic and picturesque backdrop for tasting local wines and strolling through vineyards.

One potential consideration is the curvy mountain drive, which could be daunting if you’re sensitive to heights or motion sickness. Also, the tour’s schedule can sometimes be tight, especially if you want to spend more time inside the Basilica or the museum.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and good wine. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a small group, want a well-organized day, and enjoy flexible free time to explore at your own pace.

Key Points

Comfortable transport and small groups make for an enjoyable day trip.
Guided visits provide insightful context about Montserrat and the winery.
Ample free time allows personal exploration beyond the group’s schedule.
Authentic wine and tapas at a medieval castle blend history with gastronomic pleasure.
Flexible options—with or without lunch—cater to different preferences.
High praise from previous travelers highlights knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

A Detailed Look at the Montserrat & Medieval Winery Tour

Starting from Barcelona’s Plaça Catalunya, you’ll board an air-conditioned bus that takes you just about an hour into the Catalan countryside. The comfortable ride helps you relax and enjoy views of rolling hills and olive groves, setting the tone for a day steeped in history and wonder. With a maximum group size of around 20, the tour feels intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention.

What Makes Montserrat Special?

Montserrat is not just another mountain; it’s an iconic symbol of Catalonia. Its jagged peaks—gothic in shape—are a backdrop that has inspired artists, pilgrims, and hikers alike. Here, the monastery is a spiritual hub, housing the revered Black Madonna and a centuries-old boys’ choir, l’Escolania. The guided tour covers the basilica, giving you skip-the-line access, which means you won’t waste time waiting or missing out on key sights.

One of the highlights, as several travelers mention, is the free time post-tour. You can choose to visit the museum—home to works by Picasso, Dalí, and others—or walk to the Holy Cave, believed to be a sacred site. The funicular ride offers panoramic views from the mountain’s summit, a must-do for those who want to see the landscape from above.

A review by Lori notes, “Montserrat was absolutely breathtaking,” and many appreciate the chance to explore without feeling hurried. However, some visitors like altimate66 felt the 5-minute glimpse inside the basilica was too brief, especially if you’re interested in its architecture and history.

The Holy Cave and the Boys’ Choir

Don’t miss the Holy Cave—an important pilgrimage site—and, if timing allows, try to catch a performance by the l’Escolania, Europe’s oldest boys’ choir. Keep in mind, as some reviews point out, that the choir does not sing on Saturdays or during school holidays, so check ahead if this is a priority.

Transition to the Winery

After your mountain adventure, you’ll head to Oller del Mas, established in a castle from the 10th century. The estate sprawls across 1,500 acres, and you’ll have the chance to walk through vineyards and visit the cellar—learning about the traditional wine-making process from passionate local experts.

The wine tasting session features three organic, eco-friendly wines, giving you a genuine taste of Catalan terroir. The experience is often described as both educational and enjoyable, with guides explaining each wine’s character and pairing options. Many reviewers praise the wines—they’re a highlight, with Lori calling the tasting “spectacular.”

Food and Drink Arrangements

The tour offers two options for dining: a multi-course Catalan meal with wine or a classic tapas brunch. Both are served in the castle’s restaurant, adding a medieval ambiance to your meal. Several travelers mention the quality of the food and the relaxed pace, allowing you to savor every bite. The tapas option is especially popular among those who prefer a lighter, more casual experience.

What’s the Pace and Duration?

The entire trip runs approximately 9.5 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m. and returning to Barcelona in the late afternoon. The schedule is carefully designed to balance sightseeing, free time, and transportation, although some reviews suggest that at times, the visit to Montserrat could be a little rushed. Traffic and weather can also cause slight delays, so flexibility is key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a cultural enthusiast, a lover of scenic landscapes, or a wine lover eager to sample authentic Catalan wines, this tour hits all marks. It’s particularly suited for small groups who appreciate guided insights and the chance to explore independently afterward. Family groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a well-rounded day out will find it rewarding.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

For $62.25, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the skip-the-line access to Montserrat, guided visits, a delicious meal or tapas, and three wine tastings. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging. Plus, the flexibility to explore Montserrat’s sights at your own pace is a big plus—many tours don’t leave enough free time, but this one balances guided structure with personal discovery.

What sets this experience apart is the combination of spiritual, natural, and culinary delights. The stunning mountain vistas, the historic monastery, and the medieval castle winery all provide a multi-layered taste of Catalonia’s heritage. The guides, as most reviews highlight, are knowledgeable, friendly, and committed to making your day enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a day trip that goes beyond the usual, combines cultural sights with wine and food, and offers a small-group atmosphere, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be prepared for some curvy mountain roads if you’re sensitive to heights.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes shared transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, an English-speaking guide, guided visits to Montserrat and the winery, skip-the-line Basilica tickets, a multi-course Catalan meal with wine or tapas, and a wine tasting of three organic wines.

Does the tour cover inside the Black Madonna or the monastery?
Yes, you get skip-the-line entry and a guided visit to the Basilica and Monastery, giving you insight into this historic religious site.

Can I see a performance by the l’Escolania choir?
You might! The choir performs on most days, but not on Saturdays or during school holidays. Check ahead if this is a priority.

How much free time do I get at Montserrat?
There’s ample free time after the guided tour—enough for exploring the museum, Holy Cave, or walking to St. Michael’s Cross for spectacular views. Some reviews mention that the inside visit of the basilica can be quite brief, about 5 minutes.

What are the meal options?
You can choose between a multi-course Catalan meal with wine or a traditional tapas brunch. Both options are served in the castle restaurant, offering a relaxed atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers find it suitable, but note that Montserrat involves some walking and outdoor exploration, and the drive features curvy mountain roads. The guides are helpful and accommodating, but check your own comfort with these aspects.

Exploring Montserrat and a medieval winery with this tour combines scenic beauty, spirituality, and delicious wine in a way that feels authentic and well-paced. It’s a superb choice for travelers who want a balanced, engaging, and value-packed day outside of Barcelona’s hustle. Whether you’re into history, nature, or wine, this trip offers a little of everything—done with care, expertise, and just the right amount of free time.