Leaving the busy streets of Barcelona behind, I boarded the train toward Montserrat, a place locals call the “Sacred Mountain.” The ride lasts only five minutes, but every second is filled with wonder. The cable stretches steeply across the Llobregat River, climbing toward the jagged peaks that gave the mountain its name — Montserrat, meaning “saw-toothed mountain.” As the car rises, the view of the valley, forests, and tiny roads below feels unreal.

When you step through the monastery gates, the energy shifts. The basilica square is often filled with visitors and pilgrims waiting to see La Moreneta, the Black Madonna of Montserrat. This wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, darkened by centuries of devotion and candle smoke, is Catalonia’s patron saint.

Inside the basilica, gold light dances off the marble, and the echo of choral music fills the air. I stood quietly as the boys’ choir sang — their voices pure and soft, rising toward the high ceilings. It was one of the most moving travel moments I’ve ever experienced.

Beyond the main plaza, Montserrat’s trails invite exploration. One of the most scenic spots is the Rosa dels Vents viewpoint — a circular compass rose carved into stone near the upper ridge of the mountain.

Standing there, you get a full 360-degree view of Catalonia: the sea to the east, the Pyrenees to the north, and the sprawling plains below. Few tourists make it that far, which makes it feel even more special.

The combination of nature, faith, and human craftsmanship gives the place a powerful balance. You can feel both very small and very connected here — like the mountain itself is listening.

Read the full article here: https://shanomag.com/2025/11/13/mystical-montserrat-cable-car-abbey-and-hidden-viewpoints/