Martyna WojciechowskaFor those staying in Barcelona, a 48-hour itinerary offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, all within easy reach of the city. Montserrat, a magnificent mountain range just an hour outside of Barcelona, is the ideal starting point for an unforgettable adventure. From there, you’ll also have the chance to explore the historic town of Manresa, indulge in fine wine at Oller del Mas Winery, and experience the tranquil beauty of the Gorg de la Mola waterfalls in Sant Andreu de la Barca. With efficient train and bus connections between these destinations, you can make the most of your two-day adventure without the hassle of driving.
Day 1: Montserrat – A Sacred Mountain Just an Hour from Barcelona
Your adventure begins with a scenic train ride from Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat on the R5 train, which takes around 1 hour. As you approach the majestic peaks of Montserrat, you’ll be struck by the unique, jagged rock formations that make this mountain range one of the most iconic in Spain.
Montserrat is not just a natural wonder but a deeply spiritual place. The Montserrat Monastery, founded in the 11th century, houses the revered Black Madonna statue, or La Moreneta, which has become a symbol of Catalonian devotion. Pilgrims from all over the world visit Montserrat to pay homage to the Black Madonna and enjoy the peace and serenity of the monastery.
You can reach the monastery by taking the Montserrat cable car or by hiking along one of the many scenic trails. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, a hike to Sant Jeroni, the highest peak of Montserrat, will reward you with panoramic views of the entire region. From this vantage point, you can see the surrounding valleys, villages, and even Barcelona on a clear day.
Montserrat also offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature. The Montserrat Natural Park is home to diverse flora and fauna, and the many hiking routes provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re interested in religious history, hiking, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery, Montserrat is an unforgettable start to your trip.
Day 1 Afternoon: Manresa – A Town Steeped in Religious and Cultural History
After a morning spent at Montserrat, take the R5 train from Monistrol de Montserrat to Manresa, a short 30-minute ride. This town is rich in history, particularly for its connection to Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit Order. Manresa is where Ignatius had a profound spiritual experience in the 16th century, which led to the writing of his famous Spiritual Exercises.
While in Manresa, visit the Cave of Saint Ignatius, where the saint spent several months in deep reflection. The town’s historical center is full of charming medieval streets, beautiful squares, and notable landmarks like the Manresa Old Bridge (14th century). Don’t forget to stop at one of the local cafés to try some regional pastries and coffee.
Manresa also offers a wonderful mix of modern and traditional Catalonian culture. The town has its own charm, with a welcoming atmosphere and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll. From historical sites to quiet corners, you’ll discover something new around every corner.
Day 1 Evening: Oller del Mas Winery – A Taste of Catalonia’s Finest Wines
No trip to Catalonia would be complete without sampling its famous wines, and Oller del Mas Winery is the perfect place to do just that. Located just outside of Manresa, Oller del Mas has a history that stretches back over 1,000 years. The winery is known for producing high-quality wines, including cava (Catalonia’s famous sparkling wine), red wines, and more.
At Oller del Mas, history, family, and respect for the environment blend seamlessly. The winery is situated in a landscape nurtured by 36 generations, embodying a commitment to preserving the land for future generations. This place represents what they call “discreet luxury”—a concept where luxury is not about technological innovation or showy displays, but about integrating the richness of nature with premium comfort. The Oller del Mas Castle and its vineyards hold over 1,000 years of tradition, forming a deep connection with nature and shaping the winery’s approach to hospitality.
To get there from Manresa, take the T5 bus from the town center, which takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive, take a guided tour through the vineyards and the wine cellars, where you’ll learn about the traditional and modern methods used to create the winery’s exceptional products. After the tour, enjoy a wine-tasting session on the terrace, where you can relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The experience at Oller del Mas offers both a taste of Catalonian culture and the opportunity to unwind in a picturesque setting.
Day 2: Sant Andreu de la Barca – Hidden Waterfalls and Tranquil Nature
On the second day of your adventure, take the R5 train from Monistrol de Montserrat to Sant Andreu de la Barca, which takes about 45 minutes. This small town is home to one of the region’s most beautiful natural gems: Gorg de la Mola. Hidden in the forest, this tranquil path along the river, leading to various waterfalls, is the perfect place to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
The hike is challenging and requires a bit of agility, as there are large stones to climb over, and some sections can be quite slippery. There is also a part of the trail where you’ll need to take off your shoes and wade through the river, with the water reaching up to your calves. However, don’t worry – when we were there, a group of preschoolers was also following the path, with the help of their parents, and they managed just fine. So, you’ll definitely be able to handle it too!
As you walk through the lush forests, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves and flowing water. Once you reach the falls, you’ll be greeted by the sight of water cascading down the rocks into a crystal-clear pool below. It’s a peaceful, picturesque spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Catalonian countryside.
After visiting the waterfalls, head back to Sant Andreu de la Barca, where you can catch a train back to Barcelona, making it easy to return after a day filled with nature and exploration.
Traveling Between Barcelona, Montserrat, Manresa, and Sant Andreu de la Barca
One of the best aspects of this itinerary is the convenience of traveling by train and bar. All of the destinations are easily accessible from Barcelona and between each other, making it a hassle-free and affordable way to explore the region.
Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat: Take the R5 train from Plaça Espanya station to Monistrol de Montserrat. The journey takes about 1 hour.
Monistrol de Montserrat to Manresa: After exploring Montserrat, take the R5 train for 30 minutes to Manresa.
Manresa to Oller del Mas Winery: From Manresa, take the T5 bus to Oler del Mas Winery. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Monistrol de Montserrat to Sant Andreu de la Barca: Take the R5 train from Monistrol de Montserrat to Sant Andreu de la Barca, which takes about 45 minutes.
Sant Andreu de la Barca to Barcelona: From Sant Andreu de la Barca, take the R5 train back to Barcelona, which takes about 40 minutes.
These efficient train and bus routes make it easy to explore each destination without the need for a car, allowing you to focus on the sights and experiences of the region.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend staying overnight in Monistrol de Montserrat. It’s conveniently located between Manresa and Sant Andreu de la Barca, offering a quiet, peaceful setting to rest before and after your adventure. Staying here also puts you in the perfect spot to continue your journey the next day without rushing.
Final Thoughts
In just 48 hours, you can experience the best of Catalonia’s natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring peaks of Montserrat, the hidden beauty of Gorg de la Mola to the scenic vineyards of Oller del Mas, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. Thanks to the convenient R5 train and T5 bus connections from Barcelona, exploring this area is an accessible and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hiking, tasting fine wine, or simply relaxing in nature, this two-day getaway provides a perfect escape into one of Spain’s most breathtaking regions.
If you’re interested in discovering more trips around Catalonia, make sure to check out our article “5 Excursions in La Cerdanya para la Semana Santa“.
