The Montserrat walking and horseback riding tour is built for travelers who want a genuinely different way to experience the mountain, from the saddle rather than on foot or by cable car. The day starts conventionally enough, with a visit to the Montserrat Monastery and a guided walk through the national park, before the group heads to a local ranch for a one-hour horseback ride along mountain trails.

What makes the ride itself worthwhile is the scenery it opens up. Trails cut through forests and open viewpoints beneath Montserrat's distinctive peaks, with sweeping views that on a clear day stretch to the Mediterranean Sea in one direction and the Pyrenees in the other. It is a genuinely different vantage point than any bus tour or hiking trip offers.

Is the Montserrat horseback riding tour worth it?

Yes, if riding is specifically what you are looking for, and you meet the requirements. At €98, it is one of the pricier half-day options in our lineup, reflecting the cost of the horses and the small-group format. Where it falls down is for anyone who does not meet the stated age or weight requirements: the operator is explicit that it reserves the right to deny participation on the day, with no refund for the horseback portion if that happens.

What does this Montserrat horseback tour include?

The ticket covers round-trip transportation from Barcelona in a comfortable air-conditioned van, a guide, a one-hour guided horseback riding experience, a guided walk in Montserrat, entrance to the Abbey and Basilica, and accident insurance. Hotel pickup, food and drinks, and tips are not included. Riders must be able to meet the stated age and weight limits, which the operator enforces at check-in rather than at booking.

Who should book this tour?

Confident, able-bodied travelers who specifically want a horseback experience and are comfortable with a small-group format fit best. It is a strong choice for riders who have been on a horse before, since the pace and terrain reward some basic comfort in the saddle. It is explicitly not suitable for children under 12, wheelchair users, or people over 200 lbs (91 kg), per the operator's own stated limits.

Prices and what's included

Pricing starts at €98.10 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. The tour may be cancelled due to overly cold or wet weather, since the ride takes place outdoors regardless of the monastery visit. If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, the operator recommends contacting them before booking rather than finding out at check-in.

Getting there

Meet your guide at the benches on Passeig de Gràcia, 29, with departure promptly at 8:00am. This is one of the earlier departure times among Montserrat tours, which gives the horses and the group a full window before the afternoon heat sets in.

Insider tips for this tour

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing you do not mind getting a bit dusty, and bring water and snacks, since none are included. If you have any doubt about meeting the age or weight requirements, email the operator ahead of time rather than risk being turned away and losing that portion of the day's plan.

How this compares to other Montserrat tours

If horseback riding is not for you but a hike still appeals, our Montserrat monastery, cable car and easy hike covers similar national park scenery on foot. For a gentler, non-physical visit to the monastery itself, see the Montserrat cogwheel, Black Madonna and winery tour. For every active option in the area, visit our Montserrat hiking guide. For background on the monastery, the Santa Maria de Montserrat Wikipedia entry has more history.