Montserrat Mountains Trail Weekend 2026

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Montserrat, located just 30 minutes north of Barcelona, Spain, for a weekend filled with trail running and scenic exploration. This area is renowned among runners, hikers, and climbers who are drawn to its jagged peaks and winding trails that offer breathtaking vistas over Catalonia.
Your base for this adventure will be the charming village of Monistrol de Montserrat, nestled at the foot of Montserrat Mountain. The Hotel Guilleumes provides a comfortable retreat with stunning views and delicious meals, making it an ideal spot to unwind after days spent on the trails.
The weekend kicks off on Thursday evening as you check into your hotel and join fellow runners for a short run around Monistrol de Montserrat. This initial outing helps everyone get acquainted while acclimatizing to this unique setting before settling in with some local drinks at a nearby bar.
Friday morning starts early, with participants boarding the historic Cremallera de Montserrat Rack Railway for an awe-inspiring 5 km journey up into the heart of Montserrat Mountain. The railway climbs steeply through lush valleys and past dramatic cliffs to reach the famous Benedictine monastery perched dramatically on the mountainside.
From there, you’ll embark on a challenging yet rewarding 8-mile run (with about 3,200 feet of elevation gain) towards Sant Jeroni—the highest point in Montserrat. This route winds through jagged limestone formations and serene pine forests, offering breathtaking panoramic views from every angle. The ascent combines runnable trails with rocky stair sections, culminating at the summit where you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view stretching from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean.
After returning to the monastery for some well-deserved rest or additional exploration, take the railway back down—or continue running if your legs still feel fresh!
Saturday brings another day of adventure as runners tackle an even more ambitious route. This 12.5-mile trek (with approximately 4,800 feet of elevation gain) starts by ascending from Monistrol de Montserrat via the scenic Camí dels Degotalls trail. As you climb steadily through stunning valley views, this path offers a fresh perspective on the mountain’s terrain.
Once back at the monastery, continue your journey across Montserrat’s dramatic landscape along the forested Camí de l’Arrel route. This day features varied elevation changes and technical sections that keep runners engaged throughout. You’ll traverse ridgelines and rocky outcrops while enjoying sweeping views in every direction, with moments of true mountain solitude.
This weekend is a demanding adventure suitable for those who are well-prepared physically; participants should be able to cover the distances on UK trails at a pace no slower than 10-11 minutes per mile. The terrain varies widely from dirt tracks and narrow trails to steep steps and very technical rocky sections, requiring both running and hiking.
Join us in Montserrat for an unforgettable weekend of trail running amidst some of Spain’s most stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this event promises a chance to connect with like-minded individuals while pushing your limits on the mountain trails.