You’ll start and end the loop at the Montserrat Monastery complex. From here, walk up through shaded paths and stairways, keeping an eye out for named rock formations. The Gorros come first, a cluster of four needles. La Gorra Frígia is the tallest, topped by a cross, and it gives you a fine preview of Sant Jeroni rising behind. Keep a steady pace here, even though stopping every five minutes for photos is tempting!
The trail takes you through scrub and oak trees, then crosses a little wooden footbridge over the Santa Maria stream. From here, the path steepens, with steps cut into the rock and switchbacks that will take you higher, although they don’t feel sketchy. The views open and close as you hike between towers, which is half the fun.
A few minutes below the summit, you’ll pass the Hermitage of Sant Jeroni, which is a good breather spot. From there, it’s a short push to the viewing area on the top. On a crisp day, you’ll pick out the Pyrenees to the north, Barcelona’s plain far off to the southeast, and Montserrat’s spires right at your feet.
