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Saint Michael's Cross at Montserrat Monastery in Catalonia, Spain

Saint Michael’s Cross Montserrat

Walking the path to Saint Michael’s Cross at Montserrat is a must for the spectacular views.

Creu de Sant Miquel, as the cross is locally known, is located at the spot where pilgrims of yore got their first view of Montserrat Monastery. This was before the rack railway, cable car, and road were built and people climbed up on foot to reach the famous basilica.

The walk to Saint Michael’s Cross is a relatively short hike, about one kilometer (0.6 mile) each way, and easy to squeeze into a day trip to Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona.

St. Michael’s Path is semi-paved and wide, but good walking shoes are advised. It is shaded.

When you reach the viewing area at St. Michael’s Cross, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Montserrat Monastery and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the Pyrenees!

A view of Saint Michael's Cross at Montserrat in Catalonia, Spain
Can you see Saint Michael’s Cross at the edge of the mountain?

The cross stands at an elevation of 2,500 feet (762 meters).

At a leisurely pace, this walk should take about 40 minutes round trip, with the return being quicker and easier as it is downhill.

While the short hike to Saint Michael’s Cross is wonderful any time of the day, it is particularly beautiful and romantic at sunset, when colorful skies form a dramatic backdrop to the views.

Planning a trip to the historic mountaintop abbey? Bookmark our Montserrat Monastery website for the complete rundown on visiting Montserrat!