Barcelona Hot Air Balloon Flight and Montserrat Monastery Excursion S3503

Description

• Round-trip transportation from the meeting point in Barcelona!
  
• Bilingual (English and Spanish speaking), professional excursion guide!
  
• Hot Air Balloon flight over Montserrat!
  
• Assistance from a 4x4 vehicle throughout the activity (permanent radio connection with the balloon)!
  
• Guided visit to Montserrat Monastery (only available on Mondays and Tuesdays)!
  
• Snack and Cava champagne toast, non-alcoholic beverages, and water are available!
  
• First Flight Certificate signed by the pilot!
  
• Photo story!
  

Discover one of the most spectacular landscapes in Catalonia in a unique way Capture images in mind and lens that very few have an opportunity to witness Experience this once-in-a-lifetime exclusive ... Read More

Discover one of the most spectacular landscapes in Catalonia in a unique way. Capture images in mind and lens that very few have an opportunity to witness. Experience this once-in-a-lifetime exclusive hot air balloon ride hovering high above the Monastery and the rocky, steeple-like mountain range.

If you are visiting Barcelona before, during, or after your cruise, or simply in town on Holiday, you must take advantage of this great opportunity to view Montserrat like never before. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a half day in natural wonder, where Heaven meets Earth! The peaks of Montserrat have been carved over the centuries by the wind and rain and can be seen long before you arrive. They stretch 4,051 feet into the sky. The curving mountain road used to access the monastery offers you incredible views out across the valley. Don't forget the camera because you will want to capture every moment of this stimulating adventure in your beautiful balloon! Up, up, and away!

Your professional, bilingual guide will meet you at a centrally located spot and transport you to the fly zone in Montserrat 90 minutes away. Enjoy the scenic drive along the way. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to assist in the inflation process before launching into your hour-long flight. You will enjoy a birds-eye view of the Monastery and surrounding area from your basket comfortably sized according to hold up to 12 passengers! Your flight time is approximately 1.5 hours depending on the wind speed and direction.

Following your flight, a 4WD car will pick you up at the landing spot and return you to the flying zone where your guide will escort you to Montserrat Monastery. Upon arrival, you will have a guided visit to learn more about the history and explore the site, which was founded in the 10th century and still functions to this day with over 150 monks. It is also well-known for hosting the figure of La Moreneta (the dark one), who is the patron saint of Catalonia.

Built into the cliff-side and its unique architecture makes this location a scenic wonder and a photographer's delight. Construction on the monastery began in 1025 AD, built on earlier Roman ruins, and soon began to receive pilgrims and visitors who spread the stories of miracles and wonders performed by the Virgin. In the late 12th century, a Romanesque carving of la Moreneta (the Black Virgin) was acquired by the monastery and it has drawn pilgrims ever since. The Royal Basilica has been one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Spain for almost 1000 years.

Your guide will bring history alive through their dynamic presentation of both the historical and cultural elements of this Monastery, dating back nearly a thousand years. Depending on the season and time of day, you may be treated to the angelic voices of Escolania de Montserrat, one of the oldest boy choirs in Europe as a feast for your ears. At this point, you will have an opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks if you so desire.

Once back in the comfort of your transport vehicle, you will be returned to your hotel or meeting point in Barcelona City where you can continue to explore at your own expense.

Note: Visiting the Montserrat Monastery is only available Mondays and Tuesdays.