Tebes Trail

We are a family of scientists - ages 11 – 51 and Richard was the dream guide for us - not only knew the region and trails so well but also was deeply knowledgeable about the plants and geology. So often when we’re hiking on our own we wonder about some of the rock formations or particular plants we haven’t seen before and it’s difficult to find the answers on your own. Here Richard always had the answers we were hoping for - and better yet pointed out things we would have missed. Conglomerate rocks within conglomerate rocks from even more eons ago, plants with white edges that excrete calcite and many more. Science is just one part of the experience - Richard also did a fantastic job explaining the historical and spiritual context of the sites we hiked through. Richard explained the different spiritual aspects of the location, the history of the hermitages we visited and had even met many of the monks in his experience climbing in Montserrat. We learned a lot about Catalan traditions and history as well. Everyone loved the hike too – our kids are always wanting to go off on unmarked paths and Richard’s path included some of those that they were really excited about. I am a wimp about exposed heights, but I felt safe the whole time (even at the summit) and Richard was always making sure people had a helping hand and knew how best to approach the terrain. Since the tour alternated between hiking and then stopping to hear some history, the kids were able to take in a lot more information than they might have from trying to read in a museum or book. Our boys are eager to go back and learn some climbing with equipment from Richard when they are a bit older. Our trip lasted about 3 and a half hours and we all felt it was so full that it felt more like 8. Richard is such a wise person, we all learned so much. It was the highlight of our Barcelona trip and it would be hard to recommend it enough!

Ricard is an experienced guide, naturalist and historian of this sacred place. If you want to understand the miracles that come together between man and nature at Montserrat, there is no better person to follow. He is a courteous and insightful scholar to commune with as you enter into the ritual of ascending this temple of nature. Magical is key word. Enjoy!!!

WOW! I'm sure Montserrat is beautiful without a guide, but get a guide! And get Ricard! He knows an incredible amount about the monastery and mountain - not just from a history/religion point of view, but also scientifically because he is a geologist. He will tell you about the plants and wildlife, too. The extra trails and stories make the hike worth far more than you're paying. The hike itself is not overly complicated, but it's also not simple. Ricard is very caring, will help you through the tough spots and check to make sure you're doing okay throughout. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My husband and I agree that this was the best thing we did during our time in Barcelona.