Barcelona always has a way of surprising you, no matter how many times you've been. On our fourth visit, we stumbled across a hidden gem—a stunning park graced by its very own Arc de Triomf. Picture lakes, golden waterfalls, lush tropical greenery, and even a zoo tucked inside this serene oasis. But the surprises didn’t stop there. We finally ventured out of the city to Montserrat, a breathtaking monastery nestled in the mountains. It's hard to believe we waited this long to explore such a remarkable place!

The Gothic Quarter is one of Barcelona’s most enchanting areas. The Gothic Cathedral, with its soaring spires and intricate details, is the centerpiece, but the whole neighborhood is full of medieval charm. As you wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll find hidden courtyards, ancient Roman ruins, and vibrant little squares where you can stop for a coffee and take it all in. It’s a must-see area that gives you a real sense of Barcelona’s history and character.

Parc de la Ciutadella is a peaceful haven in the city, and it’s hard not to be impressed as you stroll through the grounds. One of its standout features is the Cascada Monumental, a grand fountain adorned with statues and a golden chariot at the top. It’s a great place to relax, take in the scenery, and snap some photos. The park is also home to a lake where you can rent a rowboat, making for a lovely, leisurely afternoon activity.

But there’s even more to discover within this green escape. The park is full of lush gardens and tropical plants, creating a serene oasis right in the heart of the city. If you keep exploring, you’ll come across the Barcelona Zoo, and of course, the iconic Arc de Triomf standing proudly at the entrance. It’s a perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle while still being immersed in the beauty of Barcelona.

Montserrat, just outside Barcelona, is home to one of the most awe-inspiring monastery complexes you’ll ever see. Perched high in the mountains, this site is not only stunning but also deeply spiritual. The church itself is beautiful, but the real draw is the Black Madonna—an ancient statue that’s been drawing pilgrims for centuries. Whether you're religious or not, there’s something very special about the peaceful energy and beauty of this place.

Getting to Montserrat is an adventure in itself. You can take the train from Barcelona, and then it's your choice—either hop on the gondola for breathtaking views as you glide up to the mountain or take the rack railway if you prefer a scenic ride with less of a height factor. Once you're there, the funicular takes you even higher, offering stunning views of the unique, jagged mountain range that looks almost otherworldly. It’s definitely worth the trip!

We loved our fourth trip to Barcelona and discovering new and stunning places around this Spanish city. The small group tour we did to Montserrat was a highlight for us and we will definitely be going back on our next visit to Barcelona. Feel free to email me if you have any questions or thoughts a leanne@beachtravelwine.com

Our hotel was located in a great location right near the Gothic quarter. We were able to walk everywhere. The hotel had a rooftop bar with spectacular views and a really great value buffet breakfast. We stayed at the H10 Montcada Boutique Hotel.