The Escales dels Pobres in Montserrat
The Escales dels Pobres translates as the ‘stairs of the poor’. While wealthy visitors were formerly on mules, and on riding trails up to the summit of Montserrat, have had to take simple people these direct and arduous path in the rocks. Today, the Escales dels Pobres, get a prized wall. This way to the Montserrat mountain is the classic for all the mountains by foot want to experience. It is probably the most committed hike from Montserrat!
This is how you can hike across the Escales dels Pobres.
The trail begins immediately behind the monastery complex and leads directly into the Vall de Santa Maria. The hiking path through the rocks is characterized by approximately 800 to 900 irregular stone steps. They lead uphill right through the narrow rock faces. Over a relatively short distance, you’ll gain about 250 meters in altitude. The construction of the steps is incredible! They fit perfectly into the natural crevice between the towering rocks. You’re walking right inside the mountain. The walls close in so closely on either side that hardly any direct sunlight reaches the ground. Most hikers need about 30 to 45 minutes for this section .
The microclimate of the shady gorge
Thanks to its sheltered location in the narrow gorge, the ascent via the Escales dels Pobres offers a truly unique nature experience. While it can be scorching hot on the peaks in summer, a humid climate prevails here. Gnarled holm oaks line the path, forming a green tunnel that quickly absorbs the sounds of the monastery. It is a place of tranquility where you hear only your own breathing and the chirping of birds. Be aware that the stones are often slippery due to the high humidity, requiring full concentration and sturdy footwear, especially on the descent.
The transition to the wide plateau
After about 45 minutes of strenuous stair climbing, the terrain suddenly opens up. Here you reach Pla dels Ocells , the Place of the Birds. This point marks the end of the Escales dels Pobres (Stairs of the Poor). You have now completed the steepest section of the trail. It is an important junction in the Montserrat hiking network. From here, gentler trails lead to the summit of Sant Jeroni or the historic chapels.
Related Links:
- The starting point is the monastery of Montserrat
- all the information about Montserrat, Barcelona
- so you come from Barcelona to Montserrat
- here you can Montserrat Hiking
