The Flow of Visitors to Montserrat
Montserrat, an emblematic tourist destination in Catalonia, attracts millions of visitors every year. It has recently been revealed that approximately 60% of these tourists come from abroad, while among national visitors, 90% are from the province of Barcelona. This dynamic demonstrates the growing popularity of the monastery and its natural environment.
Interview with a Hospitality Expert
We spoke with Raimon Olivella, a professional with more than 15 years of experience in the sector, who has been managing Montserrat’s hospitality and catering business since 2014. With an academic background at the Sitges Hospitality School, Olivella supervises a large team of 130 people in various departments, including bars, cafes and restaurants.
A Unique Professional Path
His professional career began as a hospitality consultant, and his relationship with Montserrat began in 2006. After several training courses and a year of reflection, he accepted the position he currently holds. Olivella highlights the importance of ensuring that all services function properly to provide a memorable experience for visitors.
Visits and Reception Capacity
In a recent year, Montserrat received nearly 2.5 million visitors, with a record of 2.76 million in 2019. Olivella mentions that the daily average remains around 7,000 people, with peaks that can exceed 11,000 on holidays. However, he warns that an excessive volume of visitors can affect the quality of the experience.
Parking Logistics
Access to the parking lot, managed by the Generalitat, has limitations that can generate long queues, a fact that does not directly depend on the Montserrat team. Olivella highlights that access to the mountain is free for residents, an advantage not found in many other tourist destinations.
Visitor Profile
Most visitors are looking for a nature experience, with activities such as walking and exploring the surroundings. Olivella highlights that the diversity of the public, with 60% foreigners and a high percentage of local visitors, contributes to Montserrat’s appeal.
Employment and Personnel Needs
With a supply of 600 beds, the average occupancy is 58%. However, Olivella acknowledges that the lack of staff can be an obstacle during days with a large influx of visitors, especially when it comes to large groups.
Collaboration with the Monks
The monks of Montserrat manage their own kitchen, although they collaborate with the hospitality team on logistical aspects. Olivella highlights the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the monastic community, which has around fifty members, including escolans.
Reflections on the Beauty of Montserrat
The natural beauty of Montserrat, with its sea of clouds and majestic sunrises, is a spectacle that continues to captivate locals and visitors alike. Olivella shares his admiration for this landscape, which never ceases to amaze him.
