Alberg Abat Oliba

The noise from parties and people on the street below carried on until the early hours, and there was no apparent effort to control it. Inside, a very strong chemical smell fills the building. This has apparently been an issue for years, judging by the reviews, but it still hasn't been dealt with. Don't count on much help from reception. They gave no information about meals, visits, or anything else that could improve a stay, and didn't offer breakfast for purchase. I also didn't get the room I'd booked, and staff were dismissive when I asked about it. I've had far better service at Albergues on Caminos across Spain, for less money. The staff there were extraordinary by comparison. Given the price of access and accommodation here, expectations have to be lowered. Some staff aren't great representatives of Montserrat and don't seem to enjoy their work.

We loved our stay as a family and would definitely come back. The location is incredible, and our room was clean and pleasant. The staff were friendly and helpful. The building had an odd smell, though it was bearable since the rooms themselves were clean. The services are very basic, just as we'd expected from what we'd read beforehand. Bring soap or shampoo for the shower, since none is provided. It's also worth packing earplugs: nights are so quiet that every small sound stands out. Birds singing outside our window at 4:30am sounded like an alarm clock.

The room was simple, clean, spacious and cheap, with a lovely view from the window over the monastery entrance and up to the rocks. It was completely quiet, which we really liked. The smell everyone mentions is still there, and it's unpleasant. I'm convinced it's from a cleaning chemical rather than mould, damp or drains. It seems like something that could be fixed by changing a product, if someone would pay attention to the reviews. One practical detail: reception isn't in the hostel building. Go to the Abat Cisneros hotel/hostel in the monastery courtyard instead. A very kind woman there gave us the key and information, and we booked dinner at their restaurant, which was very good. There aren't many other options.

The smell is gross and nearly unbearable. It seems to come from the bathroom ventilation, so shut that door and open a window as soon as you can. Staff at the hostel and at the Cisneros hotel seem well practiced at pretending to react when you ask what it is. It's cheap and basic, and it'll do if you just need somewhere to stay, but look elsewhere if comfort matters. Also, the floors all over the hostel haven't been mopped in months. You'll save money, but the stink is nasty.