From Cangas de Onís: Covadonga Lakes Guided Day Trip
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
The Covadonga Lakes and the Holy Cave of Covadonga are steeped in historical and cultural significance, central to the identity of Asturias. The Holy Cave is revered as the birthplace of the Spanish Reconquista, where, in 718 AD, King Pelayo, the first king of Asturias, is said to have taken refuge during his victory against Muslim forces at the Battle of Covadonga, marking the start of Christian resistance in the Iberian Peninsula. The cave, now a sanctuary, houses Pelayo’s tomb and the revered statue of the Virgin of Covadonga, known as “La Santina,” which mysteriously disappeared during the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) and was later replaced.
The Covadonga Lakes, Enol and Ercina, formed by glacial activity over 10,000 years ago in the Picos de Europa National Park, have been a pilgrimage and tourism destination since the 19th century, when the Covadonga Basilica was constructed in 1901 using pink limestone from the surrounding mountains. Guided tours from Cangas de Onís, a historic town founded near the Roman bridge, began in the mid-20th century as road access improved, with modern air-conditioned buses making the area’s natural and cultural treasures accessible to visitors. These tours, popular since the 1980s, blend history, spirituality, and Asturian cuisine, showcasing the region’s cider-making tradition and dishes like fabada, rooted in medieval peasant fare.
Highlights
- Admire panoramic views of glacially fed Lakes Enol and Ercina in the Cantabrian Mountains
- Visit the tomb of King Pelayo in the Holy Cave of Covadonga, the cradle of Spanish history
- Explore the stunning Covadonga Basilica, built with mountain-hewn stone
- Learn the intriguing tale of La Santina’s disappearance during the Spanish Civil War
- Savor Asturian specialties like cider and fabada in Cangas de Onís
Full Description
Embark on a guided day trip from Cangas de Onís to the breathtaking Covadonga Lakes and Holy Cave, blending history, nature, and Asturian culture. Depart from one of two meeting points at the Estación Municipal de Autobuses in an air-conditioned bus, winding through picturesque valleys and quaint villages toward the Picos de Europa National Park. Your first stop is the Entrelagos viewpoint, where you’ll spend approximately 110 minutes marveling at the mirror-like waters of Lakes Enol and Ercina, reflecting the rugged Cantabrian peaks—perfect for photos and soaking in the alpine serenity.
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Next, descend to the Covadonga Sanctuary, visiting the neo-Romanesque Covadonga Basilica, constructed in 1901, where your guide shares tales of its construction and local lore. Continue to the Holy Cave of Covadonga for another 110-minute stop, exploring the sacred site where King Pelayo’s tomb rests alongside the revered La Santina statue. Learn about its legendary role in the Reconquista and the mystery of its wartime disappearance. The guide’s commentary, offered in Spanish with English explanations, enriches the historical and spiritual significance of the site.
Return to Cangas de Onís for a 2-hour break, with free time to wander its charming streets, browse local shops, or enjoy lunch at restaurants serving Asturian specialties like fabada (bean stew) or queso Cabrales, paired with the region’s famous apple cider. Your guide can recommend top cideries or eateries. The tour, lasting about 6-7 hours total, concludes with a bus drop-off at the original starting point, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Asturias’s natural beauty and storied past.
Why Choose This Experience?
This guided day trip offers a seamless blend of history, spirituality, and natural splendor, making it a must-do for visitors to Asturias. The Covadonga Lakes provide postcard-worthy views in the Picos de Europa, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, while the Holy Cave and Basilica connect you to Spain’s foundational history through King Pelayo’s legacy. Unlike self-driving, which can be challenging due to narrow mountain roads and seasonal closures, the air-conditioned bus ensures comfort and access, even in snowy conditions when lakes may be closed, with alternative plans provided.
The tour’s moderate walking and bilingual guidance (Spanish with English explanations) make it accessible to diverse travelers, while free time in Cangas de Onís lets you savor authentic Asturian cuisine and cider culture. Ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or foodies, this affordable excursion delivers a comprehensive snapshot of Asturias’s soul, with expert guides bringing the region’s stories to life. It’s a hassle-free way to explore a UNESCO-protected landscape and sacred sites in one memorable day.
What’s Included
- Guided tour in Spanish with English explanations
- Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus
- Entry to Covadonga Lakes with 110 minutes of free time
- Entry to Covadonga Basilica and Holy Cave with 110-minute guided visit
- 2 hours of free time in Cangas de Onís for lunch and shopping
- Alternative itinerary if lakes are closed due to snow or ice
- Expert guide sharing historical and cultural insights
Itinerary
- Meet at Estación Municipal de Autobuses or Estación de Autobuses de Cangas de Onís
- Board the bus for a scenic 30-minute ride to the Covadonga Lakes
- Spend 110 minutes at Entrelagos viewpoint, photographing Lakes Enol and Ercina
- Travel 30 minutes to the Covadonga Sanctuary, visiting the Basilica
- Explore the Holy Cave of Covadonga for 110 minutes, including Pelayo’s tomb
- Return by bus (30 minutes) to Cangas de Onís for 2 hours of free time
- Enjoy lunch, cider tasting, or shopping in town (optional)
- Drop off at the original starting point after approximately 6-7 hours
Pricing
From $29 per person
Meeting Point
Estación Municipal de Autobuses or Estación de Autobuses de Cangas de Onís, 33550 Cangas de Onís, Asturias, Spain. Confirm your selected point (English or Spanish tour) when booking. Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
How to Get There
- By Car: Drive via N-625 to Cangas de Onís; parking available near the bus stations (free or paid)
- By Public Transport: Take ALSA buses from Oviedo or Gijón to Cangas de Onís, then walk 5 minutes to the meeting point
- By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis from nearby towns like Arriondas cost €15-20; drop-off at the bus station
- On Foot: From central Cangas de Onís, the stations are a 5-10 minute walk
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Passport or ID card for verification
- Comfortable shoes for moderate walking on uneven terrain
- Water bottle, as drinks are not included
- Comfortable clothing and layers for mountain weather
- Daypack for personal items and souvenirs
- Camera for scenic lake and basilica photos
Know Before You Go
- Moderate walking involved; not suitable for those with mobility issues
- Lakes may close due to snow/ice; alternative itinerary provided
- Tour offered in Spanish with English explanations—confirm language option
- No pets allowed on the bus or at sites
- Lunch and drinks in Cangas de Onís not included; budget €10-20
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to secure seats, as buses can be full
Reviews
- The tour involves a large group and a busy bus with some seating confusion, and the guide’s explanations were brief, but it’s a good option since driving to the lakes is tough—overall, not bad.
- A splendid morning with guide Santiago, who was very friendly and entertaining, embodying true Asturian spirit—highly enjoyable!
- It’s so nice—the lakes and cave were stunning, and the free time in Cangas was perfect for cider and food.
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FAQ's
What happens if the Covadonga Lakes are closed due to weather?
If snow or ice closes access to the lakes, the tour provides an alternative itinerary, likely focusing on additional time at the Covadonga Sanctuary, Basilica, or Cangas de Onís, ensuring a fulfilling experience. You’ll be notified in advance via booking contact, with no refunds needed as the tour adapts seamlessly. The crew monitors weather daily, prioritizing safety and enjoyment. This flexibility maintains the trip’s value, showcasing other Asturian highlights. Expect scenic or cultural alternatives like extra historical sites. It’s a reliable plan for unpredictable mountain weather. The guide ensures engagement regardless.
Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the tour is accessible for non-Spanish speakers, as it’s offered in Spanish with English explanations included, covering key historical and cultural details. Choose the English-supported option when booking to ensure clarity. The guide’s commentary is concise yet informative, and the visual beauty of the lakes and cave transcends language. Free time in Cangas de Onís allows easy exploration, with many restaurants offering English menus. It’s welcoming for international visitors. The experience feels inclusive, with nature and history as universal draws. Questions are encouraged to enhance understanding.
What kind of food can I expect in Cangas de Onís during free time?
In Cangas de Onís, expect authentic Asturian cuisine at local restaurants, including hearty dishes like fabada (bean and sausage stew), cachopo (breaded veal cutlet), and queso Cabrales (blue cheese). Apple cider, a regional specialty, is served via traditional pouring for a fizzy taste—budget €2-5 per glass. Lunch costs €10-20 per person, depending on the venue. Your guide can recommend top spots, from cozy cideries to upscale eateries. Vegetarian options are limited but available. This culinary break complements the tour’s cultural immersion. Bring cash for smaller establishments.
How much walking is involved, and is it strenuous?
The tour involves moderate walking, about 1-2 km total, across uneven terrain at the Entrelagos viewpoint and Covadonga Sanctuary. Paths at the lakes have gentle slopes but can be rocky, requiring comfortable shoes. The Holy Cave involves steps to access, which may challenge those with mobility issues—contact the operator for accessibility details. The pace is leisurely, with 110 minutes per site allowing breaks. Not strenuous for most, but those with limitations should plan ahead. The bus minimizes physical effort between stops. It’s manageable for fit travelers of all ages. The scenery rewards every step.
Can I bring my own lunch, or are there dining options in Cangas de Onís?
You can bring your own lunch in a daypack to save costs, as no meals are included, but Cangas de Onís offers many dining options during the 2-hour free time, specializing in Asturian cuisine like fabada, cachopo, or local cheeses. Cideries and restaurants range from budget-friendly (€10-15) to upscale (€20+), with most accepting cards, though cash is handy for smaller spots. Your guide suggests top picks for authentic experiences. Eating locally enhances the cultural vibe. Bringing food is fine but less immersive. Expect vibrant, welcoming eateries in town.
