Exploring Asturias from Gijón offers a captivating mix of rugged landscapes, historic landmarks, and picture-perfect villages. This guided day trip takes you into one of Spain’s most stunning national parks, highlighting the famous Covadonga Lakes, the historic Cangas de Onís, and the beautiful coastal village of Lastres. With a well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Asturias in a single day.
What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances nature, history, and local culture. First, the lakes of Covadonga are truly mesmerizing, especially if you love dramatic mountain scenery and stories of the region’s resistance. Then, exploring Cangas de Onís gives a charming glimpse into traditional Asturian life, complete with its Roman bridge and local eateries. And finishing with a visit to Lastres, perched dramatically over the sea, leaves you with unforgettable views and a sense of true coastal character.
A small downside to consider is the schedule—at 11 hours, it’s a long day packed with sightseeing. If you’re someone who prefers a slower pace or more time in each location, this might feel rushed. Also, on certain days when snow or ice block access to the lakes, alternative plans are put into place, so flexibility is key. Despite those points, the value and the depth of experience this tour offers generally outweigh the negatives.
Key points / Takeaways
- Stunning scenery: The Covadonga Lakes are among Spain’s most beautiful natural sights, with glacial lakes set against dramatic mountains.
- Expert guidance: Guides like Santiago or others are praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience enriching beyond just the scenery.
- Historic sites: The Basilica of Covadonga and the sacred cave provide insight into regional religious and royal history.
- Authentic village experience: Cangas de Onís offers cobbled streets, Roman bridges, and local cuisine, perfect for a taste of traditional Asturias.
- Coastal charm: Lastres impresses with its seaside views, colorful houses, and panoramic viewpoints—an ideal finale.
- Good value: With transportation, guided tours, and multiple stops included, this trip delivers a comprehensive day for a reasonable price.
Exploring Asturias in Depth: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís & Lastres
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gijon.
Starting Out from Gijón: Comfort and Convenience
The journey begins at Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Begoña, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a relief on warm days, and the schedule is tight but well-paced. Expect to spend roughly 1.5 hours on the bus before reaching your first stop. Having a guide with good commentary helps set the scene—be prepared for some parts in Spanish but with helpful translations.
Covadonga Lakes: Nature’s Masterpiece
The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the Covadonga Lakes, which include Lake Enol and Lake Ercina. These two glacial lakes are set high in the mountains of Los Picos de Europa, offering striking views of jagged peaks and reflective waters. This area is also significant historically, as it marks the site of the Battle of Covadonga, often considered the birthplace of Christian resistance in Spain.
Your guide will provide insights into the area’s history, while the stunning landscape speaks for itself. Be aware that access can be limited in winter due to snow and ice, so the tour may offer alternatives if the lakes are closed. When open, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to soak in the scenery and take photos—ample time to enjoy the moment without feeling rushed.
Covadonga Sanctuary and Basilica: Architectural Wonder
Next, you’ll visit the impressive Basilica of Covadonga. Its rugged stone façade, built from local rock, makes it feel like part of the mountain landscape. Inside, the basilica’s simple yet powerful design offers a peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, the sacred cave of the Virgin of Covadonga is another highlight. It’s a small but revered site featuring a chapel and a mystical fountain, set in a mountain-side grotto with a waterfall nearby. Visitors often find this place almost sacred, and many appreciate learning about its religious significance.
Cangas de Onís: A Taste of Traditional Asturias
After a short bus ride, you’ll arrive at Cangas de Onís, a town with cobbled streets, ancient Roman bridges, and a charming local vibe. The Roman bridge over the Sella River is a must-see and dates back to the 13th century. Many reviews mention the friendly guides, like Maura or Maria, who provide engaging commentary and tip you on local bites.
You’ll have around two hours here, enough to wander, explore shops, or indulge in regional specialties. Don’t miss trying the local cider, called “culine,” which is a staple in Asturias and often paired with traditional tapas, or “pinchos”. The town’s lively atmosphere and historic sights make it a great spot to connect with local traditions.
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- From Gijón: Luarca, Cudillero and Avilés Day Trip
Coastal Charm of Lastres: A Picturesque Finale
Your journey then veers toward the coast, passing by beaches like La Espasa, La Isla, and La Griega—noted for their scenic appeal. Finally, you’ll arrive in Lastres, often called one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Perched above the sea with colorful houses and narrow streets, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy panoramic views from the San Roque viewpoint.
You’ll have about 30 minutes here, enough to walk through the village, absorb the stunning scenery, and maybe snap that perfect photo. Reviews highlight the indescribable views, making it a fitting conclusion to a day rich in diverse experiences.
Practical Considerations & Who This Tour Is For
The tour lasts around 11 hours, making it suitable for travelers comfortable with long days of sightseeing. It’s especially appealing for those who want an all-in-one introduction to Asturias’ natural beauty, historic sites, and coastal villages without the hassle of driving or planning multiple trips. The inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and access to key sights makes it good value, particularly given the quality of the scenery and the depth of cultural insights.
However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as the tour involves a moderate amount of walking and some uneven terrain, especially around the lakes and village streets. Also, on days when access to the lakes is restricted, the tour adjusts, so flexibility is necessary.
This experience is best suited for those who enjoy a balanced mix of nature, history, and authentic local culture, and who appreciate guided insights from friendly, well-informed guides like Santiago, Marta, or others praised in reviews.
Price and Logistics: Making the Most of Your Day
For the price—generally considered reasonable—the tour offers extensive value: transportation in an air-conditioned bus, multiple guided tours, and visits to some of Asturias’ most iconic sites. The schedule is carefully curated to maximize your experience without feeling overly rushed, but keep in mind the long hours involved.
Meeting point logistics at Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Begoña are straightforward, with the guide wearing the Buendía Tours logo. Arrive 15 minutes early to avoid missing the start. The tour ends back at the same location, making logistics simple. You can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
If you’re eager to see the highlights of Asturias in a single day—without the stress of planning individual trips—this tour packs a punch. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness consistently earn praise, and the scenery at Covadonga Lakes alone would justify the trip. The chance to stroll through Cangas de Onís and soak up the coastal views in Lastres adds layers of cultural and visual richness.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy organized tours with a good mix of natural beauty and local flavor. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary, this trip is a compelling option.
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned bus is part of the package, making it easy to cover long distances comfortably.
How long is the total tour? The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at each stop.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Is the tour suitable for children? The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so it’s best suited for older children and active travelers. Not recommended for wheelchair users.
What should I bring? Be sure to carry your passport or ID, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and changing weather conditions.
What if the lakes are covered in snow or ice? Access may be restricted, but the tour provides alternative plans so you won’t miss out on a memorable day.
In the end, this guided trip offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Asturias, perfect for those who want a taste of its natural splendor, historic charm, and coastal beauty—all in one satisfying day.