If you’re planning a trip to northern Spain, especially to the Asturias region, you’ll find this guided day trip from Gijón or Oviedo offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty and historic charm. The tour, priced at $48 per person, aims to introduce travelers to the essence of Asturias — its lush landscapes, ancient stories, and coastal villages. It’s a long day (around 12 hours), but packed with sights that make each moment worthwhile.
What I particularly appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it combines nature and history. First, you get to see the Lakes of Covadonga, which are remarkably scenic, with their glacier origins creating a shimmering backdrop at more than a thousand meters high. Then, the visit to the Sanctuary of Covadonga reveals a fascinating mix of legend, religion, and regional pride, especially with the tomb of Don Pelayo and the cave housing the Virgin of Covadonga. Lastly, the coastal charm of Lastres offers a completely different but equally captivating side of Asturias, with cobbled streets and stunning sea views.
One potential consideration is the pace — this is a full day with about 2.5 hours of bus travel, so if you’re someone who prefers more relaxed, less packed excursions, this might feel rushed. Also, as the tour is guided in Spanish, non-Spanish speakers should review whether they’ll need a translation or a quieter experience. Still, for just $48, the value comes from the comprehensive itinerary and the chance to see some of Asturias’ most iconic sights in one day.
Key points and Takeaways
- Stunning natural scenery: The Glacial Lakes of Covadonga are truly picture-perfect, especially if you love mountain landscapes and scenic views.
- Historical significance: Visiting Covadonga means stepping into a place brimming with legends — from the Virgin of Covadonga to Pelayo’s tomb, it’s a spot thick with stories.
- Authentic coastal village: Lastres isn’t just picturesque; it’s one of Spain’s most beautiful fishing villages, with cobbled streets that still echo the past.
- Flexible free time: You get a couple of hours in Cangas de Onís for lunch and wandering, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine and markets at your own pace.
- Efficient logistics: Organized pick-up and drop-off points make this a hassle-free way to see key sights without worrying about transportation.
- Guided insights: The Spanish-speaking guide enhances understanding of the sites, legends, and regional culture, adding depth to the experience.
Entering The Natural Wonder: Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary
The highlight for many will be the Lakes of Covadonga. Set within the Picos de Europa National Park, these lakes are remarkable for their crystal-clear waters and the surrounding mountain scenery. The guides often point out the glacier origins of the lakes, which helps you appreciate their pristine beauty. Expect a walk around the lakes, with plenty of scenic photo opportunities. As one reviewer noted, “The views are breathtaking, especially with the mountains reflecting in the water.”
After exploring the lakes, you’ll head down to the Sanctuary of Covadonga, a site layered with legend. The cave housing the Virgin of Covadonga, also called La Santina, is a modest but deeply revered space. Nearby, the tomb of Don Pelayo, the hero who won the pivotal Battle of Covadonga, reminds visitors of the region’s early medieval roots. The Basilica of Covadonga nearby offers a grand contrast, blending religious significance with impressive architecture. The tour guides share stories that bring this area’s history alive, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cangas De Onis.
Cangas de Onís: The First Capital
Next, the journey takes you to Cangas de Onís, the first city of the Kingdom of Asturias. The town is small but packed with character, from its traditional stone bridges and historic streets to local markets. The freedom to explore for about two hours gives you time to absorb its atmosphere, try local cheeses or cured meats, or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch. Many reviews appreciate this pause, calling it “a lovely way to feel the local vibe away from tourist crowds.”
With its roots dating back over a thousand years, Cangas de Onís is a living reminder of Asturias’ heritage. Walking its narrow streets, you’ll see signs of its ancient settlement days, making it a great spot for history enthusiasts or those craving authentic regional flavor.
Coastal Charm: Lastres, A Fishing Village
The final major stop is at Lastres, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. This hilltop fishing port is pure coastal charm, with winding cobbled streets and fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. According to visitors, “Lastres is a picture-perfect village that has preserved its old-world charm,” and its panoramic views of the Atlantic are unforgettable.
A guided walk allows you to soak in the atmosphere, snap photos of the colorful houses, and learn about traditional fishing life. The scenery here is among the most striking of the tour, with rugged coastlines and dramatic cliffs framing the village.
Logistics, Price, and Practical Tips
The tour is organized with transportation by bus, which makes the long day manageable. Pick-up and drop-off are at convenient locations in Gijón or Oviedo, depending on your booking choice. The duration of 12 hours is quite full, and the itinerary is well structured to ensure you see each site with enough time to enjoy it.
For $48, the price covers the guide, bus transport, and entry to the Covadonga Lakes — a good value considering the number of sights visited. However, keep in mind that lunch and entrance to the sanctuary museum are not included, so budgeting for food or souvenirs is wise. Many travelers find the free time in Cangas de Onís useful for paying for a local meal or snacks.
The tour is conducted in Spanish, which is helpful for those who speak the language but might be limiting for non-Spanish speakers unless they bring a translation app or prefer a quieter experience. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect if you want a comprehensive snapshot of Asturias’ natural beauty and history in a single day. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, historical stories, and a taste of coastal life without the hassle of planning transport or guides themselves.
Nature lovers will adore the Covadonga Lakes, while history buffs will appreciate the stories woven into the sanctuary and Pelayo’s tomb. Coastal enthusiasts get a stunning visit to Lastres, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
However, if you prefer more relaxed, slow-paced trips or are traveling with limited time, this tour’s packed schedule might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those eager to see the highlights and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For $48, this guided day trip provides a well-balanced mix of scenery, history, and local culture. The stunning views at Covadonga are the most memorable aspect, making it a worthwhile experience for lovers of natural beauty. The stop in Cangas de Onís offers a genuine feel of old Asturias, and Lastres delivers picture-perfect coastal vistas.
While it’s a long day, the logistics are straightforward, and the guided aspect enriches the experience with context and stories that you might miss exploring on your own. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the transport and access included, though a bit of extra for lunch or souvenirs is advisable.
This tour suits travelers wanting a comprehensive, no-fuss introduction to Asturias‘ most iconic spots, especially those who appreciate stunning landscapes, historic sites, and authentic villages. It’s a great way to get a taste of everything that makes Asturias special — in one full, engaging day.
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, transport by bus is included, with pick-up and drop-off at designated locations in Gijón or Oviedo.
How long is the tour? The tour lasts around 12 hours, with about 2.5 hours of bus travel and time spent at each stop.
What is included in the price? The price covers the Spanish-speaking guide, bus transportation, and access to the Covadonga Lakes.
Are meals included? No, meals and drinks are not included. There is free time in Cangas de Onís for you to find lunch on your own.
Do I need to pay for tickets? Yes, the entrance to the Museum of the Sanctuary of Covadonga costs 3 euros per person and is not included in the price.
Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers? The guide speaks Spanish, so knowledge of Spanish will enhance your experience. Non-Spanish speakers should consider language needs beforehand.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs? No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
What’s the best time of year for this tour? While not specified, spring and early fall typically offer pleasant weather for outdoor sightseeing in Asturias.
Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This day trip from Asturias offers an engaging way to see the region’s highlights without the fuss, making it a solid choice whether you’re pressed for time or want a guided overview of some of northern Spain’s most beautiful spots.