Excursion to the Lakes and Covadonga from Cangas de Onís

Our review of the excursion to the Lakes and Covadonga from Cangas de Onís

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of Asturias’s most cherished sights—the Covadonga Lakes and Basilica—all wrapped into a convenient four-hour outing. For around $28.81 per person, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable bus, enjoy engaging commentary by knowledgeable guides, and soak up some of Spain’s most iconic landscape and history. The tour departs from Cangas de Onís at 10:00 am, with a planned return, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

What I really appreciate is the way this tour balances nature and culture. The scenery around the Picos de Europa National Park is as lush as it is dramatic, and the insight from guides like Daniel really helps bring the area’s tales to life. The highlight, for many, is reaching the shimmering Lakes of Enol and Ercina, which are spectacular even on a cloudy day—and even better with a guide pointing out fascinating facts. Plus, the Basilica de Covadonga is built with stones taken directly from the mountains, giving the entire site a feel of authentic local craftsmanship. And, of course, the Cave of La Virgen of Covadonga adds a spiritual touch that many find moving.

On the flip side, a couple of points to consider: the length of time at the lakes can feel a bit short, especially after hearing how beautiful they are. Also, some reviews mention overbooking issues, which, while rare, remind you that planning ahead and confirming your reservation is wise. That said, the guides, like Daniel (mentioned by travelers), do their best to make the trip enjoyable and informative despite the inevitable logistics quirks.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a mix of natural beauty and cultural highlights.
• Expert guides add depth and context to your experience.
• Spectacular views at the lakes and from the bus, ideal for photography lovers.
• Historic sites like the Basilica and La Cuevona add a sense of authenticity.
• Short stop duration at the lakes may leave some wishing for more time.
• Booking well in advance (about 25 days) helps avoid overbooking issues.

Exploring the Covadonga Lakes and Basilica: A Detailed Look

If I were to sum up this tour in a sentence, it’s a compact, value-packed way to see some of Asturias’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. From the moment you meet at the Estación de Autobuses de Cangas de Onís, you’re whisked away into a world of sweeping landscapes and ancient stone buildings. The bus ride itself is part of the charm—offering sweeping views of the Picos de Europa and the chance to settle in with a friendly guide like Daniel, whose lively commentary and interesting facts get you excited for what’s ahead.

The Picos de Europa National Park

Your first stop is the core of the Picos de Europa—a rugged mountain range famed for its lush greenery and craggy peaks. The tour timing at 10:00 am is perfect, as this allows for some great photo opportunities during the ascent. Expect a typical three-hour window at this stage, during which you’ll enjoy stunning vistas and learn about the park’s significance. Travelers from reviews consistently remark on the “incredible natural landscape” that surrounds you at every turn; it’s a genuinely invigorating start to the outing.

Lakes of Enol and Ercina

The lakes are undoubtedly the star of this experience. Our guides give a thorough explanation of their formation and history, which adds depth to your visit. Many reviewers note how beautiful these lakes are, with one describing the Covadonga Lake as simply “spectacular.” You’ll get great views from the bus, and the guide might point out interesting details, like how the lakes are part of Spain’s first national park.

Not everyone wishes for longer at the lakes—one traveler expressed a desire for more time, which is understandable given their picturesque scenery. Still, with a roughly 3-hour stop, you do get enough time for photography, a quick walk around, or even a snack from one of the local vendors if you’re hungry.

Basilica de Covadonga and La Cuevona

Next, the Basilica of Santa Maria la Real captures the eye with its stone construction that echoes the mountains’ natural hues. Sitting just outside the lakes, this imposing structure not only offers impressive architecture but also a glimpse into Asturias’s spiritual side. The guide shares stories about the building’s history and its connection to King Pelayo, adding a regal touch to your visit.

A short walk from the basilica leads to the Cave of La Virgen—or La Cuevona—home to the revered Virgin of Covadonga carving. This site holds great significance for locals, and for many, it’s a meaningful end to the tour. The guide’s explanations help visitors appreciate the religious and cultural importance of this sacred location.

Returning to Cangas de Onís

The tour ends back in Cangas de Onís, a charming town worth exploring further if time allows. It’s a small city with a friendly vibe, perfect for a relaxing coffee or a quick stroll to digest everything you’ve seen and heard.

Additional Thoughts on the Tour

The price point of $28.81 offers strong value considering the inclusions—guided commentary, transportation, and visits to all major sights. For such a popular destination, booking around 25 days in advance seems necessary to secure a spot; the high demand underlines its popularity.

The size of the group, capped at 49 travelers, strikes a good balance—large enough for socializing but small enough to keep the experience personal, especially with guides like Daniel, whose engaging style is frequently praised.

The logistics are generally smooth. Still, a few logistical hiccups, like the reported overbooking issue, serve as reminders to confirm your reservation beforehand. The tour itself is not suitable for people with reduced mobility, so if that applies, plan accordingly.

Who will enjoy this tour most?

If you’re someone who loves stunning scenery and enjoys cultural lore wrapped in a manageable day trip, this experience is a winner. It’s excellent for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed way to see Asturias’s highlights without the fuss of independent planning. Nature lovers will appreciate the panoramic vistas, while history and architecture enthusiasts will find the basilica and cave equally captivating.

Final thoughts

This excursion offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and expert narration. While the time at the lakes could feel limited for some, the overall experience provides a memorable snapshot of Asturias’s soul. The guides go out of their way to make the trip engaging, and the scenery truly stands out as some of Spain’s finest.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see Covadonga’s lakes and basilica, and you value good value and authentic insights, this tour is a solid choice. Keep in mind to book early and confirm your reservation—then enjoy the stunning views and stories that make this part of Spain so special.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, stops, and sightseeing.

Where does the tour depart from?
It begins at the Estación de Autobuses de Cangas de Onís at 10:00 am.

Is the tour suitable for people with reduced mobility?
No, it’s not suitable for travelers with limited mobility, as some sites involve walking and uneven terrain.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 25 days ahead is recommended, as the tour is popular and often sells out.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, guided explanations, and visits to the lakes, basilica, and cave. No extra charge for the main sights.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing; the weather can change quickly in mountain areas.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers an engaging, scenic, and educational way to experience some of Asturias’s most remarkable sights without the hassle of self-planning. It’s a rewarding option for those who want a taste of the mountains, history, and spirituality that make Covadonga so cherished.