From Gijón or Oviedo: Covadonga Lakes & Sanctuary and Cangas

Discovering Asturias: Covadonga Lakes, Sanctuary, and Cangas de Onís

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Asturian beauty and history in a single day. It’s a full 10-hour journey starting from Gijón or Oviedo that takes you through Spain’s first national park, the rugged landscapes of the Picos de Europa, and the charming town of Cangas de Onís.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is how it balances natural scenery with cultural heritage. I love the way it begins early with a visit to the Covadonga Sanctuary, a significant pilgrimage site and medieval landmark, and then transitions smoothly into the breathtaking Covadonga Lakes for some of the best mountain views Asturias has to offer. Plus, the stop in Cangas de Onís for lunch and a walk across the Roman Bridge adds a relaxed, authentic touch.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the tour’s length—at 10 hours, it’s quite full, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility and energy for the day. Also, since it’s a group experience, the small size (up to 9 participants) is great for personalized attention but might feel a bit tight if you prefer private tours.

Overall, I find this tour offers impressive value—covering key sights without rushing—and a chance to soak in both specific landmarks and the sweeping mountain scenery. Guided by knowledgeable local guides like Javier, travelers consistently praise the explanations and friendly atmosphere.

Key points / Takeaways

• First National Park in Spain: You get to visit the very first national park established in the country, making this a historically significant trip.
• Stunning Mountain Scenery: The Covadonga Lakes offer alpine vistas that are hard to match, especially from the Entrelagos viewpoint.
• Cultural and Religious Significance: The Covadonga Sanctuary holds deep religious importance, with the Holy Cave and Pelayo’s tomb adding a medieval flavor.
• Authentic Local Experience: Lunch in Cangas de Onís and seeing artisan cheese-making in the mountains give you a taste of local life.
• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to 9 participants, this tour fosters a more personal experience and interaction with guides.
• Informed Guidance: Participants frequently mention guides like Javier for clear explanations and answering questions, enhancing the experience.

Exploring Asturias in Depth: Covadonga Lakes, Sanctuary, and Cangas

When planning a day trip from Gijón or Oviedo, this tour stands out as a fantastic way to combine natural beauty with historical and cultural insights. It’s designed for those who appreciate a good mix of scenery, storytelling, and local flavor.

The Covadonga Sanctuary: A Pilgrimage and Medieval Treasure

Your first stop is the Covadonga Sanctuary, a site that has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. The sanctuary is built around the Holy Cave, where the Santina, a revered Marian figure, stands. Seeing the cave, with its spiritual aura, offers a sense of connection to Asturias’ religious traditions. The tomb of Pelayo, the first king of the Asturian monarchy, nearby, adds a layer of medieval history that’s palpable.

Guides like Javier are praised for their clear explanations and patience in answering questions, making this part of the tour both meaningful and accessible. As one traveler put it, “Javier was a wonderful guide. He provided clear explanations and answered all our questions.” The sanctuary’s architecture and the surrounding mountains evoke a sense of timeless devotion, making it a meaningful start to the day.

Covadonga Lakes: A Mountain Wonderland

After the sanctuary, the journey continues into the mountains for a visit to the Covadonga Lakes, a pair of glacial lakes that are postcard-perfect. The drive up the winding mountain roads is spectacular, and the atmosphere at the lakes is peaceful, with the alpine scenery reminding you of a Swiss postcard.

You’ll reach the Entrelagos viewpoint, where you can look down on both lakes and take in the surrounding peaks. This spot is perfect for photos and appreciating the scale of the Picos de Europa. You might enjoy hearing about how pastoral life and artisan cheese-making are part of these mountains, adding a layer of authenticity.

Cangas de Onís: A Charming Mountain Town

Midday, you arrive in Cangas de Onís, a town famous for its Roman Bridge—a striking stone structure that seems to connect history and nature. This is a great spot for lunch, where you can sample local cuisine and relax before the afternoon’s scenic drive. Many travelers highlight the charm of the town and the experience of strolling through its streets after a morning of exploration.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour includes fully licensed guides and transportation, which takes some of the logistical stress off your shoulders. Starting from Gijón or Oviedo, you’ll meet at a specified location—either the Oviedo train station or another local spot—and the small group size (up to 9 people) means you’ll get more personalized attention. The entire day lasts about 10 hours, which is quite a commitment but allows enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The cost is $79 per person, which is reasonable considering the full-day itinerary and inclusion of a licensed guide and transport. It’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, so bringing some snacks or planning for a meal in Cangas de Onís is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy nature, history, and authentic local culture, especially those interested in medieval Spain and mountain scenery. It’s ideal for active travelers comfortable with a full day on the move. Since children under 11 aren’t recommended, it’s better suited for older kids and adults alike.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

The combination of natural scenery and historical sites makes this a standout day trip. The Covadonga Sanctuary and Lakes are truly special, and the inclusion of Cangas de Onís adds a relaxing, local touch. The tour’s moderate price point covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the opportunity to experience some of Asturias’ most iconic sights.

If you’re looking to see the highlights of the Picos de Europa while learning about its medieval roots, this tour offers a practical, well-organized solution. Plus, the positive reviews confirm many travelers found it both informative and enjoyable, with Javier leading the way.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. Exact start times depend on your booking.

Where does the tour start?
You can choose between two starting points: C. Diario “El Comercio” in Oviedo or the Oviedo train station. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a fully licensed vehicle, making it easier to reach the mountain sites comfortably.

How many people will be in the group?
The group is limited to 9 participants, providing a more intimate experience and better interaction with the guide.

What’s not included?
Food and drinks are not included, so plan for lunch in Cangas de Onís and bring snacks if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 11 years, mainly because of the full-day schedule and walking involved.

To sum it up, this guided tour from Gijón or Oviedo offers a comprehensive day exploring Asturias’ natural and historical treasures. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic experience, comfortable transportation, and insightful guidance to understand the significance of Covadonga’s landmarks. With its balanced mix of scenery, history, and local flavor, it’s a trip that leaves many travelers saying it was the best part of their vacation.