From Gijón: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís and Lastres

Explore Asturias’ Natural Beauty and Historic Sites on a Full-Day Trip from Gijón

This 11-hour guided tour from Gijón takes you through some of Asturias’ most beloved sights: the Covadonga Lakes, the charming Cangas de Onís, and the picturesque village of Lastres. Priced affordably and led by knowledgeable guides, this experience offers a deep dive into the region’s natural splendor and cultural treasures.

You’ll encounter spectacular views, learn about local history, and enjoy authentic Asturian cuisine. The tour’s highlight is the visit to Covadonga, with its stunning lakes and historic basilica, complemented by a scenic drive along the Cantabrian coast. While the itinerary is comprehensive, a key consideration is the moderate walking involved, and weather conditions may sometimes limit access to certain sites.

This tour appeals to those interested in nature, history, and regional culture, especially visitors who want to explore without the hassle of driving. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect the quality of guides, the beauty of the landscapes, and the value for money.

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Key Points

• Duration of 11 hours from Gijón with multiple sightseeing stops
• Visit the Covadonga Lakes, including Lake Ercina and Lake Enol, in Spain’s first national park
• Tour the Basilica of Covadonga and the sacred cave of the Virgin of Covadonga
• Explore Cangas de Onís, with its Roman bridge and local eateries
• Discover Lastres, a stunning village with an incredible viewpoint over the coast
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned bus, guided tours, and free time at each stop

Starting Point and Transportation Details in Gijón

The tour begins at Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Begoña, where guides with the Buendía Tours logo meet travelers. Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The air-conditioned bus makes comfort a priority during the long day, and the journey includes multiple stops with scenic drives along the coast and countryside.

The return trip concludes back at the same starting point, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. The tour’s strict schedule means punctuality is important, as guides cannot wait for late arrivals.

Visiting Covadonga Lakes: Enol and Ercina

The Covadonga Lakes are the tour’s centerpiece, offering breathtaking views of glacial lakes surrounded by the Picos de Europa mountains. The guided tour of these lakes lasts about 2.5 hours, allowing enough time for sightseeing and free exploration.

Weather conditions can influence access; on days with snow or ice, access to the lakes might be restricted, and an alternative plan is provided. At the lakes, travelers admire the water reflections and the tranquil scenery. The guide offers context about the lakes’ origins and their importance to Asturias.

Discovering the Basilica of Covadonga and Sacred Cave

Next, the group visits the Basilica of Covadonga, recognized for its stone masonry made from local rocks. The structure’s jutting design makes it a striking sight. Nearby, the sacred cave of the Virgin of Covadonga features a mystical fountain and the chapel inside the cave, both significant religious symbols for Asturias.

This part of the tour includes a guided walk of approximately one hour. Visitors can also see the graves of two kings, Pelagius and Alfonso I, inside the cave, adding historical depth to the spiritual experience.

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Exploring Cangas de Onís: The Roman Bridge and Local Flavors

After Covadonga, the tour moves to Cangas de Onís, a town famous for its 13th-century Roman bridge spanning the Sella River. The guided tour covers the cobbled streets, local churches, and the bell tower of Santa María.

Locally, visitors can indulge in Asturian cuisine, sampling cider (“culines”), and enjoying traditional dishes. The free time here lasts about two hours, providing space for lunch and shopping or simply wandering the town’s charming streets.

Scenic Drive Along the Cantabrian Coast

On the return journey, the bus takes an alternative route along the Cantabrian coast, passing by beaches such as La Espasa, La Isla, and La Griega. These panoramic views are a highlight, giving travelers a glimpse of coastal landscapes they might not otherwise see.

This scenic drive is about 45 minutes, offering excellent photo opportunities of the sea, beaches, and cliffs. It’s a peaceful segment that enhances the overall experience.

Visiting Lastres: A Village of Impressive Views

The final stop is in Lastres, a beautiful coastal village renowned for its spectacular viewpoints. The guided tour includes a visit to an impressive viewpoint from above, where the scenery is truly breathtaking.

Travelers have about 30 minutes to explore Lastres independently. Many appreciate the quaint streets, sea views, and the chance to take photos of the colorful houses perched above the ocean.

Tour Guide Expertise and Customer Experience

The guides on this tour are highly praised for their knowledgeability and friendly manner. Several reviews highlight guides like Santiago, Maria, and others as helpful, informative, and attentive. They provide historical context and translate information into English when needed, although some reviews note that most commentary occurs in Spanish, with limited translation.

Participants value the good communication, timing control, and willingness to accommodate questions. The driver also receives positive comments for professionalism and safety.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Travelers should bring a passport or ID, water, and wear comfortable clothing for the moderate walking involved. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and pets are not allowed. Weather can impact access to the lakes, so flexibility is advised.

While the itinerary is comprehensive, some guests note that more time at Covadonga and Cangas de Onís would be appreciated for a more relaxed experience. The pace is generally well-organized, but longer visits could benefit those wanting to linger.

Overall Value and Suitability

With a high rating of 4.7/5 based on 294 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for those interested in Asturias’ landscapes and culture. The guides’ expertise and scenic stops make it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to see Covadonga’s natural and spiritual sites without the hassle of driving.

The full-day schedule is perfect for travelers with a full day to spare, and the combination of nature, history, and coastal scenery makes this a rich experience. Keep in mind the moderate walking and weather considerations when planning.

Lasting Impressions of the Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís, and Lastres Tour

This tour captures the essence of Asturias’ beauty—from the tranquil lakes to the historic basilica, and the colorful coastal villages. The guides’ warmth and knowledge shine through, making each stop informative and enjoyable.

The scenic coastal drive and viewpoints in Lastres leave a lasting impression, promising beautiful photos and memories. Overall, it’s a well-rounded day trip that offers a balance of nature, culture, and stunning vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at each stop.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Begoña in Gijón.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
No, the tour involves moderate walking and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring passport or ID, water, and comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor weather.

Will the commentary be in English?
Guides offer commentary in both Spanish and English, but most information is delivered in Spanish, with some translation.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there time for lunch during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes free time in Cangas de Onís, where you can enjoy local cider and cuisine.

What if access to the lakes is restricted?
On days with snow or ice, access to the lakes may be limited; an alternative plan will be provided.

How scenic are the coastal views?
The drive along the Cantabrian coast offers panoramic views of beaches and cliffs, making it a highlight for photography and sightseeing.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers who enjoy nature, history, and scenic drives will find this tour especially rewarding, with guided insights making it both informative and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby