From Oviedo: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís, and Lastres

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and historic sites of Asturias on this 11-hour guided tour from Oviedo. Priced to offer excellent value, this day trip takes you through the Picos de Europa National Park, with stops at the Covadonga Lakes, the Basilica of Covadonga, and the charming village of Lastres. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides and offers a mix of scenic views, cultural history, and local flavor. Expect a comfortable experience in a spacious, air-conditioned bus, with plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. While the tour covers many highlights, some visitors note that the English version of the guide’s explanations can sometimes be limited or delayed, especially when the group is small.

This trip suits travelers eager to see Asturias’s natural beauty and historical landmarks in a single day. It balances sightseeing with free time for lunch and exploration, making it ideal for those wanting a well-rounded experience. Carry appropriate clothing, as some sites involve walking and the weather can be cool or variable, especially around the lakes.

Key Points

• Duration: 11 hours, with most of the trip spent traveling and visiting key sites
• Highlights: Covadonga Lakes, Basilica of Covadonga, Lastres village, panoramic views of lakes and coast
• Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned bus with scenic rides through the mountains
• Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly, providing detailed explanations and historical context
• Flexibility: Includes free time for lunch, shopping, and exploring at each stop
• Limitations: Sometimes the English commentary is brief or delayed due to language request issues

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Covadonga Lakes: Scenic Views and Cultural Significance

The journey begins with a scenic drive to the Entrelagos viewpoint, where travelers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Ercina and Enol lakes. This spot offers a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Picos de Europa. The guide shares insights about the park’s geology and why these lakes are so important to Asturias.

Access to the lakes can sometimes be restricted due to snow or ice, especially in colder months. When open, visitors can enjoy a guided tour around the lakes, but on some days, an alternative plan is offered if access is closed. The walk around the lakes involves some moderate activity, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Visiting the Basilica of Covadonga and the Holy Cave

The tour takes you inside the neo-Romanesque Basilica of Covadonga, built between 1877 and 1901. This sacred site is famous for its connection to King Pelayo and the beginning of the Reconquest of Spain. The guide recounts stories of Pelayo’s role and the origins of the phrase, “Asturias is Spain, and the rest is conquered land.”

Next, you visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga, where King Pelayo’s tomb resides. The wooden Virgin Mary statue, holding a child and a golden rose, is an object of reverence. The guide offers details about the cave’s significance and the religious traditions associated with this site, making it a meaningful stop for many visitors.

Cangas de Onís: Traditional Asturian Food and Roman Bridge

After exploring Covadonga, the trip pauses in Cangas de Onís, a lively town known for its typical Asturian cuisine. Travelers enjoy lunch in local restaurants, where they can try regional dishes and sample Asturian cider, a local speciality. The tour provides two hours of free time for dining, shopping, or sightseeing.

A notable site here is the Roman bridge, dating back to the High Middle Ages. The guide offers recommendations for exploring the town, ensuring visitors can make the most of their limited time. The town’s charming atmosphere and traditional architecture add to the experience.

Coastal Drive to Lastres: Spectacular Village and Views

The journey continues along the Asturian coast, offering stunning sea views and dramatic cliffs. The highlight is a stop in Lastres, considered one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. From a high viewpoint, visitors can admire the village’s colorful houses and the rugged coastline—an indescribable panorama.

In Lastres, travelers have about 45 minutes for sightseeing and photos. The guide points out key features of the village, and visitors can stroll around, enjoying the fresh sea air. The village’s charm and scenic vistas make this a memorable part of the tour.

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Practical Details About the Itinerary and Stops

The full itinerary includes multiple stops designed to maximize sightseeing while offering free time. The tour begins at Buendía Store in Oviedo, with a short bus ride to the lakes. The lakes of Covadonga are the main scenic highlight, with a guided tour and scenic views, weather permitting.

Next, the group heads to the Holy Cave of Covadonga for about an hour of exploration. Afterward, there’s a 45-minute drive to Cangas de Onís for lunch and free time. The Roman bridge is a notable sight during the free exploration period.

Following lunch, a 45-minute drive takes the group to Lastres for sightseeing, where the viewpoint provides an unforgettable backdrop. The return trip concludes at the Buendía Store in Oviedo.

The Comfort and Quality of Transportation

Travel is in a spacious, air-conditioned bus, ensuring comfort during the long day. The bus ride includes scenic views of the mountains and coast, making the journey part of the experience. The driver’s expertise is praised in reviews, especially when navigating narrow mountain roads.

The guides are generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, with some reviews highlighting their humor and ability to share detailed information. However, some reviews note that the English commentary can be brief or delayed, particularly when the group is small or when the guide is leading in Spanish.

The Guide: Expertise, Language, and Personal Touch

The tour is led by guides fluent in English and Spanish, with some reviews mentioning exceptional guides like Santiago and David. They provide historical stories, practical advice, and local recommendations, adding richness to the experience.

In cases where the English group is small or not enough to form a separate tour, guides sometimes conduct the explanations in Spanish with summaries in English. Reviewers appreciate guides’ efforts to translate and ensure understanding, though some note that the overall commentary may be more limited than expected.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

With a price that offers good value for money, this tour includes transportation, guided tours, and free time. Many reviews praise the balance of structured visits and free exploration, allowing flexibility.

The trip is described as well organized, with plenty of stops and comfortable transportation. While the duration is long, the scenic beauty and cultural insights make it worthwhile. Some mention that wearing suitable clothing is advisable, especially for walking around the lakes or in colder months.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals to those interested in mountain scenery, historical sites, and charming villages. It’s suitable for travelers prepared for a full day of walking and sightseeing. Because of the physical activity involved, less-abled travelers should consider the walking requirements, especially around the lakes and basilica.

People who enjoy guided stories and local traditions will find the explanations engaging, although language limitations may affect the experience for non-Spanish speakers. Overall, it’s an excellent way to see the highlights of Asturias in one day, especially for those who appreciate scenic drives and cultural landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour fee?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus is included.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning.

Are lunch and free time included?
Lunch is not included, but there is a two-hour free period in Cangas de Onís for dining and exploring.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and moderate activity, so it may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility or very young children.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Spanish; some reviews mention that explanations in English may be brief or delayed.

What happens if access to the lakes is closed?
On days when access to the lakes is restricted, an alternative plan is provided, ensuring visitors still enjoy the scenic and cultural highlights.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
Arrive by 7:45 AM at Uría Street, in Buendía’s shop, to avoid missing the start or delaying the group.

This guided day trip from Oviedo offers a well-rounded experience of Asturias’s natural and historical treasures, with stunning views, cultural insights, and comfortable transportation. It’s best suited for travelers prepared for a long, active day and those eager to see key sites without the hassle of driving.

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