From Santander or Llanes: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onis

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This guided day trip costs $40 per person and lasts 8 to 11 hours, with flexible starting times.
• Highlights: You visit the Lakes of Covadonga, see the Covadonga Basilica, and explore the historic Cangas de Onís.
• Expert Guides: The tour features knowledgeable guides who share stories about the region’s history and legends, including the story of the Santina.
• Scenic Routes: Enjoy panoramic views from the bus, especially at Mirador de Entrelagos between two lakes, with stops at Ercina and Enol.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover local Asturian specialties in restaurants and cideries in Cangas de Onís.
• Comfort and Convenience: Roundtrip transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, with free time at each main stop for photos and exploration.

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Exploring Asturias: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onís from Santander

This guided tour from Santander offers a full day immersed in the natural beauty and historic charm of Asturias. Starting at just $40, it provides a comprehensive experience with visits to the iconic Lakes of Covadonga, the Covadonga Basilica, and the historic town of Cangas de Onís. The tour lasts 8 to 11 hours, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore Asturias comfortably and efficiently.

You’ll find the trip particularly suited to those interested in scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and local gastronomy. The tour includes roundtrip transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a relaxed journey with plenty of opportunities for photos and sightseeing along the way. The flexible schedule allows for different starting times depending on availability, accommodating various travel plans.

While the tour features some walking at each stop, it remains accessible for most travelers, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. This trip delivers excellent value, combining natural beauty, history, and regional flavors—all in a single day.

Key Points

• Affordable Price & Length: At $40, this guided experience spans 8-11 hours, covering major sights in Asturias.
• Magnificent Lake Views: The Lakes of Covadonga and viewpoints like Mirador de Entrelagos offer stunning scenery.
• Historic Sites: Visit the tomb of King Pelayo in Santa Cueva de Covadonga and the Covadonga Basilica built from mountain stones.
• Authentic Cangas de Onís: Explore once the kingdom’s capital, home to the famous Victory Cross and charming bridge.
• Guided Narration: Guides share stories about the region’s history and legends, including the tale of the Santina during the Spanish Civil War.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy tastings of Asturian specialties in town restaurants and cideries during free time.

The Route into Asturias and the Scenic Drive

The tour departs from C. Bolera, 22, Estación Marítima, or other designated starting points. The drive into Covadonga Mountain National Park is part of the scenic appeal, with the bus passing through Cantabrian and Asturian landscapes. As the journey progresses, travelers get views of lush hillsides, rugged mountains, and the coastline at Llanes.

A highlight along the route is the Mirador de Entrelagos, a lookout point nestled between two lakes. Here, visitors enjoy spectacular views of Enol and Ercina, two of the most famous glacial lakes fed by mountain waters. The bus ride provides a relaxed way to absorb the scenery and learn about the region from the guides.

Visiting the Lakes of Covadonga

The Lakes of Covadonga, Enol and Ercina, form the centerpiece of the trip. The lakes sit within the Covadonga Mountains, with panoramic vistas available during a photo stop and guided tour. The lakes are accessible via a walk that is moderate in difficulty, offering spectacular views of the mountain landscape.

During the approximately 2 hours allocated for this stop, visitors can take photos, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the natural beauty that has made these lakes famous. Depending on weather conditions, access to the lakes may be modified, but the views generally impress regardless.

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Covadonga’s Historic Basilica and Holy Cave

Following the lakes, the tour heads to Covadonga, home to a majestic basilica built using stones from surrounding mountains. This site is also home to the Santa Cueva de Covadonga, where the tomb of King Pelayo, the founder of Asturias, is located.

Inside the Covadonga Basilica, visitors marvel at the stonework and religious significance. The Santa Cueva, known as the Holy Cave, adds a spiritual dimension to the visit, with stories of the Santina, a revered figure who disappeared during the Spanish Civil War, adding depth to the site’s history.

The guided tour here lasts about 1 hour, with free time afterward to explore or take photos. The combination of natural beauty and historical importance makes Covadonga a truly meaningful stop.

Cangas de Onís: The Historic Town and Its Iconic Bridge

Next, the tour ventures into Cangas de Onís, a town that once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias. The main highlight is the famous stone bridge, which has an incredible story and provides a picturesque backdrop.

In Cangas de Onís, visitors also see the Victory Cross, an emblem of the town and region. The town’s charming streets invite exploration, and the guide shares insights into its history and local culture. After a guided tour, there is about 2 hours of free time for lunch or shopping, with plenty of options to try Asturian specialties.

Throughout this visit, travelers appreciate the town’s authentic atmosphere and the chance to experience regional cuisine and crafts.

Lunch Break and Regional Flavors

The tour includes free time after visiting Cangas de Onís, giving travelers the opportunity to enjoy local Asturian cuisine. Many choose to visit restaurants and cideries in town, sampling regional dishes and the famous Asturian cider. This part of the trip adds a culinary dimension that complements the scenic and historical highlights.

While the itinerary is flexible, the guide recommends trying local specialties, which are a highlight for many visitors. It’s a chance to unwind and savor the flavors that define Asturias.

The Return Journey and Final Stops

After exploring Cangas de Onís, the bus begins the return trip to Santander. Along the way, the guide shares stories about the region’s history and natural features, enriching the journey back. The drive lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes, ending at the original departure points.

This organized return helps travelers relax after a full day of sightseeing, ensuring comfort and convenience. The tour concludes with drop-offs at the starting locations, making the experience easy to fit into a wider travel plan.

Practical Tips and Accessibility

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, primarily at the lakes and Covadonga site. It is suitable for most travelers with good mobility, but not accessible for wheelchair users. Travelers should bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes.

The tour operates in English and Spanish, ensuring clear narration throughout. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking process offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Overall Experience and Who Will Appreciate It

This guided trip from Santander offers a well-rounded taste of Asturias’ natural beauty, historic sites, and regional flavors. The guides’ storytelling is highlighted as a strong point, making the journey informative and engaging.

The stunning views of the lakes, the magnificent Covadonga Basilica, and the charming town of Cangas de Onís combine to create a memorable day. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in scenic landscapes, cultural history, and local cuisine.

While the group size and walking requirements may not suit everyone, those who enjoy a comfortable, educational day out will find this tour highly worthwhile. The value for money is also notable, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts 8 to 11 hours, depending on the schedule and stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers roundtrip transportation, a professional guide, tickets to Lagos de Covadonga, and visits to Covadonga Basilica and Cangas de Onís. Free time at each stop is also provided.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves a moderate amount of walking and is not suitable for wheelchair users, so families should consider the walking requirements.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Travelers should bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor exploration.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
Food and drinks are not included, but free time in Cangas de Onís allows for sampling local Asturias specialties.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
The tour is conducted in English and Spanish.

How accessible is the tour for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves moderate walking and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if the weather is foggy or rainy?
Weather conditions may affect access to certain sites, especially the lakes, but the guides adapt the itinerary if necessary to ensure a rewarding experience.

Where do the tours depart from?
Starting points include C. Bolera, 22, Estación Marítima, with options depending on the booking choice.

This guided tour from Santander offers a satisfying day exploring Asturias’ most scenic and historic sites, perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty, cultural stories, and regional gastronomy.

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