Excursion to Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís from Gijón

Excursion to Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís from Gijón: An In-Depth Look

This full-day tour from Gijón offers a wonderful way to explore some of Asturias’ most iconic sights. Priced at $48.57 per person, the tour lasts about 11 hours, making it a comprehensive experience that balances natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and local flavor. The tour departs early, with a pickup at Av. de la Costa, 33, and includes a mobile ticket for convenience.

While weather can sometimes affect visibility, this trip excels at showcasing Covadonga’s remarkable landscapes, the impressive Basilica of Covadonga, and the charm of Cangas de Onís. With an average booking window of 22 days in advance, it appeals to those looking for a well-organized, enriching day trip that balances sightseeing with leisure.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $48.57, this tour provides a full day of sightseeing, approximately 11 hours long.
• Main Highlights: Visit Lakes of Covadonga, the Basilica of Covadonga, explore Cangas de Onís, and enjoy panoramic views of the Asturian coast.
• Inclusive Ticket: The ascent to Lagos de Covadonga is included, saving time and hassle.
• Cultural & Natural Sights: Experience Spain’s first national park, see the Cueva de la Virgen de Covadonga, and learn from guides about local history.
• Flexibility & Comfort: The tour offers leisure time in Cangas de Onís and panoramic bus views of beaches like La Espasa, La Isla, and La Griega.
• Mixed Reviews: Positive feedback highlights stunning views and professional guides, though weather can sometimes limit the experience.

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Route Planning

The tour begins with an early morning pick-up at the designated meeting point. This timing allows the group to reach the Lakes of Covadonga as early as possible, maximizing time for sightseeing and photos. The guides are known for their professionalism and efficiency, which helps keep the day flowing smoothly despite the long hours.

Travelers appreciate that the bus is modern and comfortable, making the long journey more pleasant. The small group size — with a maximum of 51 travelers — contributes to a more personalized experience, especially important when visiting popular spots.

Visiting the Lakes of Covadonga: Natural Beauty and History

The Lagos de Covadonga form the highlight of the trip. This area is part of Picos de Europa National Park, Spain’s first national park, and also a Biosphere Reserve since 1995. The tour includes a ticket for the ascent, allowing visitors to reach the lakes with ease.

The stop at the Interlagos Viewpoint offers some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Ercina and Lake Enol. The guide provides an engaging explanation of the park’s geology and significance, enriching the natural spectacle. While bad weather can sometimes impact visibility, the landscape remains striking and photo-worthy.

Exploring the Basilica of Covadonga and the Sacred Cueva

Next, the group visits the Basilica of Santa María la Mayor de Covadonga, an imposing religious structure with a story to tell. The crypt, the Obelisk — where Pelayo is said to have been proclaimed king — and the 5,000-kilo La Campanona bell all add historical intrigue to the visit.

A short walk from the basilica, the Cueva de la Virgen de Covadonga, or La Cuevona, hosts a carving of La Santina, a revered figure for locals. These sites combine spiritual reverence with architectural grandeur, making them compelling stops that reveal the area’s religious and cultural roots.

Leisure Time in Cangas de Onís and Local Flavors

After the religious and natural visits, the tour includes about 2 hours in Cangas de Onís. This charming town is famous for its Viktoria Cross bridge, which hangs from its arch and symbolizes the town. The 33-meter church tower with 6 bells offers a distinctive silhouette.

Guests can wander the streets, enjoy the local shops, or sample Asturian dishes such as a cachopín with patatines. The tour guide suggests not leaving without trying a culín, a traditional local cider served in a small glass. This stop provides an excellent chance to experience authentic Asturian gastronomy and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Coastal Views and Lastres from the San Roque Viewpoint

The journey continues with panoramic views of the beaches of La Espasa, La Isla, and La Griega from the bus. These sights highlight Asturias’ rugged coastline and natural beauty.

A 30-minute stop at the San Roque viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of Lastres, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful towns. From this vantage point, visitors see the picturesque harbor, colorful houses, and cliffside streets that define Lastres’ charm. The visual impact here is truly memorable.

Flexibility and Optional Leisure Activities

While the main itinerary is structured, the tour allows some leisure time in Cangas de Onís for shopping, eating, or simply strolling. The lunch break can be an opportunity to indulge in local Asturian cuisine or relax at your own pace.

However, the tour does not include lunch or drinks, so travelers should plan accordingly if they wish to dine at the stops. The focus remains on sightseeing and enjoying the scenic and historic highlights.

Practicalities: Accessibility, Booking, and Cancellation

This tour is suitable for most travelers, though it is not recommended for people with reduced mobility due to the walking involved at some stops. It runs most days, with advance booking recommended — typically about 22 days ahead.

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather concerns or change of plans. The meeting point is fixed, and the activity ends back at the start location, simplifying logistics.

Review Highlights and Common Feedback

Based on eight reviews, the tour scores an average of 4.4 out of 5, reflecting strong appreciation for the stunning views and professional guides. One review mentions that bad weather affected the experience but that the operator quickly adapted the itinerary to maintain a satisfying day.

Guests praise the modern bus, informative storytelling, and leisurely pace, making it a good choice for those interested in natural landscapes and cultural sights. Minor drawbacks include weather-dependent views and the lack of lunch included, so packing a snack or planning ahead is advisable.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day Trip with Rich Sights

The Excursion to Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís offers a balanced mix of natural scenery, historic sites, and local culture. The tour’s value is clear at just over $48, particularly with included tickets and professional guides.

Ideal for those who enjoy mountain lakes, religious landmarks, and coastal vistas, this trip is perfect for visitors based in Gijón wanting a comprehensive exploration of Asturias’ highlights. While weather can occasionally limit the views, the overall experience remains memorable, especially for those eager to discover Spain’s first national park and its surrounding treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is suitable for most people but not recommended for those with reduced mobility due to walking involved at some stops.

What is included in the price?
The ticket for the ascent to Lakes of Covadonga is included in the $48.57 price.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there is time to enjoy local cuisine in Cangas de Onís.

What is the tour duration?
The total duration is approximately 11 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Gijón at the end of the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What are the main highlights of this trip?
Visitors enjoy the Lakes of Covadonga, the Basilica, the charming Cangas de Onís, and panoramic coastal views from Lastres.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can impact visibility, especially at the lakes, but guides will adapt the itinerary if necessary.

How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is 51 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is at Av. de la Costa, 33, Gijón, with pickup at 8:30 am.