Lakes of Covadonga and Sanctuary of Covadonga: Guided and interpreted tour

Exploring Asturias’s Hidden Gems: A Guide to the Lakes of Covadonga and Sanctuary Tour

If you’re considering a day trip to Asturias and want to see some of its most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided tour of the Lakes of Covadonga and the Sanctuary might just be a perfect fit. It promises a relaxed, well-organized experience with plenty of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and informative commentary.

What immediately appeals to us is the small group format, which tends to mean more personal attention from the guide and a better chance to soak in the landscape without feeling rushed. Plus, the expert guide brings the region’s stories and nature to life, adding depth that you won’t get from just wandering around on your own. However, if you’re someone who prefers exploring independently or has strict timing needs, this tour’s scheduled stops and group pace could be a consideration.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a manageable, engaging way to experience the highlights of the Picos de Europa, especially if they value local insights, comfortable transportation, and a bit of guided interpretation. It’s an appealing option whether you’re new to the area or returning and want a structured, enriching day out.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Transportation, guide, and insurance are covered, making it straightforward to join.
• Breathtaking scenery: Expect spectacular views from viewpoints like Mirador del Príncipe and the lakes themselves.
• Cultural highlights: Visit the Sanctuary of Covadonga and see “La Santina” in the Holy Cave.
• Expert-guided insights: The guide’s storytelling adds richness to the landscape and historical sites.
• Comfort & convenience: Starts and ends in Cangas de Onís with no waiting or lines, ideal for a hassle-free day.
• Limited group size: Only 8 participants, promoting a more intimate and engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Covadonga Experience

Getting Started: From Cangas de Onís to the Picos de Europa
The day kicks off with a pick-up right in Cangas de Onís at the small bus station parking lot. No fuss, no delays—just hopping into the private vehicle with your small group. This initial ride sets the tone; the guide starts interpreting the landscape almost immediately, pointing out interesting facts about the surrounding mountains and local history.

As you drive into the Picos de Europa National Park, you’ll appreciate the convenience of having a local guide who can share stories and facts along the way, making the journey itself part of the adventure. The route includes stops at the Mirador del Príncipe, where you’re treated to sweeping views over the Vega de Comeya and the Concejo de Onís—perfect for snapping photos and taking in the grandeur of the mountains.

Exploring the Mines of Buferrera and Limestone Towers
One of the highlights is passing through the old iron mines of Buferrera. This part transports you back in time—imagine the hard work that once took place here as you observe the mine entrances and limestone formations. It’s a reminder of the region’s industrial past and adds a layer of history to your nature walk.

Lakes Ercina and Enol: The Heart of the Tour
The lakes—Ercina and Enol—are undoubtedly the main attractions. You’ll love the way the guide describes the significance and formation of these glacial lakes, and the views are just as stunning as you’d hope. Approaching Lake Ercina, the reflection of the Cornión peaks in the water makes for a picture-perfect scene. The walk around the lakes isn’t overly strenuous, but you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, especially for the gentle climb to the Mirador de Entrelagos, which offers the best panoramic vistas of both lakes.

Around Lake Enol, the atmosphere is serene, and the scenery is postcard-worthy. Travelers often note how well the stops are paced, giving you enough time to take photos, absorb the views, and even chat with your group.

The Sanctuary of Covadonga and Its Holy Sites
The visit to Covadonga is one of the most cherished parts of the tour. You can explore the Basilica and the Holy Cave at your own pace—this part isn’t guided, but the atmosphere is filled with a sense of reverence and history. The image of “La Santina” is a sight that many find moving, and it’s a highlight that stays with visitors long after the day ends.

Reviews praise the Sanctuary as “the most visited place in Asturias,” and you may find that the quiet moment in the Holy Cave offers a welcome pause amid the busy day. Arriving here after the lakes makes for a rewarding contrast, combining natural beauty with cultural significance.

Return and Local Flavor
The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back to Cangas de Onís, arriving in time to explore local eateries and sample traditional Asturian cider—a perfect way to cap off your day. Many travelers mention how the guide’s tips for local food add value, making it easier to find authentic tapas or hearty mountain fare afterward.

Is This Tour Worth It? An Honest Look

The value for money seems solid, especially given the inclusion of transportation, guide, insurance, and the small group size. The reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, which significantly enriches the experience. The scenic stops are well-chosen to showcase the region’s best features, from mountain vistas to cultural sites.

However, keep in mind that the self-guided portions—such as visiting the Basilica and Holy Cave—may not satisfy those looking for a fully guided experience. Also, if you prefer to explore independently at your own pace or have mobility issues, some parts of the walk around the lakes could pose a challenge.

Pricing is reasonable considering the transportation and guided insights, making this a cost-effective way to cover a lot of ground in a single day, especially if you’re traveling with a small group that enhances the intimacy and comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of Covadonga without the stress of planning individual transportation or navigating the park on their own. It’s suited for people who appreciate storytelling, scenic viewpoints, and cultural stops. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it can work well for those who enjoy moderate walks and are comfortable spending a day outdoors.

If you’re after a flexible, informative, and scenic day in Asturias, this guided tour offers a good balance of nature, history, and local flavor in a manageable format.

Practical Tips Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes: The tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure.
• Bring a camera and snacks: The views are spectacular, and having a snack can keep you energized.
• Plan on arriving early for the meeting point: Parking is limited at the bus station.
• Be prepared for the weather: Mountain weather can change quickly; layers are your friend.
• Set aside free time at the sanctuary: The self-guided visit here is a highlight, so take your time.
• Check the availability: The tour runs once daily, and starting times vary, so book in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Cangas de Onís in a private vehicle, making it easy to focus on enjoying the scenery and sites.

What languages are available for the guide?
The live tour guides speak both Spanish and English, so you’ll be able to follow along comfortably regardless of your language preference.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around one day, with the itinerary carefully planned to include all major stops without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since there’s walking involved. It’s also good to bring a camera and perhaps some snacks, though there are opportunities to enjoy local cuisine after the tour.

Can I visit the Basilica and Holy Cave at my own pace?
Yes, that portion of the visit isn’t guided, allowing you to explore these sacred sites as you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops are generally accessible and scenic. However, consider your children’s comfort with outdoor walking and mountain environments.

How do I find the meeting point?
It’s at the small public parking lot at the Cangas de Onís bus station. The guide will be wearing an Asturguías T-shirt, making it easy to spot.

In sum, this guided tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich way to explore the Lakes of Covadonga and the Sanctuary. It balances organized convenience with freedom for self-exploration and promises some of the most stunning views and meaningful sites in Asturias. Whether you’re a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable day out, this experience is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: