Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís and Lastres Day Trip from Oviedo

The Lakes of Covadonga in the Picos de Europa

The Lakes of Covadonga, Lake Enol and Lake Ercina, lie at more than 1,000 metres in the western massif of the Picos de Europa, the national park created in 1918 as the first in Spain. They are glacial lakes surrounded by green pastures where cows and horses graze freely, with grey limestone peaks behind. On this Covadonga Lakes tour from Oviedo, you spend about two and a half hours in the area, including a walk up to the Entrelagos viewpoint, where both lakes appear in one sweeping view.

Your guide explains how the mountains were formed and how shepherds still use the high meadows each summer. The road up is narrow and closed to private cars at busy times, which is why a coach trip is the easiest way to get there. On some winter days snow or ice close the access; then the tour follows an alternative plan.

Basilica and Holy Cave of Covadonga

Covadonga is the spiritual heart of Asturias. Here, according to tradition, the Christian resistance won the battle in the 8th century that gave birth to the Kingdom of Asturias. The Holy Cave, cut into the rock above a waterfall pool, shelters a small chapel with the statue of the Virgin of Covadonga and the tomb of the first Asturian king. A short path leads from the cave to the Basilica, built between 1877 and 1901 in neo-Romanesque style from pink limestone.

You have about an hour here with a guided visit and some free time. Your guide shares the story behind the local saying that Asturias is Spain and the rest is conquered land. Look for the wooden statue of the Virgin holding a child and a golden rose, and take photos of the basilica framed by the green mountains.

Cangas de Onís and its Roman bridge

Cangas de Onís, the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias, is a lively market town on the Sella River at the gateway to the Picos de Europa. Its symbol is the high-arched stone bridge known as the Roman bridge, actually built in the Middle Ages, with a large cross hanging beneath its central arch. The town is full of traditional eateries serving Asturian dishes such as fabada, a rich bean stew, and local cheeses like Cabrales.

You have two hours of free time here to have lunch and explore, with recommendations from your guide. Walk along the river, visit the small chapel of Santa Cruz built over an ancient burial mound, or browse the shops selling local cheese and crafts. Lunch is not included, which leaves you free to choose where and what to eat.

Lastres, a coastal village above the sea

On the way back to Oviedo, the coach follows the Asturian coast to Lastres, officially listed among the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its houses with wooden balconies tumble down a steep hillside to a fishing harbour, and the church tower and old streets form one of the most photographed scenes on this coast. From the viewpoint above the village, the view stretches over the Cantabrian Sea and the green hills.

The stop lasts about 45 minutes, enough for a guided walk through the historic centre and photos from the viewpoint. It is a peaceful ending to a full day, contrasting the high mountains of the morning with the sea air of the coast.

Practical tips for a Picos de Europa day trip from Oviedo

This Picos de Europa day trip from Oviedo starts at 08:00 and returns in the evening, with long scenic drives between the stops. The coach is spacious and air-conditioned, and your guide comments along the way. The tour includes a moderate amount of walking, mostly on paths and sloping streets, so comfortable shoes are essential.

The best time to visit the Lakes of Covadonga is from late spring to early autumn, when the meadows are green and the access road is open. Mountain weather changes quickly, so carry a light rain jacket even in summer. Children aged 6 to 17 travel at the child rate. Bring some cash for lunch and small purchases in Cangas de Onís, where local cheese makes a good souvenir.