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

From Oviedo: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís, and Lastres — A Detailed Review

Exploring Asturias through this guided day trip offers a fantastic way to see some of Spain’s most iconic natural and cultural sights without the hassle of navigating mountain roads yourself. Starting from Oviedo, the tour whisks you off in a spacious, air-conditioned bus to the Picos de Europa, with stops at the Covadonga Lakes, the Basilica of Covadonga, the charming town of Cangas de Onís, and the picturesque fishing village of Lastres.

What truly wins us over are the stunning panoramic views of the lakes and mountains, along with the chance to learn about Asturias’ heroic past from passionate guides. The journey is long — around 11 hours — but packed with enough beauty and history to justify every minute.

A potential consideration? On some days, access to the lakes may be limited due to snow or ice, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to see the waters. Also, the tour’s popularity means the English-speaking group may sometimes be small or combined with Spanish, which might affect your experience if language is a priority.

This trip suits travelers who crave breathtaking scenery, enjoy historic sites, and don’t mind a full day on the road. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience to get authentic insights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: See the lakes of Covadonga from a scenic viewpoint, with sweeping vistas of mountains and lakes.
• Historical Richness: Visit the neo-Romanesque Basilica and learn about Don Pelayo, the founder of Asturias.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a spacious, air-conditioned bus, making a long day more pleasant.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy free time in Cangas de Onís to sample local cider and explore medieval sights like the Roman bridge.
• Picturesque Lastres: End the day in one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, with spectacular views from above.
• Value for Money: With guided tours, transportation, and free time, many reviewers feel this is excellent value.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

We meet in Oviedo’s Uría Street, conveniently located with clear instructions. The tour departs early, at around 7:45 AM, to maximize our day. The firm emphasizes punctuality, so arriving a bit earlier ensures you won’t miss the bus. The meeting point at Buendía’s shop is easy to find, with staff and guides sporting recognizable logos.

Journey to Covadonga: Comfort and Views

The bus ride, lasting approximately 2.75 hours to the lakes, is surprisingly comfortable, thanks to spacious seats and air conditioning. During the trip, your guide shares colorful details about the region’s geography and history, peppered with humor and enthusiasm. From the seat, you’ll enjoy scenic views as we skirt the coast and begin our ascent into the mountains.

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Covadonga Lakes and Basilica

Our first highlight is the Entrelagos viewpoint, where the Enol and Ercina lakes spread out below us. The scenery here is jaw-dropping—crystal waters framed by jagged peaks. Weather permitting, you’ll get a chance to walk around and snap photos, just like many travelers who call this some of the most spectacular scenery in Spain. Some reviews mention that access to the lakes can be closed due to snow or ice, so it’s worth checking the forecast or preparing for alternative plans.

Next, we visit the Basilica of Covadonga, built between 1877 and 1901 in neo-Romanesque style. Its rounded arches and ornate stonework make it a standout. The guide recounts stories of Don Pelayo, the legendary leader who started the Reconquista, and the Virgin of Covadonga, whose cave tomb is a place of pilgrimage. Many guests find the religious and historical significance adds depth to the visit, especially if you’re interested in Spain’s medieval past.

Free Time in Cangas de Onís

After the basilica, it’s time for lunch and wandering through Cangas de Onís. The town, with its Roman bridge dating from the Middle Ages, offers plenty of local eateries. Many reviewers love sampling Asturian cider, a regional specialty, often enjoyed without worry about driving. The two hours of free time often include options for shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing with a coffee.

Some visitors express a wish for more time to explore, especially since the town’s narrow streets and charming shops beckon. Still, the included guided tour and free time give a good balance of structure and freedom. Expect to encounter delicious local cuisine, with many recommending a casual meal at a traditional tavern.

Coastal Beauty in Lastres

The final stop is Lastres, a village famous for its scenery and coastal views. Perched above the Atlantic, this fishing village offers a spectacular panorama from its viewpoints. The cobbled streets, colorful houses, and rugged coastline make it a favorite among travelers. The 45-minute visit is enough to soak in the atmosphere, snap some photos, and maybe buy a souvenir or two.

Many reviews highlight how Lastres is one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, with some describing the view from the heights as indescribable. It’s a fitting ending to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

Return Journey

After soaking in Lastres, we head back to Oviedo in about 45 minutes, arriving at our starting point around 6:30 PM. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or review your photos.

Overall Impressions and What You’ll Love

This tour offers a rich blend of nature, history, and local culture. The guides receive consistently high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience informative and engaging. Multiple reviewers mention just how well-organized and value-packed the trip is, with some calling it “one of the best day trips they’ve ever done” and “a great value for the money.”

The stunning scenery of the Covadonga Lakes, along with the historic basilica and the charming villages, makes for a memorable day. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to sample local cider and explore at their own pace during free time.

However, keep in mind that access to the lakes can be weather-dependent, so if you’re eager to see the waters, it’s worth checking for updates beforehand. Also, the English language experience can vary; some reviews note that the guide sometimes speaks more Spanish or that the English summaries are brief. If fluency in English is important, consider this when booking.

Who Should Go?

This trip is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Asturias’s landscapes and culture without the stress of driving. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with moderate walking, especially around cobbled streets and hillside viewpoints. If you are traveling with family, most reviews suggest it’s a safe, engaging, and scenic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and climbing, especially around the lakes and the basilica. It’s not ideal for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, but most able-bodied travelers will find it manageable.

How long is the total trip?
The entire day lasts about 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time. It’s a full day but filled with varied experiences.

What is the meal situation?
Lunch is not included, but you’ll have around two hours in Cangas de Onís to eat and explore. Many recommend trying local Asturian cider and regional dishes at nearby restaurants.

Is the tour available in English?
Yes, the guides speak both English and Spanish, but some reviews note that the English explanations may be brief or less detailed at times. If language is a major concern, check availability with the provider.

What happens if the lakes are closed due to weather?
In such cases, the tour offers alternative plans, which could include visiting other scenic spots or towns like Ribadesella. It’s a flexible itinerary to adapt to weather conditions.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
No, pets are not permitted on this experience.

Final Thoughts

This guided trip from Oviedo offers a superb balance of natural beauty, historic sites, and charming villages. The comfortable transportation, combined with knowledgeable guides, makes it a hassle-free way to explore Asturias’s highlights. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want a well-organized day filled with unforgettable views and stories, all at a reasonable price.

While it may not be the best choice if you’re seeking minimum group size or private experiences, most guests find it excellent value and well worth the time. The stunning lakes, historic basilica, and coastal villages ensure that your day will be both visually and culturally rewarding.

In short, if you’re eager to see some of Spain’s most iconic landscapes and have a taste of local history without the stress of self-driving, this tour is a solid choice. Be prepared for a full day, bring warm clothes just in case, and get ready to enjoy the best of Asturias.

You can check availability for your dates here: