From Gijón: Covadonga Lakes, Cangas de Onís and Lastres

If you’re looking to explore some of the most iconic sights in Asturias without the hassle of driving yourself, this guided day trip from Gijón offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this region special. From stunning glacial lakes and historic towns to charming seaside villages, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights and get a sense of local culture—without sacrificing comfort or value.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances spectacular natural scenery with cultural insights, all delivered by knowledgeable guides. The chance to walk around the lakes of Covadonga and visit the impressive basilica makes it feel like a comprehensive experience. Plus, the stops at Cangas de Onís and Lastres offer authentic moments in lively, picturesque settings.

One possible consideration is that part of the tour is conducted in Spanish, which might mean missing out on some details unless you’re bilingual. Also, with a busy schedule packed into just over 11 hours, those with mobility issues or a love for relaxed pacing could feel it’s a bit fast. Still, this trip is best suited for those eager to pack in a lot of sights in a single day and who appreciate a guided perspective.

This tour would suit travelers who want an efficient, engaging overview of Asturias’s most famous spots—and who value well-organized transport and expert commentary.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The glacial lakes of Covadonga are truly breathtaking and worth the trip alone.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides bring history and culture to life, enriching your experience.
• Authentic towns: Cangas de Onís and Lastres are charming places where you can taste local cuisine and enjoy authentic atmospheres.
• Beautiful vistas: The drive along the coast offers breathtaking views of beaches and rugged shoreline.
• Convenient logistics: Round-trip transportation from Gijón simplifies planning.
• Value-packed: With included guided tours, transport, and free time at each stop, the price offers good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The journey begins bright and early at the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Begoña, the designated meeting point. Arriving 15 minutes early is smart, as the group departs sharply on schedule—no waiting for latecomers in this well-oiled operation. The air-conditioned bus whisks you away into the rugged beauty of Los Picos de Europa, Spain’s first national park, where every glance out the window reveals dramatic mountains, lush valleys, and glimpses of distant villages.

Our favorite part of the drive was the stop at Mirador de Entrelagos, which offers sweeping views of the lakes and the peaks. It’s the perfect introduction to the natural wonder ahead, and a good chance to snap some photos.

Next, you’ll visit the Covadonga Lakes—two glacial lakes, Lake Enol and Lake Ercina, set amid towering peaks. The tour includes a guided walk around the lakes, which, depending on snow and ice conditions, might be closed. When open, this is a highlight that offers a landscape straight out of a fairy tale. Reviewers mention the spectacular scenery and note that the lakes are very picturesque, although access can sometimes be limited by weather.

After the lakes, the bus takes you to the Basilica of Covadonga—a striking stone structure built with local mountain stone, which adds to its rugged charm. Here, you’ll get a guided tour that reveals the significance of the basilica’s architecture and its role in regional history. Close by is the sacred cave of the Virgin of Covadonga, a spiritual site with a mystical fountain and a chapel inside a mountain cave. The cave contains the graves of two kings, Pelagius and Alfonso I, making it a site of great historical and religious importance.

From Covadonga, the tour moves into the lively town of Cangas de Onís. Here, you’ll have time to wander the cobbled streets, admire the Roman bridge—a 13th-century stone arch spanning the Sella River—and soak in the local atmosphere. Many reviews praise the guide’s recommendations for local dishes and cider, which is a must-try in Asturias. You’ll find ample options for tapas and regional specialties, making this stop as much about flavor as scenery.

On the return leg, the bus skirts the Cantabrian coast, passing by beaches like La Espasa, La Isla, and La Griega. This part of the journey is a visual feast, with ocean waves crashing against cliffs and sandy beaches. Travelers consistently mention the stunning views, often describing it as a “panoramic tour of dreams.”

Finally, the day concludes in the village of Lastres, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. From its heights, you’ll enjoy an impressive viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas over the town and the sea beyond. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty and charming towns.

Transport, Timing, and Practicalities

The round-trip transportation is via air-conditioned bus, ensuring comfort during the long day. The itinerary is tightly packed, with most stops lasting between 30 minutes and two hours, giving you enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed. Expect about 11 hours in total, with a mix of guided tours and free time.

The schedule includes several stops: a 1.5-hour journey to the lakes, a 2.5-hour stay at Covadonga, followed by an hour in Covadonga itself, and a two-hour exploration of Cangas de Onís. The final stop at Lastres is about 30 minutes, allowing a quick walk and viewpoint visit. The bus departs and returns to the same meeting point, Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Begoña, which is central and easy to access.

Pricing is reasonable considering the full itinerary, guided tours, transportation, and tasting opportunities. Many reviews say it offers good value for money, especially given the quality of guides, scenery, and local insights.

The Guide and Group Experience

Guides are a highlight for many travelers, with reviews praising their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. They offer historical context, local tips, and translations, sometimes going out of their way to ensure non-Spanish speakers are included. That said, some travelers note that parts of the commentary are primarily in Spanish, which might cause some info to be lost unless you’re bilingual or attentive.

Group sizes seem manageable, and the bus ride offers a chance to relax and take in the vistas. Several travelers comment on the professionalism of the driver and guide, making the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Food, Drinks, and Local Flavor

While the tour doesn’t include meals, the stops at Cangas de Onís and Lastres present excellent opportunities to taste local cider, cheeses, and tapas. Many reviewers highlight the quality and authenticity of the food, describing it as authentic, flavorful, and well worth trying.

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What the Reviews Say

Our research confirms that this tour receives high marks across the board, with a 4.7-star rating based on nearly 300 reviews. Travelers consistently mention the spectacular scenery, the informative guides, and the great value.

Some mention that the tour is primarily conducted in Spanish, which might be a consideration if you’re not bilingual. Others comment that the pace can be quick, especially for families with small children or those wanting a more relaxed experience. Still, the overall consensus is that it’s an excellent way to see a broad swath of Asturias in a day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone eager to get a broad overview of Asturias’s most famous spots without the hassle of planning transport or guides. It’s also good for those who prefer a structured, guided experience that covers both scenic highlights and cultural sites.

However, if you crave a very slow, relaxed visit or want to explore the lakes when they’re accessible without a tight schedule, you might prefer to visit independently or with a smaller, more flexible tour.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Gijón offers a well-organized, value-packed introduction to Asturias’s natural beauty and cultural treasures. You’ll see the awe-inspiring Covadonga Lakes, walk through historic Cangas de Onís, and enjoy the seaside charm of Lastres—all in one memorable day. Guided by experts who often receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, travelers can relax and truly soak in the scenery.

While not perfect for everyone—especially if you prefer a leisurely pace or need bilingual commentary—the tour strikes a good balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable travel. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their time, see the highlights, and experience the authentic atmosphere of Asturias.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some stops are on uneven cobbled streets, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

How much walking is involved during the tour?
There is a moderate amount of walking, especially at sites like Covadonga and Cangas de Onís. The tour includes guided walks and free time, but pace can be brisk.

Can I expect the commentary to be in English?
Guides are bilingual and speak both Spanish and English, but some parts of the commentary might be primarily in Spanish. Reviewers have said guides do their best to translate for English speakers.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring your passport or ID, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor walking. Weather can change quickly in mountain areas, so a light raincoat or jacket is advisable.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of options at stops for local food and cider tasting, which many travelers find enjoyable and authentic.

What if I can’t visit the lakes due to snow or ice?
If access to the lakes is restricted because of weather, the itinerary includes alternative plans, so you’ll still enjoy the scenic drive and other stops.

This guided trip from Gijón promises a full, memorable day of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and seaside charm—well worth considering if you want to see the heart of Asturias with expert guidance and minimal hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: