From Gijón or Oviedo: Covadonga Lakes & Sanctuary and Cangas

Discover the enchanting Covadonga Lakes and the historic Covadonga Sanctuary on this captivating small group tour. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the stunning alpine landscapes and uncover the rich medieval history of the region, including the pivotal Covadonga Battle. Enjoy a leisurely visit to the charming town of Cangas de Onís, where you can savor local cuisine and admire the iconic Roman Bridge. This engaging experience offers a chance to learn about the natural beauty and cultural heritage of northern Spain.

Key Points

• This 10-hour small group tour departs from Oviedo Train Station or C. Diario El Comercio, 21A, and visits Covadonga Sanctuary, Covadonga Lakes, and Cangas de Onís.
• The tour includes guided visits to Covadonga Sanctuary and Covadonga Lakes, as well as 2 hours to explore Cangas de Onís and the Roman Bridge.
• Priced at Kč 1,748 per person, the tour offers transportation, guided visits, meals, and admission fees, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is led by a licensed official guide in English and Spanish and is not suitable for children under 11.
• Based on a single review, the tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with highlights including the clarity and engagement of the guide and the scenic and informative exploration of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This 10-hour small group tour, limited to 9 participants, offers a comprehensive exploration of the Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary, as well as the charming town of Cangas.

Priced from Kč 1,748 per person, it features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes transportation, guided visits, and meals.

Priced from Kč 1,748 per person, the tour includes transportation, guided visits, and meals with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

While not suitable for children under 11, the trip is led by a fully licensed official guide available in English and Spanish.

Travelers can expect scenic alpine views, historical context, and a visit to Spain’s first national park.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at either the Oviedo Train Station or C. Diario El Comercio, 21A, before heading to the Covadonga Sanctuary.

Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the sanctuary, including the Holy Cave and Pelayo’s grave, for approximately 1.5 hours.

Then, travelers have the option to visit the Covadonga Lakes, where a guide will provide a 1-hour tour of the scenic alpine views.

After the lake visit, the group will travel by van for 30 minutes to Cangas de Onís, where they’ll have 2 hours to explore the town, enjoy lunch, and view the Roman Bridge.

Key Attractions

First National Park established in Spain, the Picos de Europa National Park encompasses the breathtaking Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary.

Visitors can explore the scenic alpine views of the Covadonga Lakes and learn about the historical significance of the Covadonga Sanctuary, home to the Holy Cave and the grave of Pelayo, the first Christian king of Asturias.

This region played a crucial role in the Medieval Times, as the Covadonga Battle marked the beginning of the Reconquista, the Christian counter-offensive against Moorish rule in the Iberian Peninsula.

Included Services

The tour includes a fully licensed official guide who leads the experience. The included services provide a hassle-free day, allowing visitors to simply sit back and enjoy the scenic wonders.

A fully licensed official guide leads the experience, providing a hassle-free day to enjoy the scenic wonders.

The package includes:

• Transportation via comfortable van

• Food and drinks during the excursion

• Admission fees to all attractions

• Guided tours at the Covadonga Sanctuary and Lakes

• Ample time to explore the charming town of Cangas de Onís

This comprehensive offering ensures guests can enjoy the history and natural beauty of Asturias without worrying about logistics.

The tour is designed to maximize the experience for all participants.

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Customer Feedback

How do past participants view this tour experience? Based on a single review, the overall rating for this tour is an exceptional 5 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers highlight the clarity and engagement of the tour guide, making the historical context and key attractions come alive. The Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary visit, as well as the stop in Cangas de Onís, are recommended as top excursion experiences in Spain.

While not suitable for young children, this small-group tour is praised as a must-do activity for those seeking a scenic and informative exploration of this stunning region.

Visiting Covadonga Sanctuary

A highlight of this tour is the visit to the Covadonga Sanctuary, a sacred site steeped in the region’s rich medieval history.

Guests are captivated by the sanctuary’s stunning Romanesque architecture and its deep spiritual significance.

The tour includes:

• Guided exploration of the Holy Cave, where the legendary King Pelayo is said to have rallied his troops to victory against the Moors

• Viewing the tomb of Pelayo and learning about his pivotal role in the Reconquista

• Admiring the intricate interiors of the Basilica of Covadonga

• Appreciating the sanctuary’s serene atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop

• Understanding the sanctuary’s enduring importance in Asturian culture and identity.

Exploring Covadonga Lakes

If time permits, visitors can venture further into the Picos de Europa mountain range to explore the stunning Covadonga Lakes.

Nestled amidst the towering peaks, the glacial lakes offer breathtaking alpine vistas. Visitors can join a guided tour to learn about the region’s rich history and geology.

The lakes’ serene waters reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a picturesque setting.

Afterwards, travelers can stroll along the lakeside trails, taking in the fresh mountain air and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

This optional excursion provides an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Picos de Europa.

Discovering Cangas De Onís

After exploring the serene Covadonga Lakes, the tour continues to the historic town of Cangas de Onís.

This charming town offers a glimpse into Spain’s rich history, from the Roman era to the Reconquista period.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the iconic Roman Bridge, a stunning stone structure spanning the Sella River.

• Stroll through the quaint streets and browse local shops and eateries.

• Visit the remains of the Moorish castle, which played a pivotal role in the Covadonga Battle.

• Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch, savoring the local cuisine and hospitality.

• Immerse themselves in the town’s medieval ambiance and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch Included?

The tour does not specify any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Customers with any special dietary needs should notify the tour provider in advance to accommodate their requirements.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Covadonga Sanctuary?

The dress code for visiting the Covadonga Sanctuary is casual. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, as they’ll be doing some walking. There’s no need for formal attire.

Can We Stop for Photos During the Van Transportation?

Yes, participants can stop for photos during the van transportation. The tour provides ample opportunities to capture the scenic alpine views along the way to the Covadonga Sanctuary and Lakes.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour has a fixed 10-hour duration, but there’s no option to extend it. However, guests can choose to visit the Covadonga Lakes for an additional hour, though this is an optional add-on activity.

The Sum Up

This small group tour from Gijón or Oviedo offers a captivating exploration of Covadonga’s natural wonders and historic significance. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking alpine landscapes of the Covadonga Lakes, visit the hallowed Covadonga Sanctuary, and discover the charming town of Cangas de Onís, all while learning about the region’s rich medieval history from a licensed guide. It’s an engaging and comfortable way to experience the best of Covadonga.

You can check availability for your dates here: