The Covadonga Lakes and Cangas de Onís offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Picos de Europa, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors seeking to enjoy the stunning landscapes and historical significance of the region. Whether you’re starting from Santander or Llanes, this guided exploration will take you on a journey through breathtaking glacial lakes, iconic religious sites, and the charming town of Cangas de Onís, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the remarkable wonders that this corner of northern Spain has to offer.
Key Points
- This 8-10 hour tour departs from either Santander or Llanes, exploring the Covadonga Mountains, Lakes of Covadonga, Covadonga town, and Cangas de Onís.
- The tour features panoramic views, guided visits to the Covadonga Basilica, and free time to learn about local culture and cuisine.
- Highlights include the scenic Covadonga Lakes, the tomb of King Pelayo, and the immersive cultural experience in the historic town of Cangas de Onís.
- Included services are a professional guide, admission tickets, roundtrip transportation, and moderate walking required to experience the key attractions.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the walking requirements, but receives excellent reviews for the quality of the guides and transportation.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The tour departs from Santander or Llanes, and it lasts between 8 to 10 hours. Priced from €76 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour covers the Covadonga Mountains, including the Lakes of Covadonga and the town of Covadonga, as well as Cangas de Onís.
Highlights include panoramic lake views, visits to the Covadonga Basilica and holy cave, and exploring Asturian specialties in Cangas de Onís.
The tour is led by a professional guide and includes transportation, but it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Itinerary Details
Starting from either Santander or Llanes, the tour takes guests on a journey through the Covadonga Mountains, with the first stop being the Lakes of Covadonga.
Visitors will have 2 hours to explore the area, including:
- A photo stop at the scenic glacially-fed lakes
- A guided tour providing historical context
- Free time to soak in the natural beauty
Next, the tour heads to Covadonga for a 1-hour visit, which includes:
- A guided tour of the Covadonga Basilica
- Free time to learn about the cultural icon, La Santina
Afterward, the group travels to Cangas de Onís for 2 hours of guided exploration and free time to discover Asturian specialties.
Highlights and Attractions
Panoramic views of the glacially fed lakes in the Covadonga Mountains captivate visitors, providing a breathtaking backdrop for photographs.
Travelers can visit the tomb of King Pelayo in the Santa Cueva de Covadonga, exploring the historic significance of this revered site.
The Covadonga Basilica, built from local stone, offers a chance to learn about the cultural icon known as La Santina.
In the town of Cangas de Onís, visitors can discover Asturian specialties at restaurants and cideries, seeing the local cuisine and traditions.
Included Services
Included in the tour are the services of a professional guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English.
Visitors will enjoy:
- Admission tickets to the stunning Lakes of Covadonga
- Access to the Covadonga Basilica and the holy cave, where the tomb of King Pelayo is located
- Free time to explore the charming towns of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís
- Roundtrip transportation via air-conditioned vehicle from the starting locations
- A moderate level of walking required to fully experience the natural and cultural highlights
The tour offers a well-rounded experience, ensuring travelers make the most of their visit to the Covadonga Mountains and the surrounding Asturian region.
Important Information
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, given the moderate level of walking involved.
Visitors should bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Comfortable clothing is recommended.
While the itinerary is typically followed, it may change due to limited access to the lakes.
The tour has received excellent reviews, with customers praising the quality of the guide and the transportation provided.
With stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and opportunities to sample Asturian specialties, this day trip from Santander or Llanes is an excellent way to explore the Covadonga Lakes and Cangas de Onís.
Starting Locations and Transportation
Where do the tours depart from? The tours depart from two starting locations: C. Bolera, 22 and Estación Marítima.
Participants will travel by air-conditioned bus or coach to the Covadonga Mountains, about a 1-hour journey.
The tour includes:
- Roundtrip transportation from the starting points
- Comfortable, climate-controlled vehicles
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- Easy access to the scenic lakes and historic sites
- Minimal walking involved, making it accessible for most travelers.
The transportation arrangements are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout the day-long excursion to the Covadonga Lakes and Cangas de Onís.
Guided Tours and Free Time
Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides lead participants on informative excursions across the stunning Covadonga Lakes and historic Covadonga.
At the Lakes of Covadonga, guides provide a guided tour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the glacially-fed lakes and their breathtaking scenery.
In Covadonga, guides offer a tour of the iconic Covadonga Basilica and the nearby Santa Cueva, where the tomb of King Pelayo is located.
After the guided tours, travelers enjoy free time to explore these sites at their own pace, as well as the charming town of Cangas de Onís, known for its Asturian cuisine and local cider houses.
Customer Reviews
Travelers consistently praise the Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onís tour for its exceptional quality.
The tour earns an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from customer reviews.
Highlights include:
- Rave reviews for the knowledgeable and engaging guide
- Seamless transportation with comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
- Breathtaking views of the glacially fed Covadonga Lakes
- Fascinating insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region
- Opportunities to sample delicious Asturian specialties
Customers consistently note the tour’s excellent value and attention to detail, making it a must-do experience for those visiting northern Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Day Trips in the Area?
Yes, you can likely combine this tour with other day trips in the area. The tour’s flexibility allows for adding other nearby attractions to create a more comprehensive Asturias experience. Check with the tour operator about customization options.
What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?
The dress code for this tour is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear clothing suitable for hiking and spending time outdoors, such as hiking boots or sturdy shoes, layers, and sun protection. There’s no formal dress requirement.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour does not explicitly mention any student or senior discounts. However, it’s best to inquire with the tour operator directly as they may offer such discounts upon request or have special programs in place.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
While the tour provider offers a standard itinerary, customers can often customize their experience. They should discuss any preferences with the provider to see if the itinerary can be adjusted to suit their needs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Customers have the option to add more time at the Lakes of Covadonga, Covadonga, or Cangas de Onís. Simply inquire when booking the tour about extending the duration.
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Recap
This full-day tour from Santander or Llanes offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of Covadonga Lakes and the historic town of Cangas de Onís. With guided explorations, panoramic views, and ample free time, it’s an unforgettable adventure that allows visitors to enjoy the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.