Covadonga y Cascos Históricos Cangas de Onís y Lastres

If you’re after a day trip that combines breathtaking landscapes, medieval history, and charming coastal villages, this guided tour through Asturias might just be your perfect match. For around $48 per person, you’ll get a comprehensive experience that covers some of the region’s most iconic sights, from the legendary Covadonga Lakes to the fishing village of Lastres.

What makes this excursion stand out is its well-balanced itinerary—offering natural marvels alongside historical sites and picturesque towns. We love that it includes guided tours and free time for personal exploration, giving you a chance to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The only thing to keep in mind is that, at 12 hours long, it’s a full day, so be prepared for a lot of sightseeing and some early mornings.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Asturias’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or navigating public transport. It’s especially suited for those who love stunning views, cultural insights, and discovering authentic villages. If you’re comfortable with a Spanish-speaking guide and a full day on a bus, this experience offers excellent value for the price.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at Covadonga Lakes is a highlight, offering photo opportunities and a feel of glacial mountain beauty.
• Authentic villages like Lastres provide a taste of traditional coastal life and picturesque streets.
• The itinerary balances nature, history, and culture, making it ideal for a well-rounded day.
• Free time at Cangas de Onís allows for personalized exploration and lunch.
• The tour provides transportation in a comfortable bus, making the long day more manageable.
• It’s Spanish-guided only, so some language skills may enhance the experience.

Exploring the Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary

The journey begins with a pickup from your chosen starting point in Gijón or Oviedo. Once on board, expect a comfortable roughly 2.5-hour drive to the Picos de Europa National Park—an iconic mountain range that defines Asturias’s rugged landscape. The highlight here is the Lakes of Covadonga, formed by glaciers, at over 1,000 meters altitude. The views are spectacular, with tranquil waters surrounded by jagged peaks—perfect for those memorable photos.

We loved the way the tour combines guided commentary with free time. Your guide will help interpret the scenery and history, but you’ll also have a chance to walk around the lakes, breathe in the mountain air, and just enjoy the silence of this natural setting. Expect around 1.5 hours at this stop, which is enough for a leisurely visit, some photos, and a few moments of quiet awe.

Next, you’ll visit the Sanctuary of Covadonga, home to the famous Virgin of Covadonga (“Santina”) and the tomb of Don Pelayo, the first king of the Kingdom of Asturias. The sanctuary site is a blend of nature, legend, and faith—set amid towering mountains, with the cave holding the revered statue and the basilica’s impressive architecture. One reviewer notes that “it’s a mixture of history, legends, and nature,” and that the setting is truly special.

Most visitors find it meaningful to see the tomb of Pelayo—a symbolic site tied to the region’s resistance and identity. Entrance to the basilica isn’t included, but the guided explanation helps you understand the significance of the place beyond just the view.

The Charming Cangas de Onís

After exploring Covadonga, the tour heads to Cangas de Onís, the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias. This town is a delightful mix of history and authenticity. Its cobbled streets, stone bridges, and old buildings carry traces of centuries past. Here, you’ll have a 30-minute guided tour and some free time to wander, shop, or grab a snack.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to explore at their own pace, soaking in the old-world charm. The tour offers a two-hour window for lunch and personal exploration, which is plenty of time to try some local dishes or browse for souvenirs. We recommend looking out for the famous Roman bridge nearby, a perfect backdrop for photos and a reminder of the town’s historic significance.

Coastal Charm in Lastres

The final leg of the journey takes you to the fishing village of Lastres, often referred to as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. The drive there includes scenic views along the coast, promising a feast for the eyes before you even arrive. Once in Lastres, you’ll take a guided walk through the old town, with its narrow, cobbled streets and colorful houses that seem to cling to the hillside.

One reviewer describes Lastres as a place where “the essence of a traditional fishing village is perfectly preserved,” with stunning vistas over the Atlantic. Expect roughly 45 minutes to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot to appreciate Asturias’s maritime heritage and perhaps pick up some local seafood treats.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $48 per person, which covers transportation, the guided visits, and access to the Covadonga Lakes. Tickets to the Sanctuary’s museum aren’t included, but they’re inexpensive at €3, and the guided commentary offers plenty of context to understand the significance of the site.

The transportation is by bus, which helps keep travel time comfortable and allows for commentary from your Spanish-speaking guide, who many reviews praise for their knowledge and friendliness. The tour operates from Gijón or Oviedo, giving flexibility depending on your accommodation.

While the full 12-hour duration might seem long, it’s well-paced, with enough breaks and diverse activities to keep things lively. Keep in mind that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and some travelers mention that it’s a full day of travel and sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Asturias—combining natural beauty, historical landmarks, and charming coastal towns—without the stress of planning all the logistics themselves. It’s particularly suitable for travelers comfortable with a Spanish-speaking guide and a full-day itinerary.

If you’re after stunning mountain views, authentic villages, and a slice of regional history, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for a first visit to Asturias or for those wanting a broad overview in one day.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Asturias’s highlights at a reasonable price. The scenic drives, combined with the chance to explore iconic sites like Covadonga Lakes and the picturesque Lastres, make it a compelling choice. The guided commentary adds insight, making the journey enriching rather than just sightseeing.

The balance of natural beauty and cultural history makes this an appealing option for travelers who want a meaningful, enjoyable day. The flexibility of free time at key stops ensures you can tailor the experience to your interests—whether that’s taking photos, shopping, or simply soaking in the views.

While it is a long day, the comfort of the bus, the variety of sights, and the authentic villages make it worthwhile. If you’re seeking an accessible, value-packed way to see Asturias’s top spots in one go, this tour should be on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour lasts 12 hours and involves some walking and sightseeing, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with a long day. Check with the provider about age restrictions.

Do I need to speak Spanish to enjoy this tour?
Yes, the guide operates in Spanish, so some basic understanding will enhance your experience. If you don’t speak Spanish, consider this when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for the stunning views, and some snacks or water for breaks. Lunch isn’t included, so plan for that during your free time in Cangas de Onís.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, primarily due to the terrain and historic sites.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Gijón or Oviedo to Covadonga takes about 2.5 hours. The entire day involves a lot of bus time, so be prepared for some sitting.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a fixed tour, customization isn’t available. However, the free time at certain stops allows for personal exploration.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have about 1.5 hours in Cangas de Onís to find lunch at your own pace.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour is a fantastic way to cover some of Asturias’s most captivating sights with ease and expert guidance. Whether you’re drawn by mountain lakes, historic towns, or coastal villages, it offers an authentic taste of this beautiful region—all in a day.