Excursion to Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís from Oviedo

Exploring Asturias: A Full-Day Tour to Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís from Oviedo

Taking a day trip to the Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís promises a mix of stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and the chance to see some of Spain’s most admired natural and historic sites. This particular tour, operated by Buendía, offers a well-organized experience with a mix of guided insights, beautiful vistas, and free time to soak in the atmosphere. With a 4.5/5 rating based on 48 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip worthwhile—even if, like any tour, it’s not without small caveats.

What we really appreciate about this excursion is the combination of breathtaking scenery—especially the lakes and mountain views—with historical landmarks like the Basilica of Covadonga. The tour also features some fantastic viewpoints, allowing travelers to get panoramic glimpses of the rugged Asturian coast and charming towns like Lastres. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that weather can sometimes impact the experience, particularly at higher altitudes where fog or rain may obscure the lakes.

This tour is perfect for those who love nature, history, and a bit of local flavor, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Asturias’ highlights. If you’re after a relaxed, informative day out with knowledgeable guides, this trip will suit you well—especially if you’re traveling from Oviedo or nearby Gijón.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Scenery: The lakes and mountain views are genuinely impressive and worth the early start.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Visits to Covadonga Lakes, Basilica, and charming Cangas de Onís are thoughtfully timed.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, clarity, and bilingual explanations.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned buses with WiFi make the long day more pleasant.
• Authentic Local Experience: Free time in Cangas de Onís and visits to local viewpoints give a taste of Asturian culture and coast.
• Variable Weather: Weather can affect visibility, especially at the lakes, so check the forecast.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Oviedo to Covadonga’s Lakes

The adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am from Oviedo’s meeting point, right on C. Uría. The benefit of an early start is that you beat the crowds and get the most out of the day. The ride itself is smooth, with WiFi on board allowing you to catch up or simply enjoy the scenic drive through the Asturian landscape.

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be in good hands for the roughly 12-hour journey. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the driver and guide team, with travelers noting that the bus maneuvered safely along the winding mountain roads, even when navigating the tight, scenic curves leading up to the lakes.

Lagos de Covadonga: Nature’s Marvel

The main reason people sign up is to see the Lakes of Covadonga—a pair of pristine glacial lakes set amidst towering mountains. The stop here lasts about three hours, with admission included, giving plenty of time for photography, short hikes, or just marvelling at the scenery from different angles. Reviewers consistently mention how breathtaking the views are, with some quoting that the lakes look like something from a movie.

However, weather can be a wild card. One reviewer mentioned the day was “fatal” because of poor weather, and the lakes weren’t visible at their best. This underscores the importance of checking the forecast before your trip and being prepared for potentially foggy or rainy conditions.

Covadonga Basilica & the Virgin’s Cave

Next, you’ll visit the Basilica of Covadonga, an impressive structure that combines historical significance with stunning architecture. The guide will explain the importance of the site, which plays a central role in Asturian culture. A quick visit to the Cave of La Santina (the Virgin of Covadonga) adds a spiritual dimension to the day. Visitors mention the cave’s carved Virgin as a highlight, with one reviewer noting the guide’s ability to share insightful information in both English and Spanish.

This part of the tour is brief but impactful, allowing for reflection and photos. The free admission makes it accessible, and most travelers find the basilica’s grandeur worth the short visit.

Free Time in Cangas de Onís

After the spiritual stop, the tour takes you to Cangas de Onís, a picturesque town famous for its Roman bridge and lively atmosphere. You’ll have about two hours here, giving you free rein to explore, grab some local tapas, or simply relax in a café. Several reviews commend the guides for their helpful suggestions during free time, ensuring travelers make the most of the visit.

Notably, some reviews mention that guides share practical information which enhances the experience. Others appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the town at their leisure, soaking in the local vibe and tasting typical Asturian dishes.

Coastal Views and Lastres

A highlight for many is the panoramic drive along the coast, where you’ll see spectacular views of beaches like La Espasa, La Isla, and La Griega. You’ll stop at the San Roque viewpoint, which offers one of the most stunning vistas of Lastres, a charming seaside village. Reviewers describe this moment as “indescribable,” and some even say it’s worth the entire trip alone.

This part of the tour exemplifies how careful scenic planning offers memorable photo opportunities and a chance to see how Asturias’ rugged coastline contrasts sharply with inland lakes and mountains.

Practical Considerations

Transport and Comfort

Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned bus with WiFi is a clear plus, especially for a long day. The group size maxes out at 55 travelers, which is large but still manageable, and many reviews note the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and drivers.

Timing and Pace

The schedule is fairly packed, with about 3 hours at the lakes, an hour at the basilica, and 2 hours in Cangas de Onís, plus scenic stops. While this makes for a full day, it leaves little room for downtime. Some travelers found the day “dragged out,” especially during the bus loading at the start, but most appreciated the balance of sights.

Cost and Value

At $48.15 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the included admissions and the guided commentary. While food isn’t included, the free time in Cangas de Onís provides an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine without feeling rushed.

Weather and Cancellations

Given that the lakes and mountain views are weather-dependent, it’s worth noting that poor weather can diminish the experience. The company offers full refunds if the trip is canceled due to weather conditions, which provides some peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers eager to see Asturias’ iconic lakes and coast in one go. It’s also suited for travelers seeking a guided experience that covers both the natural and cultural highlights without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re comfortable with a full-day schedule and enjoy scenic viewpoints, this tour will hit the mark.

However, if you’re sensitive to weather or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to plan for a day with clearer forecasts or explore some of these sights on a more flexible schedule. Also, those wanting to explore local cuisine in-depth might prefer to dine independently in Cangas de Onís.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid blend of stunning landscapes, cultural visits, and free time to explore at your leisure. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and bilingual explanations, making it accessible for international travelers. The scenery—especially the lakes and coastal viewpoints—is absolutely worth the early start and the full day.

While weather can sometimes be a factor, many travelers still rate the experience highly, citing the views and guide expertise as highlights. The cost is reasonable given the admissions, transportation, and guided commentary included, making it a good value for anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Asturias’ best sights.

If you’re after a day of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and scenic vistas with a reliable, well-organized company, this trip from Oviedo delivers. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without fuss, and who appreciate the insights of knowledgeable guides.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am from C. Uría, Oviedo.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. The tour provides free time in Cangas de Onís where you can explore and enjoy local eateries.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are the lakes accessible for all?
The lakes are accessible, but keep in mind the high-altitude terrain may involve some walking or short hikes. Check the weather before you go.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions prevent seeing the lakes or affect safety, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is WiFi available on the bus?
Yes, WiFi is provided on board, helping you stay connected during the drive.

Can I customize or extend my visit?
The itinerary is fixed, but free time in Cangas de Onís allows some flexibility to explore on your own.

How many people are in each group?
The tour can accommodate up to 55 travelers, ensuring it’s lively yet manageable.

In essence, this guided trip to the Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís from Oviedo offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and easy transportation. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a memorable day without the stress of navigating on their own. Just remember to check the weather forecast and bring your camera along—these views are worth it.