Private Tour from Oviedo to Covadonga and Europe Peaks lakes

Taking a trip through Asturias’s scenic highlights with a private guide offers a relaxed, personalized experience that’s hard to beat. This 8-hour tour from Oviedo or Gijón combines cultural sights, breathtaking mountain lakes, and coastal charm — all in one day. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group (up to 3 people in a Berlina or a minivan for up to 6), this tour promises both convenience and intimacy.

What really makes this experience stand out is its carefully curated itinerary—including priority access to the Picos de Europa National Park and detailed attention from guides like Ricardo and Javier, who are praised for their passion, knowledge, and kindness. The flexibility to explore at your own pace and escape the crowds makes it a compelling choice.

One small consideration? The full day can be quite packed, so if you’re after a very leisurely experience or traveling with very young children, you might find some sections a bit hurried. Still, for lovers of natural beauty and cultural sites, this tour hits many high notes. It’s ideal for those keen on stunning vistas, authentic local villages, and memorable mountain scenery.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored for small groups, ensuring personalized attention.
• Priority access to Covadonga Lakes means no long lines, maximizing time for sightseeing.
• Diverse highlights: from Roman Bridge and mountain lakes to coastal villages and beaches.
• Authentic local encounters in charming villages like Lastres, with ample photo opportunities.
• Expert guides like Ricardo and Javier bring enthusiasm and knowledge, elevating the experience.
• Value for money: includes all entry tickets and door-to-door pickup for a seamless day.

Exploring Asturias: A Day in the Mountains and Coast

This tour offers a dynamic snapshot of Asturias’s natural beauty and cultural charm, perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day without the hassle of planning. We found that the tour’s structure balances sightseeing with free time — especially at Covadonga Lakes, where you’re given about 45 minutes to wander and photograph from the Peakview. The inclusion of priority access is a real winner, saving you from long lines and letting you spend more time soaking up the views.

The journey begins with a pick-up in Gijón or Oviedo around 9:00 am, depending on your preference. From there, the small group travels comfortably in a private Berlina or minivan, creating a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for conversation and questions. Our guides, Ricardo and Javier, are consistent highlights—reviewers often mention Ricardo’s enthusiasm and Javier’s kindness, which truly enrich the day.

First Stop: Cangas de Onís and the Roman Bridge

The tour kicks off in the picturesque town of Cangas de Onís, famous for its Roman bridge—an iconic symbol of the area. We loved the way this stop set the tone, combining history and scenic beauty. It’s a quick 20-minute photo stop, giving you enough time to snap some pictures and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The town’s quaint streets and local vibe make it a great intro before heading into the mountains.

This stop is particularly convenient, as it adds a touch of historical context without taking up too much time. Plus, the bridge’s setting framed against lush greenery makes for a perfect photo backdrop.

Covadonga Lakes in Picos de Europa

The core of the tour is the visit to Covadonga Lakes — Enol and Ercina — located within the Picos de Europa National Park. This is where the tour truly shines. The lakes are renowned for their striking beauty, set amid towering peaks and lush pastures. Thanks to the included priority access, we bypassed the long lines, which can be a common frustration in high season.

Once there, you’ll have about 45 minutes to walk to the Peakview, where you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of both lakes and the surrounding mountains. The terrain is manageable for most, but good walking shoes are recommended. We appreciated the flexibility here—some in our group took a leisurely stroll, while others snapped hundreds of photos from the viewpoint.

Our guide shared some insightful commentary about the geology and ecology of the area, which added depth to the experience. Reviewers like Ernesto noted Ricardo’s passion and dedication, which made the visit even more engaging.

Covadonga Sanctuary and Holy Cave

Next, the tour brings you to the Covadonga Sanctuary, a revered religious site and symbol of Asturias’ identity. The church and Holy Cave are steeped in local legend, and visiting offers a meaningful cultural touchstone amid the stunning landscape. The entire visit lasts about an hour, and guides often share stories and historical tidbits that resonate with visitors.

The Holy Cave, in particular, draws many for its serenity and spiritual significance. It’s a quiet space, perfect for reflection after the awe of the mountain lakes. Reviewers like Eugenio praised the guides’ knowledge and kindness, making the visit feel warm and personal.

Coastal Charm: Ribadesella and Lastres

After the mountain adventures, the tour shifts to the coast—Ribadesella and Lastres—which are among Asturias’ most picturesque villages. The stop at Santa Marina Beach in Ribadesella provides a chance to breathe in the sea air and maybe dip your toes in the water if the weather allows.

Then, the charming Lastres village awaits. Known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and panoramic viewpoints, it’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in local life. We loved the panoramic view from Mirador de San Roque, which offers one of the best vantage points to take in the village’s charm. Reviewers mention that this village is “one of the most beautiful in the North of Spain,” and it’s easy to see why.

Lunch and Free Time

A highlight of this tour is the 1.5-hour lunch break, giving you time to enjoy local cuisine, whether you prefer traditional Asturian dishes or something more casual. The flexibility here allows you to explore at your own pace, and many choose to sample local specialties like fabada or fresh seafood.

Final Stop: Panoramic Views from Mirador de San Roque

Before heading back to Oviedo or Gijón, the tour makes one last stop at the Mirador de San Roque. From this viewpoint, you’ll capture stunning panoramic shots of Lastres, the coastline, and the mountains beyond. Reviewers note that some of the best photographs are taken from here, making it a fitting conclusion to a scenic day.

Practical Details and Value

At $397 per group, this tour offers good value, considering all entry tickets are included and the door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics. The small group size guarantees more personalized attention, and the experienced guides make the day both educational and enjoyable.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the flexible lunch break allows you to choose places that suit your taste and budget. The tour operates with some flexibility on start times (check availability), and it’s suitable for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and picturesque villages.

The tour is not tailored for children under 10, but older kids and adults will find the mix of scenery and stories engaging. The comfortable shoes are a must due to the walking involved, especially at Covadonga Lakes.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Oviedo to Covadonga and the Europe Peaks lakes offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and charming villages. It’s perfect for those who want to see Asturias’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. The personalized touch from guides like Ricardo ensures your experience feels tailored and warm, making it a memorable day.

If you’re a lover of stunning mountain vistas, authentic local villages, and peaceful coastal spots, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s especially suited for travelers who value flexibility, expert guidance, and the opportunity to see the best of Asturias in one day.

For those seeking a hassle-free, enriching adventure that combines history, nature, and scenery—this trip hits all the right notes.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am, with drop-off around 5:30 pm, depending on availability and pace.

What is included in the price?
All entry tickets to the visited sites are included, and there’s a door-to-door pickup and drop-off service. The experience also features written English information.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is a 1.5-hour lunch break to choose where to eat.

Can I join this tour if I’m traveling with children?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years, so it’s better suited for older kids and adults who enjoy walking and sightseeing.

What type of vehicle will I be traveling in?
You’ll be in a private Berlina or a minivan, depending on your group size, providing comfort and flexibility.

Is there a chance to take good photos?
Absolutely. Stops at viewpoints like the Peakview at Covadonga Lakes and Mirador de San Roque are perfect for capturing memorable shots.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential because of the walking involved, especially around Covadonga Lakes and villages.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How personalized is this experience?
Because it’s a private tour, guides tailor the experience to your interests, making it a more intimate and flexible day out.

This detailed, balanced review underscores why this private Asturias tour is a fantastic choice for those craving authentic scenery, cultural insights, and the comfort of a small group. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking some of Spain’s most beautiful vistas, this trip offers a memorable slice of Northern Spain.