From Gijón or Oviedo: Covadonga Lakes & Sanctuary and Cangas

Nestled within the stunning Picos de Europa mountain range, the Covadonga region beckons visitors to explore its natural and historic wonders. From the iconic Covadonga Sanctuary to the captivating Covadonga Lakes, this small group tour offers an immersive experience into the area’s religious heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Beyond these iconic attractions, the charming town of Cangas de Onís, known for its medieval architecture and the renowned Puente Romano, adds a cultural dimension to the excursion. With transportation and a licensed guide included, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of Spain’s most enchanting destinations. What secrets does the Covadonga region hold, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• Small group tour from Gijon or Oviedo exploring the natural and historical wonders of the Covadonga region, including Covadonga Sanctuary, Covadonga Lakes, and Cangas de Onis.
• Covadonga Sanctuary features the Basilica of Covadonga and the Grotto of Covadonga, providing a glimpse into Spain’s religious heritage and history.
• Covadonga Lakes offer a captivating alpine landscape with breathtaking glacial lakes and rugged mountain scenery within Spain’s first National Park.
• Cangas de Onis is a charming town with rich medieval history, featuring the iconic Puente Romano and traditional Asturian architecture.
• Tour includes transportation, a licensed official guide, and lasts approximately 10 hours, with no food allowed in the vehicle during the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This small group tour from Gijon or Oviedo provides an opportunity to explore the natural and historical wonders of the Covadonga region, including the Covadonga Sanctuary, Covadonga Lakes, and the charming town of Cangas de Onis.

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and costs from €70 per person. Highlights include visiting Spain’s first National Park, admiring the breathtaking alpine scenery of Covadonga Lakes, and learning about the region’s medieval history and the famous Covadonga Battle.

The tour includes a licensed official guide and transportation, but isn’t suitable for children under 11 years old. Participants should bring a passport or ID card, as no food is allowed in the vehicle.

Visiting Covadonga Sanctuary

The first stop on the tour is the Covadonga Sanctuary, where visitors can explore this historic religious site for approximately 1.5 hours.

The sanctuary features the Basilica of Covadonga, a neo-Romanesque cathedral built in the late 19th century. Inside, visitors can admire the impressive architecture and learn about the site’s significance in Spanish history.

The Sanctuary is also home to the Grotto of Covadonga, a sacred cave where the statue of the Virgin of Covadonga is housed. Visitors can walk through the grotto and pay respects to this important religious icon.

The Covadonga Sanctuary provides a glimpse into Spain’s religious heritage and the country’s history, making it a must-see stop on the tour.

Exploring Covadonga Lakes

After exploring the Covadonga Sanctuary, the tour continues with a visit to the stunning Covadonga Lakes. This alpine landscape, nestled within Spain’s first National Park, captivates visitors with its breathtaking glacial lakes and rugged mountain scenery.

A guided tour provides insight into the lakes’ geological history and the diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can admire the mirror-like reflections of the towering peaks, and learn about the unique ecosystem that thrives in this pristine environment. The Covadonga Lakes offer a peaceful retreat, allowing travelers to disconnect from the everyday and enjoy the serene beauty of Northern Spain’s natural wonders.

Lake	Depth (m)	Elevation (m)
Ercina	47	1,108
Enol	55	1,039
La Bricial	4	1,050
La Cuetona	10	1,060

Discovering Cangas De Onis

Leaving the serene beauty of the Covadonga Lakes behind, the tour then transports visitors to the charming town of Cangas de Onis, where they can explore the area’s rich medieval history and culture.

The quaint town is home to the iconic Puente Romano, a stunning stone bridge dating back to the 1st century AD. Visitors can wander the picturesque streets, admiring the traditional Asturian architecture and stopping to browse the local shops and restaurants.

The town also boasts the remains of a Moorish castle, providing a glimpse into the region’s complex past. With two hours of free time, travelers can enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Cangas de Onis before returning to Gijon or Oviedo.

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Duration and Price

This small group tour from Gijon or Oviedo to visit Covadonga Sanctuary, Covadonga Lakes, and Cangas de Onis lasts 10 hours and costs from €70 per person.

The tour includes a 1.5-hour visit to the Covadonga Sanctuary, a 1-hour guided tour of the Covadonga Lakes, and 2 hours of free time in the medieval town of Cangas de Onis.

Transportation and a licensed official guide are also provided.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 11 years old, and participants must bring a passport or ID card.

Food isn’t allowed in the vehicle during the tour.

Highlights of the Excursion

The highlights of this excursion include visiting Spain’s first National Park, admiring the alpine scenery of the Covadonga Lakes, and exploring the medieval history and the Covadonga Battle. This small group tour offers the opportunity to:

Discover the Covadonga Sanctuary, an important pilgrimage site and the birthplace of the Reconquista.

Explore the pristine Covadonga Lakes, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks and glacial landscapes.

Wander through the charming medieval town of Cangas de Onís, known for its Roman bridge and historical landmarks.

Learn about the Covadonga Battle, a pivotal moment in Spanish history that marked the beginning of the Reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula.

Inclusions in the Tour

This tour includes a licensed official guide to accompany visitors throughout the excursion. Transportation to and from the destinations is also provided.

Inclusions	Details
Guide	A licensed, official guide will lead the group and provide information about the history and significance of the sites visited.
Transportation	Comfortable vehicles will transport the group from Gijón or Oviedo to the Covadonga Sanctuary, Covadonga Lakes, and Cangas de Onís, and back again.

The tour ensures a stress-free and informative experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable region.

Important Information to Know

Certain restrictions apply for this tour, as it’s not suitable for children under 11 years old. Participants should also remember to bring their passport or ID card, as they’ll be visiting a national park.

No food is allowed in the vehicle during the tour.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there will be some hiking involved at the Covadonga Lakes.

Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the day.

Be prepared for a long but rewarding day of exploring Spain’s natural and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Departure Times for the Tour?

The departure times for the tour are not explicitly stated in the overview. The tour runs for 10 hours, but the specific departure times from Gijon or Oviedo are not provided.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

While the tour has a set itinerary, the guide can customize the experience to accommodate specific interests. Participants can request more time at a site or explore a topic in greater depth if desired.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place?

The tour provider has implemented COVID-19 safety measures, including required face masks, reduced group sizes, and strict cleaning protocols. Travelers can expect a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the natural and cultural highlights of the region.

Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. The Covadonga Lakes portion involves some walking on uneven terrain. Visitors should consider their physical abilities before booking this tour.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides Spanish?

The tour can be booked in multiple languages, including English and other popular European languages. Travelers can inquire about language options when making their booking to ensure they receive a guided tour in their preferred language.

Recap

This small group tour from Gijón or Oviedo offers an immersive experience into the Covadonga region’s religious heritage, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness.

Visitors can discover the historic Covadonga Sanctuary, the captivating Covadonga Lakes, and the charming town of Cangas de Onís, providing an opportunity to explore the natural and historical wonders of this captivating area.

You can check if your dates are available here: