From Santander or Llanes: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onis

Cantabria, Asturias



Discover the Lakes of Covadonga and its sanctuary in the Principality of Asturias on a guided tour from Santander. Visit the historic town of Cangas de Onís.

Covadonga and Asturias Full-Day Excursion from Santander

This full-day tour from Santander suits travelers interested in nature, history, and regional culture in Asturias and the Picos de Europa National Park.

Highlights

  • Admire panoramic views of glacial lakes in the Covadonga Mountains
  • Visit the tomb of Asturias' founder, King Pelayo, at Santa Cueva de Covadonga
  • Explore the Covadonga Basilica, built with stone from the surrounding mountains
  • Learn the story of La Santina, the Virgin of Covadonga, during the Spanish Civil War
  • Discover Asturian specialties at restaurants and cideries in Cangas de Onís

Description

Start your excursion in Santander and travel through the diverse landscapes and cultural sites of Cantabria and Asturias until reaching Llanes.

Enjoy scenic views from the coach while learning about the region’s history en route to the Picos de Europa National Park. At Covadonga, climb to Mirador de Entrelagos for views over the glacial lakes Ercina and Enol.

Visit the Royal Site of Covadonga, known for La Santina, the Virgin of Covadonga. Explore the basilica constructed with mountain stone and the holy cave where King Pelayo is buried.

Next, stop in Cangas de Onís, former capital of the Kingdom of Asturias, and see its historic bridge and the Cruz de la Victoria monument. After a guided visit and some free time for lunch, return to Santander by air-conditioned coach.

Includes

  • Professional guide
  • Entrance ticket to the Lakes of Covadonga
  • Visit to Covadonga Basilica and Santa Cueva (holy cave)
  • Visit to Cangas de Onís with free time in the lakes and town
  • Roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

Important Information

  • This tour involves a moderate amount of walking.
  • The itinerary order may change on some days due to limited lake access.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and dress for changing mountain weather. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to the Covadonga Mountains, the tomb of King Pelayo in the Santa Cueva de Covadonga, the Covadonga Basilica, and stops in Cangas de Onís for local cuisine.
The Covadonga Lakes are glacial lakes located in the Picos de Europa mountain range in Asturias.
King Pelayo was the founder of Asturias, and his tomb in the Santa Cueva de Covadonga is a key historical site linked to the region's origins.
The tour typically lasts a full day, combining travel and visits to multiple important sites within Asturias.
Yes, the tour includes stops at restaurants and cideries in Cangas de Onís where you can sample Asturian specialties.
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Covadonga Basilica, built from local mountain stone in Asturias.
La Santina's disappearance occurred during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s, and the tour includes the story as part of the historical narrative.
The tour departs from Llanes and travels through Asturias landmarks including the Covadonga Mountains and Cangas de Onís.
It is recommended to book in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak tourist seasons in Asturias.

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