Road Trip 5: Picos de Europa II (Cangas de Onís, Covadonga)

Welcome to our most popular day trip, where we invite you to discover the wonders of the Asturian side of the Picos de Europa! Immerse yourself in the rich history of these majestic mountains, which hold the prestigious title of being Spain's first national park since 1918. As you venture into this awe-inspiring natural paradise, you'll be greeted by the largest limestone formation in Atlantic Europe, adorned with a multitude of peaks soaring above 2000 meters.

To ensure your visit is smooth and hassle-free, it's important to note that private cars are restricted from accessing the lakes during the bustling summer months and many weekends. But fear not! They have you covered with dedicated shuttle buses and taxis that will whisk you away to this captivating destination. To make the most of your journey, we recommend parking at the convenient Parking Grande in Cangas de Onís. From there, you can hop on the readily available public transport, offering you the chance to explore both Covadonga and the lakes at your leisure.For those seeking a more expedited experience, we have an exciting alternative for you. Park your car at the delightful P4 area, just before Covadonga.

So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure! Let the Picos de Europa weave their enchanting spell around you as you delve into their natural beauty and captivating heritage. Join us on this extraordinary day trip and create memories that will last a lifetime!

• El gran sueño - Cangas de Onís: 35 km / 35 mins

In Cangas de Onís we recommend parking, especially if it is Sunday, market day, at the Parking Grande, next to the Bus Station. From here, simply cross  the pedestrian bridge over the river, and you'll practically be in the center of what was once the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias (until the year 774). Notable landmarks include: the Capilla de la Santa Cruz (Chapel of the Holy Cross), where King Favila, the second king of Asturias and the son of King Pelayo, is buried; and the Puente Romano (Roman Bridge) over the Sella River. Although it's not actually  Roman but medieval, from the 14th century, it remains one of the most iconic and photographed spots in Asturias. You should also explore the Plaza del Mercado (Market Square), calle de San Pelayo (San Pelayo Street), the old town with the Iglesia de la Asunción (church of the Assumption) and the statue of King Pelayo. Don't miss Casa Riera, located in front of the Roman Bridge, which is a fine example of Indian architecture, and currently serves as the tourist office.

• Cangas de Onís - Lakes of Covadonga: 22.5 km / 38 mins

Just 9 km / 10 minutes away from Cangas de Onís, you'll find Covadonga, and 12 km from Covadonga are the Lakes of Covadonga (los Lagos). There are two lakes: first, we'll see Lake Enol, and then Lake Ercina, where the road ends. From the latter, it's worth taking the circular route round the lakes (PR-PNE2), which is 5.7 km long and takes about two hours. If you're up for more walking, you can extend it with the circular route round the Buferrera Mines, which is 3.1 km. In this incredibly beautiful area, words are simply insufficient to describe its beauty.

• Lakes of Covadonga - Covadonga: 13.5 km / 28 mins

Covadonga is a monumental complex of great importance for Asturias and Spain. It was here, in 722, that the Reconquista began when King Pelayo, leader of the Visigoths, won the battle that prevented the Moors from advancing further into these lands. It's worth visiting the basilica, which was constructed between 1886 and 1901, and the Holy Cave of the Virgin of Covadonga, a traditional pilgrimage site for many, both from Asturias and beyond. We prefer to access the cave through the upper entrance, at the same level as the basilica. After viewing the image of the Virgin of Covadonga and the tomb of King Pelayo, we descend the stairs to the fountain just below, from where you must take a photo of the sanctuary. And remember, don't drink from the 7 spouts of this fountain if you don't want to get married.

More about Covadonga and its Lakes

The three previous visits (Cangas de Onís, Covadonga, and the Lakes) can be done in any order you prefer. For us, for example, we like to save the Lakes of Covadonga for the afternoon, especially on sunny days, as there's beautiful light and fewer people.

• Covadonga - El gran sueño: 39.5 km / 50 mins

We want to inform you that, to return to El gran sueño, the map above indicates that we should turn off from the N-634, after Sevares, onto the AS-259 to the right (passing through Miyares and Vallobal), and then take the PI-9 to the left (through Cadanes). However, it's not necessary, though it can be interesting if you want to see something new. If you prefer to take the familiar route, you can continue on the N-634 until you pass Infiesto. When you reach the intersections, first you'll find Villaviciosa (AS-255), and immediately after, Pintueles (AS-258), both to the right.

Extra alternative visits:

Ribadesella: for those who do not have much time in Asturias and want to see both the mountains and the coast on the same day, after visiting Covadonga, they can visit Ribadesella (17.4 km / 17 mins from Arriondas). For information on what to do in Ribadesella see Road Trip 2: Llanes and Ribadesella

Recommended restaurants:

• La Sifonería, Cangas de Onís - restaurant, tabern and shop
• El Molín de la Pedrera, Cangas de Onís - family run restaurant
• Casa Pedro, San Juan de Parres - traditional Asturian food with a modern twist, just 5 mins outside Cangas de Onís. We recommend the beef (carne de vaca vieja).
• Vega Enol - hostel + bar in the lakes
• El Molín de Mingo, Peruyes - access from the road N-634