Santander: Covadonga Lakes & Cangas de Onís Day Trip

Mountain Lakes, a Sanctuary, and a Medieval Bridge in One Day from the Coast

You get picked up in Santander and driven into the Picos de Europa to walk around two alpine lakes with time to explore on your own. Then a guided visit to the Sanctuary of Covadonga built into a cave, followed by a walking tour of medieval Cangas de Onís with free time to eat and wander. Transport, lake entry, and the guide's explanations are all included; you just show up at the meeting point.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Covadonga Lakes and Cangas de Onís

• Meet guide in Santander
• Travel to Picos de Europa
• Visit Lakes Enol and Ercina
• Discover local flora and fauna
• Visit Sanctuary of Covadonga
• Learn history of La Santina
• Travel to Cangas de Onís
• Guided tour of Cangas de Onís
• See medieval bridge and victory cross
• Free time to enjoy local gastronomy

The Experience

The bus climbs away from Santander and suddenly the landscape shifts — the coast drops behind and the Picos de Europa rise up in front of you, all limestone and green. Your guide explains what you're seeing as the road winds higher, and after about an hour you're at the Covadonga Lakes, where two glacial pools sit in a valley so quiet it feels like the mountains are holding their breath. Enol and Ercina are the names, and you get free time to walk around them, spot the alpine plants, maybe see a bird you've never noticed before. The air is thinner up here, and the water is so clear it almost doesn't look real.

After the lakes, you head down to the Sanctuary of Covadonga, which is built into a cave in the rock face — and that's the part that catches you off guard. Your guide walks you through the history: King Pelayo, the battle, La Santina (the patron saint of Asturias) in her chapel, the whole weight of the place. It's not a museum; it's lived-in and worn, and the story feels closer because of that. You're not rushed through — there's time to stand and look, to ask questions if you want them answered.

The last stop is Cangas de Onís, the old capital of the Kingdom of Asturias, and it's a proper town with narrow streets and a famous medieval bridge where a victory cross hangs. Your guide takes you through the main spots, but then you're loose to wander, grab a cider (it's how Asturians drink it — sharp and local), and eat something real. The food here isn't styled for tourists; it's just what people eat. Chorizo, fabada, cheese. You're back in Santander by evening.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or meeting-point pickup in Santander, air-conditioned transport to and from the Picos de Europa, entry to the Covadonga Lakes, a guided walking tour of the Sanctuary of Covadonga, a guided tour of Cangas de Onís, and free time at each stop to explore at your own pace.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelStroller friendlyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Buendía

Is this one for you?Right for travelers based in Santander who want to see the Picos de Europa and its history without renting a car or figuring out the mountain roads themselves. Plan for a full day out — that's what lets you spend real time at the lakes and in the town instead of rushing between stops.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

How long is the day trip from Santander?

The full excursion runs the length of a day, with departure from Santander in the morning and return in the evening. Exact timing depends on the operator's schedule.

Is the walk to the Covadonga Lakes difficult?

The lakes are accessible with moderate fitness. The terrain is mountain paths, and you have free time to walk at your own pace around the two lakes.

What's included in the price?

Transport by air-conditioned bus, entry to the Covadonga Lakes, a guided tour of the Sanctuary, a guided tour of Cangas de Onís, and free time at each stop.

Can I bring a stroller or pram?

Yes, infants and small children can use a pram or stroller. Infants must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

Is there time to eat in Cangas de Onís?

Yes, you have free time in Cangas de Onís to explore the town and eat at local restaurants.

What should I bring?

Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket (mountain weather changes fast), and water. The lakes are at altitude, so it's cooler than Santander.

Is the Sanctuary of Covadonga a religious site?

Yes, it's an active sanctuary and pilgrimage site. Visitors are welcome, but it's a place of worship, so respectful behavior is expected.

Can the tour be cancelled due to weather?

The operator may make changes due to weather or unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. Check cancellation and rescheduling terms when you book.