Covadonga Lakes, also known as Lagos de Covadonga, are hands down one of the most famous natural spots in the Picos de Europa National Park and an absolute must-see in Asturias. But there’s more to this place than just stunning views. The area is also home to the Covadonga Sanctuary and Basilica, a site of great historical significance in Spain’s national identity.
Thousands of visitors flock here every summer to admire these ridiculously photogenic glacier lakes with the snow-capped Picos de Europa in the background. To protect this gem from overtourism, the road to the lakes is closed to private vehicles during peak season. Don’t worry, though—a shuttle bus runs all day between Covadonga Lakes and nearby Cangas de Onís.
Because of this small detail, visiting Covadonga Lakes requires a bit of planning. But hey, that’s exactly why this guide exists!
Things to See at Covadonga Lakes
Covadonga Lakes are part of the Picos de Europa National Park, Spain’s first-ever national park. While the lakes are the star attraction thanks to their easy access, if you’re into hiking, I highly recommend sticking around for a few days. The deeper you go into these mountains, the better it gets.
Once you reach the Covadonga Lakes parking area, you’ll find plenty of viewpoints and easy trails perfect for a fun day out. If you’re a serious hiker with a bit more time, there are several options to venture deeper into the stunningly remote spots of the Picos de Europa National Park. For those interested, we’ve put together a post with a Lagos de Covadonga hike for every level.
For this post, though, we’ll stick to the more accessible trails and the must-see spots at Covadonga Lakes.
Lakes Enol, Ercina, and the Elusive Lake Bricial
There are two main lakes, Enol and Ercina, both of glacial origin and present year-round. Then there’s Lake Bricial, which only appears in spring when the snowmelt fills it, disappearing as summer heat arrives. Spring is one of the best time to visit if you want to see all three lakes, plus enjoy the bonus of snow-capped peaks in the background.
That said, every season has its perks. For example, we took these two last October during one of our hiking adventures. As you can see, it looks pretty awesome too—plus, we had the place all to ourselves.
Most visitors just come up to see the lakes, snap a few pics, and head back down to Cangas de Onís for a hearty menú del día when hunger strikes. But if you’re up for a bit more adventure, there’s an easy hiking loop around the lakes, perfect for families, that can end with a scenic picnic by the water.
If the idea of a swim in the lake just popped into your head as the perfect cherry on top of this idyllic plan, forget about it. Covadonga Lakes is a protected area, so swimming is strictly forbidden. If you try, expect a hefty fine.
Covadonga Lakes Viewpoints
Once you step out of the parking lot at Covadonga Lakes, pretty much any spot can be a viewpoint. The number of places to admire the lakes is as many as your creativity and willingness to climb slopes allow. Nevertheless, here are the official viewpoints that have earned themselves cute names and informative panels.
Entrelagos Viewpoint
Perched on a gentle hill between Enol and Ercina, the Mirador de Entrelagos (literally ‘Between the Lakes Viewpoint’) offers a stunning panoramic view of both lakes with the mountains as a backdrop. The effort-to-reward ratio here is unbeatable. No matter which way you approach, you’ll have to climb a few steps, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Queen’s Viewpoint (Mirador de la Reina)
This stunning balcony offers breathtaking views, and on clear days, you can even see the Cantabrian Sea in the distance. It’s located along the road that leads up to the Covadonga Lakes, about 4 km before you reach them. Buses don’t stop here, so the only way to visit is by driving up in your own car (outside peak season) or walking along the road.
Prince Viewpoint (Mirador del Príncipe de Asturias)
Located at the old Buferrer mines (which we’ll get to in a sec), this viewpoint offers a fantastic view over Vega de Comeya. Once upon a time, this was a glacial lake too, and if you look closely, you can still spot traces of its past. And true to the royal-name craze, this viewpoint honors a prince who’s now king—Felipe VI.
King’s Viewpoint (Mirador del Rey)
The King’s Viewpoint is dedicated to King Alfonso XIII—who was a huge fan of the area. This viewpoint celebrates the king’s role in declaring part of this region a national park in 1918, making it Spain’s first. Since then, the protected area has expanded into what we now know as the Picos de Europa National Park. A spot fit for royalty, indeed.
This one is actually 3 miles from the lakes, so I explained how to get there in the Lagos de Covadonga hikes post.
Princess Viewpoint (Mirador de la Princesa)
Lastly, we’re wrapping up this lineup of royal viewpoints with one of the best—yet least-known—spots: the viewpoint dedicated to Princess Leonor.
Very few people make it here, probably because it’s too short of a hike for serious hikers and too far for day-trippers. You’ll need to walk a short stretch along the CO-4 road (the same one the tourist buses use) and then tackle a steep little trail. Nothing too crazy, but definitely trickier than the super-easy Entrelagos viewpoint. That said, it’s totally worth the detour because the views over Lake Enol are absolutely stunning. Plus, chances are you’ll have it all to yourself.
Buferrera Mines
These were one of Spain’s main manganese mines, running from 1879 until 1972. Today, you can find informative panels and see remnants of the mining infrastructure, like carts and rails that were used to transport the extracted ore.
If you were wondering why anyone would bother building a road to a set of lakes in the middle of nowhere, well, this is why.
Pedro Pidal Visitor Center
This Visitor Center showcases exhibitions about the park’s natural beauty, history, and wildlife. It is free to visit, open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Pedro Pidal was a Spanish politician who played a key role in establishing the Picos de Europa National Park. He was also an alpinist and the first person to summit the majestic Picu Urriellu, a remarkable achievement for its time.
Chapel of the Good Shepherd
The Chapel of the Good Shepherd is a tiny, picturesque chapel located about 500 meters from Lake Enol, along the PR-PNPE-2 hiking route. Built in 1940, it’s not a monumental landmark, but it’s certainly photo-worthy. Every July 25th, the Council of Shepherds gathers here to divide the grazing lands and elect the Regidor. The day includes traditional sports, crafts, bagpipe music, and, of course, delicious local food.
Hiking at Covadonga Lakes
There are five main hiking trails you can take from Covadonga Lakes in a day. They range from easy paths, perfect for kids, to longer, full-day treks that will really challenge you. And if you’re up for a bigger adventure, there are also some epic hut-to-hut trails into Picos de Europa that start right here.
Explaining all the options would make this post way too long. If you’re interested, you can find all the details and useful tips on hiking trails in Lagos de Covadonga.
The most popular route, perfect for all levels, is the 6.5 km (4 miles) Covadonga Lakes loop. This well-marked trail, complete with informative panels, is hard to miss. The path is an easy cobblestone trail that takes you past the main highlights of the lakes.
Covadonga Sanctuary and Basilica
On the road between Cangas de Onís and the Covadonga Lakes, you’ll find the Covadonga Sanctuary and Basilica.
According to legend, it’s in a cave here that the Christian forces, led by Don Pelayo, scored a decisive victory in 722 against the Moors. The Covadonga battle would mark the start of the Christian conquest of Spain (according to legend). The sanctuary houses the shrine of the Virgin of Covadonga, and it’s also where Don Pelayo is buried.
Legends aside, the Basilica of Santa María la Real de Covadonga is a stunning neo-Romanesque church built from pink stone, perfectly blending with the surrounding mountains.
Admission is free, and it’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
To reach the sanctuary, you can drive (though parking fills up fast) or take a public bus from Cangas de Onís. The ride takes about 15 minutes and costs 1.55 €.
Where to Eat at Covadonga Lakes
After exploring Covadonga Lakes, you’ve got a few options for a bite: eat at one of the park’s restaurants, stop by somewhere nearby, or head to Cangas de Onís. If the weather’s nice, a picnic by the lakes is also a fantastic plan.
Restaurants at Covadonga Lakes
There are three restaurants at the lakes, but they’re only open during high season (May to October). Choosing is easy because the ranking goes like this: one’s mediocre, one’s decent, and one’s really good.
- Merendero de los Lagos
A restaurant that would be fine if the prices matched the quality. It’s not terrible, but it takes advantage of its prime location near the lakes and parking area. Honestly, it’s not worth it. - Doña Rosa
Cozy spot serving homemade Asturian food. The quality is good, but prices are a bit high for the service. - ⭐ Top choice – Refugio Vega de Enol
A mountain hut where you can also spend the night, or simply enjoy tasty food in generous portions. Prices are surprisingly reasonable for such a spectacular location. Plus, the staff is by far the friendliest of the three.
Where to Eat Near Covadonga Lakes
If you’re visiting with your own car, there are a couple of great spots along the road. Prices drop the further you get from the National Park.
- Restaurante Los Texos – Great food, great prices, and a great setting. Nothing fancy, just delicious home-cooked meals in a lovely atmosphere.
- If you’re heading towards Cantabria, you need to stop at Restaurante Moreno to try their monster-sized cachopo. If you haven’t yet experienced Asturias’ legendary portions, this is the perfect place to start.
Restaurants in Cangas de Onís
Cangas de Onís is a charming mountain town that’s worth visiting for at least half a day. It’s also the biggest town in the area, so most of the region’s restaurants, hotels, and services are concentrated here. Luckily, it’s not a tourist trap—plenty of locals live in Cangas, so you’ll find good food at reasonable prices. That said, in summer, booking ahead is a smart move because the town gets packed.
Here are a couple of solid picks:
- Not in the mood for Asturian food? Check out Verdejonegro, where you’ll find a mix of Spanish and international dishes like risotto, paella (a rare find in Asturias!), salads, and crepes.
- Want the real deal? Head to Sidrería El Polesu, the oldest restaurant in Cangas (since 1929). It still has elements of its original cider press, which gives it a ton of charm. The food is pure Asturian tradition, and it truly lives up to the setting.
How to Get to Covadonga Lakes
To protect the Picos de Europa National Park, private vehicles aren’t allowed up to Covadonga Lakes during the busiest times of the year. On those days, a shuttle bus service runs from Cangas de Onís.
There’s no entrance fee to the National Park, and you’re always welcome to walk or bike your way in.
Access to Covadonga Lakes
The only way to get to Covadonga Lakes is by the CO-4 road. When there are no restrictions, you can drive up and park in one of the public, free parking areas.
Restricted Access Dates to Covadonga Lakes in 2025
- Easter: April 5-6 and April 12-30
- May weekends and holidays: May 1-4, weekends (May 10-11, 17-18, 24-25, 31)
- Every day from June to October: June 1–October 19 (except July 25 and September 8), and October 25-26
- November 1-2 and 29-30, and December 1-8
Shuttle Bus to Covadonga Lakes
A shuttle bus from Cangas de Onís runs all day when vehicle access is not allowed. “The first service to Covadonga Lakes departs at 8:30 AM, although this may vary depending on the time of year. It’s best to check the schedules on the official website.
Return ticket prices are €9 for adults and €3.50 for kids. Sometimes tickets sell out, so it’s a good idea to book them in advance on the ALSA bus company website.
You can catch the bus at the Cangas de Onís bus station or from one of the designated parking areas (El Bosque, Muñigo, and El Repelao). Alternatively, if you choose to stay overnight at the Covadonga Sanctuary, you can also catch the bus from the ticket office there.
Exceptions
Access to Covadonga Lakes by car is always allowed for those staying overnight at one of the park’s mountain huts. However, this applies only to cars or motorcycles, not campervans or vehicles over 5 meters long. When you book your accommodation at the hut, they’ll ask for your vehicle’s license plate number. When you reach the barrier blocking the road, they’ll check your reservation and let you through.
⚠️ Don’t even think about trying to beat the restrictions by going at 5 AM. Believe me, we’ve done it*, and the road was closed off with a security guard who wouldn’t let us through without checking our license plate. Plus, they also check them in the parking lots at the lakes.
*For the record, we weren’t trying to sneak in, but we had huts reserved and wanted to see the sunrise before starting our hike, which was totally worth it!
Where to Stay to Visit Covadonga Lakes
The best option during peak season is to stay in Cangas de Onís to easily catch the bus first thing in the morning to head up to the lakes. It’s also the largest town in the area, offering more accommodation options and services. Plus, Cangas de Onís is a charming town with a great vibe, offering plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafés to explore.
Outside of peak season, you can opt for a more remote, charming spot since you won’t need the bus to reach Covadonga Lakes. If you prefer staying outside Cangas de Onís during peak season, you can take a taxi or private transfer to the lakes.
Hotels Around Covadonga Lakes
If your goal is to sleep as close as possible to the lakes and stretch out those precious hours of sleep, the Rincón de Don Pelayo Rural Hotel is an excellent value option, just 7 miles (11 Km) from Covadonga Lakes.
⭐ Top Pick – Parador de Cangas de Onís
The historical Parador de Cangas de Onís, located just 5 minutes by car or a 30-minute walk along the Sella River, offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle of Cangas.
This former 8th-century monastery, surrounded by the majestic Picos de Europa, blends history with charm. The on-site restaurant serves delicious local dishes, including regional cheeses and stews. With free parking available, it’s an ideal choice for those traveling by car, offering easy access to nearby Roman bridges, the Santa Cruz chapel, and prehistoric caves.
The prices are a great deal considering the comfort, service, and the incredible setting of the building. If you’re planning to visit in the summer or during holidays, make sure to book ahead, as it can fill up quickly!
Hotels in Cangas de Onís
Cangas de Onís is a mountain town with plenty of affordable and mid-range options, but no luxury spots. If you’re driving, keep in mind that parking can be a real nightmare in summer, on weekends, and during holidays. I highly recommend staying just outside the center or choosing a place with private parking.
Hotel Mirador La Cepada is the only one in town that offers full hotel services. Guests can enjoy free parking, 24-hour reception, room service, a bar, in-room kettles, and more. Good service at a very reasonable price.
Prau del Mito has modern, well-equipped apartments with fantastic views.
If you’re looking for a budget option right in the center, Hotel Sella is your best bet.
Hotels in Arenas de Cabrales
Arenas de Cabrales is an hour’s drive from Covadonga Lakes and is a great base if you’re planning to visit the charming village of Bulnes, hike the Cares Gorge trail, or kayak down the Sella River. There are also many hiking routes in the Picos de Europa National Park from Arenas, including the demanding but spectacular route to the iconic Urriellu peak.
Hotel Picos de Europa is a solid mid-range option with a pool overlooking the mountains. It feels like heaven in summer after a long day of trekking.
Things to Do Near Covadonga Lakes
Now that you’re deep into Asturias, take a few days to explore the stunning Picos de Europa and the surrounding area. Here are some top activities near Covadonga Lakes:
The Cares Gorge
The Cares Gorge hiking trail (or “Garganta del Cares”) is one of the top things to do in Northern Spain. This dramatic, 12-km trail (one way) is carved into towering mountainsides, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and the crystal-clear Cares River below. It’s a tough one for anyone with vertigo. The trail is mostly flat and easy, but don’t let your guard down, especially with kids—one wrong step and it’s a one-way ticket off the cliff.
Bulnes
Bulnes is a small, remote village only accessible by foot or the funicular railway. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Picos de Europa, it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Northern Spain. Wander through its cobbled streets, enjoy traditional Asturian food, and admire the surrounding rugged landscapes.
Urriellu Peak
Urriellu Peak (also known as Naranjo de Bulnes) is an iconic symbol of Picos de Europa, attracting climbers from around the world. If you’re not into climbing, the mountain route to the base of Urriellu Peak is one of the best things to do in Norther Spain. With stunning landscapes along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views as you get closer to the peak. Plus, there’s a mountain hut where you can sleep right at the foot of the mountain, making it the perfect base for adventurers.
Ribadesella
Ribadesella is a beautiful coastal town located just a short drive from Picos de Europa. Known for its stunning beaches, the town is also famous for its popular kayak river descent, a fun activity suitable for all ages.
Covadonga Lakes Map
The following Covadonga Lakes map shows all the places mentioned in this guide, including where to eat and stay. Click on the top left corner to view the panel with info on each place. Or click on the top right corner to open the map in full screen.
Covadonga Lakes FAQs
A hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, hiking boots, warm clothing, and a rain jacket. It can get hot in summer, but remember you’re in high mountain terrain, so always check the weather first. Restaurants are only open during peak season, so it’s best to bring some snacks with you. If you’re planning to hike, trekking poles are always a great idea in Picos de Europa.
Yes, there are no access restrictions if you’re hiking for more than one day and staying at a hut, but you’ll need to have a reservation because they’ll check your license plate at the barrier to make sure you have a booking. Just remember, reservations for meals only don’t count.
Nope, access to Covadonga Lakes and any part of Picos de Europa is free of charge.
Spring is one of the best times because the peaks are still snow-covered, and the melting snow makes the lakes bigger, creates waterfalls, and brings the stunning Bricial Lake to life.
No, outside peak season you can only access Covadonga Lakes by private vehicle, on foot, by bike, in a taxi, or with a guided tour.
Yes, but they must be kept on a leash. Picos de Europa is a national park with native wildlife like wolves, deer, and bears. Also, in some areas, traditional farming is still practiced, and the shepherd dogs (the only ones allowed off-leash) won’t take kindly to your dog getting close to their flocks.
Yes, but they must travel in the pet section of the luggage compartment.
I hope this guide to visiting Covadonga Lakes has been helpful for making the most of your day in this beautiful spot. Feel free to leave a comment if you still have any questions!