Imagine peaceful lakes, green meadows and towering mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. In the Picos de Europa, Asturias, the Lagos de Covadonga offer one of the most iconic natural landscapes in northern Spain.
Set high in the mountains, the lakes are ideal for anyone who enjoys hiking, photography and the outdoors. You can follow paths along the water, discover panoramic viewpoints or simply take in the silence and scenery.
However, visiting this area requires some planning, particularly because road access may be restricted at certain times of the year. In this guide, we explain what to see and how to organise your visit.
Discover the Lakes of Covadonga
The Lagos de Covadonga are part of Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa, on the Asturian side of the mountain range. The two best-known lakes are Lago Enol and Lago Ercina, surrounded by limestone mountains, pastures and walking trails.
Lago Enol is the larger of the two, lying in a natural hollow among the mountains. Lago Ercina sits slightly higher and offers equally impressive scenery, with views of the surrounding peaks.
There is also Bricial, often referred to as the third lake of Covadonga. It is seasonal and is particularly known for the water that can collect there during the snowmelt, so it does not always look like a permanent lake.
The combination of water, mountains and pastures makes this area special throughout the year, although the landscape and access conditions change with the seasons.
The Best Places to See Around the Lakes
1. Lago Enol: A Peaceful Mountain Escape
Lago Enol is an excellent first stop for taking in the scenery of the Picos de Europa. Surrounded by green slopes and mountains, it is a place to slow down, observe nature and take photographs.
It is worth walking around the area, sticking to the established paths and avoiding the edges wherever the ground may be unstable.
The landscape changes considerably with the seasons. In summer, the meadows can be particularly green, while autumn brings a different atmosphere as the vegetation changes colour.
2. Lago Ercina: Panoramic Mountain Views
Lago Ercina is one of the most photogenic places in the region. Its mountainous surroundings create a spectacular setting, particularly when clouds drift between the peaks or the slopes are reflected in the water.
From the parking area, you can reach viewpoints overlooking the lake. There is also a path leading to a higher vantage point, where you can appreciate the scenery from above, although the incline requires some effort.
If you want to explore both lakes, allow enough time for a walk rather than simply stopping beside the car.
3. Mirador de la Reina: A View Worth Stopping For
On the way up to the Lagos de Covadonga, Mirador de la Reina is a viewpoint worth considering. It offers panoramic views of the mountains, valleys and landscapes stretching towards the Cantabrian coast.
It is a good opportunity to appreciate the scale of the region before reaching the lakes. There is parking at the viewpoint, but bear local conditions and potential visitor numbers in mind.
If you enjoy photography, the light in the early morning or late afternoon can create particularly beautiful conditions for capturing the landscape.
4. Mirador del Rey: Forests & Mountain Scenery
If you want to explore beyond the lakes, consider Mirador del Rey, located at the end of a path crossing the Vega de Enol area.
From here, you can look out over the Pome beech forest, a woodland landscape that is particularly appealing in autumn, when the leaves change colour. It is an interesting alternative for anyone who enjoys forests and wants to discover a different perspective on the Picos de Europa.
Before heading there, check the access conditions and make sure the route fits the time you have available.
The Best Walking Routes Around the Lakes
One of the best ways to experience the Lagos de Covadonga is on foot. You do not need to tackle a long hike to enjoy the scenery, but you should choose a route that suits your fitness level and available time.
You could start with a walk beside Lago Enol and then continue towards Lago Ercina, following the paths to enjoy different views of the lakes.
If you want to walk for longer, look for marked routes in the area and check their distance, elevation gain and current conditions before setting off. The terrain can be uneven, and the weather may change quickly, even during the warmer months.
Wear comfortable footwear with good grip, bring water and carry a waterproof jacket. Avoid leaving the paths to get closer to the water or crossing sensitive pastureland.
Want to explore more? Check the available hiking routes on Wikiloc, where you can compare distances, elevation gain, difficulty levels and maps before deciding which sections to walk.
One of the circular routes around the lakes and Mirador del Rey covers approximately 12.4 km, which can take around 4–5 hours of walking, depending on your pace and the terrain, without counting longer stops. That is a substantial hike, so be realistic about the distance you can comfortably manage. Even if you stop to rest several times, your legs can become tired over such a long walk.
You do not have to complete the entire route to enjoy the area. You can drive to the permitted parking areas, visit one or two places you particularly want to see, and explore the surrounding paths on foot before returning. Use the map to choose the sections that interest you most and adapt your visit to your fitness level, available time and energy.
Visit Covadonga: A Sanctuary in the Mountains
You can combine your visit to the lakes with a stop at Real Sitio de Covadonga, a place of great historical and religious importance to Asturias.
The main sights include the Basílica de Santa María la Real de Covadonga and the Santa Cueva, where the Virgin of Covadonga, known as La Santina, is venerated.
Visiting the sanctuary adds a cultural dimension to your trip, complementing the natural scenery of the lakes with the history and traditions of the region.
If you have time, consider visiting the sanctuary first and then continuing up to the lakes, always taking road conditions and access times into account.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Lakes of Covadonga?
The landscape around the Lagos de Covadonga changes throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience.
Spring: Vegetation comes back to life and the meadows turn green. However, higher-altitude areas can still be cold, and snow may be present at certain times.
Summer: A popular time to visit, thanks to longer days and generally more favourable conditions for outdoor activities. On the other hand, you may encounter more visitors and road access restrictions.
Autumn: Changing foliage and a quieter atmosphere make this season particularly appealing for enjoying the scenery and taking photographs.
Winter: Snow can transform the lakes into a spectacular landscape, but cold, ice and adverse weather may make visiting more difficult. Always check whether access is available and whether conditions are suitable.
If you would prefer to avoid the busiest periods, consider arriving early and, where possible, visiting outside holiday periods and the busiest weekends.
How to Get to the Lakes of Covadonga
The Lagos de Covadonga are in eastern Asturias, relatively close to Cangas de Onís, one of the main bases for exploring the Picos de Europa.
By Car
Travelling by car gives you flexibility when exploring the region. However, do not assume you can drive all the way to the lakes on every day of the year.
During busy periods, access for private vehicles may be restricted, and reaching the lakes may require authorised transport. Additional measures may also be introduced at other times if the road or parking areas reach capacity.
By Bus or Taxi
When restrictions apply, visitors may be able to use authorised transport services, including buses and taxis, depending on the rules in force.
Buses may depart from different parking areas in the region, including Cangas de Onís and other points along the route. Departure locations, timetables and ticket arrangements depend on the access plan operating on your chosen dates.
If you travel by bus, also check the timetable for the last return service so you are not left without transport.
Parking & Planning Ahead
If you drive to a departure point for the shuttle service, allow enough time to park and catch your transport. Spaces can be limited on busy days.
Do not plan your visit based solely on the distance shown on a map. Mountain roads, traffic and access arrangements can significantly affect how long it takes to reach the lakes.
How Much Time Do You Need?
Allow approximately two to four hours at the lakes to see both main lakes, enjoy the viewpoints and go for a walk.
If you want to combine your visit with Real Sitio de Covadonga, allow extra time. The total duration will depend on your transport, visitor numbers, the walks you choose and how long you want to spend taking photographs and enjoying the scenery.
If you are exploring the Picos de Europa over several days, you could set aside a morning or afternoon for the lakes and use the rest of your time to discover other places in the region.
What to Pack for Your Visit
Even if you are only planning a short walk, remember that you will be in a mountain environment.
- Comfortable footwear: Choose shoes with good grip for uneven terrain.
- Layered clothing: Temperatures can be lower than in the valley.
- Waterproof jacket: The weather can change quickly.
- Water and snacks: Particularly if you plan to explore the walking paths.
- Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- A charged phone: Useful for checking maps and practical information.
If you plan to go on longer hikes, adapt your equipment to the route and check the terrain conditions in advance.
Before You Go: Check Access & Weather Conditions
Weather, road traffic and access rules for the Lagos de Covadonga can change throughout the year. Before your visit, check whether the road is open, whether private vehicles are restricted and whether transport needs to be booked.
Consult the official Lagos de Covadonga access plan and the Picos de Europa National Park website. Check the weather forecast as well, and follow any local instructions or access restrictions.
Planning ahead helps you avoid unnecessary journeys and enjoy your visit with greater peace of mind.
Are the Lakes of Covadonga Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. The Lagos de Covadonga are among the most iconic landscapes in Asturias and deserve a place on your Picos de Europa itinerary.
You can visit the two main lakes, walk along the paths in the area, stop at panoramic viewpoints and combine the experience with a visit to the Covadonga sanctuary. Even without undertaking a demanding hike, you can enjoy a spectacular natural setting.
The key is to allow enough time, check access conditions and explore without rushing.
Explore More of Asturias
- Picos de Europa, Asturias: Wild Mountains, Hidden Villages & Epic Landscapes — Discover the main mountain areas, traditional villages and experiences not to miss.
- Ruta del Cares: The Ultimate Hiking Guide to Spain’s Divine Gorge — Get ready for one of the most iconic hiking routes in the Picos de Europa.
- The Best Beaches in Asturias for Nature Lovers — Discover wild beaches, cliffs and coastal landscapes in northern Spain.
