Covadonga Lakes

Route Description

The Covadonga Lakes are the most recognisable symbol of Picos de Europa National Park. Lake Enol and Lake Ercina are two glacial lakes formed as the glaciers retreated, now sitting in two limestone basins at 1,100 m, surrounded by alpine meadows and free-roaming livestock.

This circular route is the most accessible in the park: barely 50 m of elevation gain and 5.5 km in length make it ideal for families with young children, older visitors, or first-time hikers. Yet the scenery it offers is absolutely exceptional.

The walk begins at Lake Enol, the larger of the two, whose blue-green waters mirror the peaks of the western massif on calm days. A short slope connects Enol to Lake Ercina, slightly smaller and higher, known for the herds of cows and horses that graze freely along its shores.

From the Mirador del Príncipe, next to the Buferrera area, you look out over the Vega de Comeya, with the Sierra del Sueve and the Güeña river valley in the background.

💡 Practical Tips

• Regulated access (Easter, long weekends and from June to mid-October): On those dates the road is closed to private cars. You go up by bus from Cangas de Onís or from the designated car parks to Covadonga, with a pre-booked ticket. Outside those dates you can drive up.
• Go early: The first bus runs at 8:00. Arriving early means seeing the lakes in calm, with better light.
• Weather: At 1,100 m the temperature is several degrees cooler than the coast. Bring a warm layer even in summer.
• Mist: The lakes can be shrouded in mist for hours. It’s part of their character, though it limits the views.

📸 Key Highlights

• The reflection of the mountains in Lake Enol on windless days.
• Horses and cows grazing freely along Lake Ercina’s shore.
• The Mirador del Príncipe with views of the Vega de Comeya.