Picos de Europa and the eastern mountains
Covadonga, the lakes, gorges and cave-aged cheeses.
The essentials
- The area of Cangas de Onís, Onís, Cabrales, Peñamellera, Amieva, Ponga, Parres and Piloña, between the Sierra del Sueve and the Picos de Europa.
- Here are Covadonga, the Lakes and the Naranjo de Bulnes, and the birthplace of Cabrales and Gamonéu cheeses.
- Cangas de Onís is the best base: about 70 km from Oviedo and a few kilometres from Covadonga.
- In high season, book accommodation and check access to the Lakes.
What to see
- Cangas de OnísFirst capital of the Kingdom of Asturias. Its medieval bridge over the Sella and the Santa Cruz chapel are its symbols.
- Covadonga and the LakesHoly Cave, basilica and lakes Enol and Ercina, at about 1,000 m above sea level.
- Arenas de Cabrales and PoncebosCabrales cheese matures in caves; the Cares Trail and the funicular to Bulnes start from Poncebos.
- ArriondasStarting point of the Sella Descent and of canoe trips.
- Sierra del SueveA natural viewpoint over sea and mountains, home to the asturcón ponies.
- Ponga and AmievaQuiet valleys and stone villages, away from the crowds.
A one-day route
- Cangas de OnísStroll over the bridge and past the Santa Cruz chapel.
- CovadongaHoly Cave and basilica in the morning.
- Covadonga LakesA short walk, if access is open.
- Arenas de CabralesDinner with a local blue cheese.
More in nature parks, walking and cycling routes and food and drink.