The Lakes of Covadonga They are located in the Picos de Europa National Park, in the Principality of Asturias. It is one of its most important natural areas and a very touristy place that is visited by hundreds of people every year. A getaway to these beautiful lakes surrounded by green fields and mountains is a great success.
If you want to know the set of the Lakes of Covadonga and the sanctuary, we will give you some interesting information. Planning a trip to this area can be something really entertaining, so we must think about the places to see and how to get there. Take note of all the information about the lakes.
How to get to the Lakes of Covadonga
These lakes are accessible by road. However, we must know that there is seasons when traffic is limited and only public transport can pass. This normally happens in high season, during the summer and some holidays and long weekends, so you should find out beforehand about these possible limitations and about the schedules of public transport to the lakes. During the rest of the year it is possible to go up to them by private car.
The surroundings of the lakes
The Lakes of Covadonga proper are formed by two small lakes, called Enol and Ercina. There is also a smaller one, the Bricial, which appears only when there is snowmelt in the mountains. The Enol lake It is the largest lagoon and is about 1.000 meters above sea level. It has a beautiful emerald green color that makes it one of the most photographed lakes. It is one of the most beautiful settings in the area, surrounded by high snow-capped mountains and green fields. In the depths of this lake is the Virgin of Covadonga.
El Lake La Ercina it is the other lake, smaller and shallower than the previous one. In this area it is common to see cows and sheep, as these fields are used for grazing, creating a really beautiful and typical picture of Asturias.
When arriving at the area of the Lakes there is usually a predetermined visit, with a small route. You go around Lake Enol and you come to a car park from which there is a short walk through which you can see the entire lake area. If we go up some stairs near the parking lot you can get to the Mirador de la Reina, from where we will have great panoramic views. After the viewpoint are the Buferrera mines and you reach the interpretation center where you can learn a little more about the Picos de Europa area with a permanent exhibition.
Holy Cave of the Lakes of Covadonga
People who go to the lakes are not only limited to seeing the natural spaces, since a visit to the cave is a must. This place is located precisely in a small cave where the Virgin of Covadonga is, also known as the Santina. This image of the Virgin was donated by the Oviedo Cathedral Chapter in 1778 after the great fire that destroyed the previous wooden sanctuary. Here is also the tomb of the first King of Asturias Don Pelayo.
The cave is a place that even if we are not religious we should visit, because it has great beauty. We see the cave and a small sanctuary and just below a waterfall rises which flows into a small lake. It looks like a place out of a book but it is totally real. Under the cave you can also see the source of the Seven Caños or source of the Sacraments. Legend has it that if we drink from it we will get married that same year.
Basilica of Covadonga
This basilica was erected as a monumental temple that sought to restore the importance of the Covadonga area that it once had. This religious building was made in neo romanesque style. The fact that it was raised in pinkish and marble stone that was taken directly from the mountains of Covadonga stands out. It has a central nave, three ribbed apses. Inside you can see some works of art such as Luis de Madrazo's painting of the 'Proclamation of King Pelayo'.
Feast of the Virgin of Covadonga
El September 8 is the day of Asturias, which is also known as the day of the Virgin of Covadonga. During these days the influx to the lakes is really high, because in the area celebrations in honor of the Virgin are held. The carving of the Virgin of Covadonga that is submerged in Lake Enol is brought to the surface precisely on this day, to be carried in procession and worship. At the end of the procession the virgin is submerged in this lake until next year. Legend has it that this lake arose from a tear from the Virgin.