HikesSpainLagos de Covadonga

Lagos de Covadonga

Also known as: Enol & Ercina

The Lakes of Covadonga (Enol and Ercina) - glacial lakes in the western Picos above the famous sanctuary

Difficulty 2/5 · Easy-moderateDayLoopDay walk (lakes)
Distance
~6-12 km loops
Max elevation
~1,300 m
Elevation gain
~300 m
Duration
2-4 h
iconicglacial lakescovadongashuttleloop
Explore the lush trails and stunning mountain views in the Pyrenees, Spain.

The route

The line through Picos de Europa (Western), Spain - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Year-round (shuttle-only road in peak)

Weather risks

Cloud, rain, mild; can be misty

Open year-round; the access road is shuttle-only in peak season and holidays. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

Green pasture and lake loops above the Covadonga sanctuary

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Accessible to most walkers and families; not fully wheelchair accessible - confirm

Crowds & solitude

Very popular

Variants & turnaround

Easy lake loop or the longer Vega de Ario viewpoint

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Covadonga (shuttle to the lakes), from Cangas de Onís

Shuttle & transport

Seasonal mandatory shuttle to the lakes (cars restricted)

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Cangas de Onis; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

No permit; a seasonal shuttle-only road to the lakes. Confirm.

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Mist, mud, cattle on the paths

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Spain

Walk Lagos de Covadonga with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
Plan this hike