The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lake Enol

There are over 60 family-friendly hiking trails around Lake Enol, with 17 rated as easy and 24 as moderate, making it a great destination for families of all activity levels. These trails offer diverse experiences, from gentle strolls around the lakes to more adventurous paths through the Picos de Europa.

Yes, Lake Enol offers several easy trails perfect for families with small children. A great option is the Lake Ercina – Lakes of Covadonga loop from Lagos de Covadonga, which is just under 4 km and takes about an hour to complete. This route provides gentle terrain and beautiful views without being too strenuous for little legs.

Family hikes around Lake Enol offer stunning natural features. You'll encounter the beautiful glacial lakes themselves, Lake Enol and Lake Ercina, often reflecting the dramatic surrounding peaks. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like Entrelagos, which offers magnificent views of both lakes, or Mirador del Rey for sweeping panoramas of the Picos de Europa. The landscape also features charming beech forests and open meadows where you might spot free-ranging cows.

Absolutely! Circular routes are ideal for families. A popular choice is The lakes of Covadonga and the Mirador de Rey — circular. This moderate 10.7 km trail takes about 3 hours and combines views of both glacial lakes with panoramic vistas from Mirador del Rey, offering a rewarding loop experience.

Generally, dogs are permitted on many trails in the Picos de Europa National Park, but it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect local wildlife and livestock, especially free-ranging cows. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, as some areas might have restrictions during certain seasons or in protected zones.

The best time for family hiking around Lake Enol is typically during spring and summer. In spring, you might see Lake Bricial appear with snowmelt, and the meadows are lush. Summer offers warmer, more stable weather, ideal for enjoying the lakes and viewpoints. However, be prepared for varying mountain weather conditions regardless of the season.

Access to the Lakes of Covadonga area, including Lake Enol, is often restricted for private vehicles during peak seasons (typically summer, Easter, and long weekends). During these times, visitors must use a public bus service from Cangas de Onís or Covadonga. Outside of these periods, parking is available at designated areas like the Buferrera car park, which is a common starting point for many trails.

The diverse ecosystems around Lake Enol offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. While hiking, you might encounter free-ranging cows, their cowbells adding to the pastoral ambiance. The Picos de Europa National Park is also home to various bird species and other mountain animals, so keep an eye out, especially in quieter areas.

Yes, the area around Lake Enol has historical and cultural elements. You can explore the remnants of the Buferrera mines, where informational panels detail past mining activities. Near Lake Enol, there is also the Good Shepherd hermitage. If you visit on July 25th, you might even witness regional dancing during the Fiesta del Pastor at Lake Enol.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Lake Enol, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 800 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning glacial landscapes, the breathtaking panoramic views from various viewpoints, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring accessible for families. The serene beauty of the lakes themselves is frequently highlighted as a favorite aspect.

Yes, a fantastic option to experience both main glacial lakes is the Lake Enol – Lakes of Covadonga loop from Lagos de Covadonga. This moderate 8.7 km route takes about 2.5 hours and offers beautiful views of both Lake Enol and Lake Ercina, providing a comprehensive tour of the iconic lake district.