Trail to the Lakes of Covadonga

This route is classified as an "HC" (Hors Catégorie) climb, meaning it's extremely difficult and requires very good fitness. It features an average gradient of 6.7% to 8.2% over 12.3 to 19 kilometers, but this is deceptive. You'll encounter sections like "La Huesera" with gradients of 14-15% and peaks up to 16%, making it a truly demanding ascent.

The road surface on the primary climb to Lagos de Covadonga is generally in very good condition, making it suitable for road bikes. However, the gradients are notoriously inconsistent, with steep ramps, short descents, and flatter sections. The route transitions from shaded forest roads in its initial stages to more exposed alpine sections as you ascend.

Beyond the stunning Picos de Europa National Park scenery, key highlights include the challenging Climb to Lagos de Covadonga from Cangas de Onís itself, and the panoramic views from the Queen's Viewpoint. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with the spectacular glacial lakes, Lake Enol and Lake Ercina.

During peak seasons (typically July and August), private cars are often prohibited from accessing the climb to the lakes, which significantly enhances the cycling experience by reducing traffic. You would typically park in Cangas de Onís or Covadonga and start your ride from there. Shuttle buses operate to transport tourists to the lakes during these periods.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During peak summer months (July and August), car traffic is often restricted, making for a more pleasant cycling experience. Always check the weather forecast, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.

There are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cyclists to access the Lagos de Covadonga climb within the Picos de Europa National Park. However, it's important to respect national park regulations, such as staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, and leaving no trace.

While the Picos de Europa National Park generally allows dogs, specific rules apply. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and livestock. Given the demanding nature of this particular cycling route, it might not be suitable for all dogs, especially if you plan to cycle the entire distance with them. Consider the heat and the strenuous climb.

The full round trip, covering approximately 45.6 km with over 1340 meters of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 to 4 hours for a fit cyclist. However, this can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number of stops you make for photos, and the weather conditions.

Yes, this route shares sections with several other paths. Notably, it covers a significant portion of the official cycling climb [CIMA AS07] Lagos de Covadonga. It also intersects with parts of the Ruta Andariega (Gijón / Xixón - Covadonga/Cuadonga), Ruta del Rey Favila, and the PR-PNPE 2 Lagos de Covadonga (variante corta).

The Lagos de Covadonga is arguably Spain's most cherished cycling climb, a recurring and often decisive stage in the prestigious Vuelta a España Grand Tour. Its fame comes from its extreme difficulty, exceptional natural beauty within the Picos de Europa National Park, and its tactical challenge due to constantly changing gradients, preventing riders from settling into a steady rhythm.

You'll find cafes and restaurants in Cangas de Onís and Covadonga at the base of the climb. There are also some facilities near the lakes at the summit, though these can be busy, especially during peak season. It's always wise to carry enough water and snacks for the climb itself.