Are you thinking about traveling to Asturias? Can’t wait to see the beautiful and famous Cangas de Onís with your own eyes? Congratulations! You’re about to set foot in one of the most charming towns in the region. And we’re not just saying that… It’s backed by the long list of visitors from all over the world who come year after year for their first, second, or fifteenth time to discover and enjoy the town. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Principality and one of the most visited in the entire country. That’s quite something!
If it causes such a stir in the tourism sector, there must be a reason, right? Its iconic monuments, quiet and welcoming streets, gastronomy… as well as its impressive surroundings, undoubtedly captivate visitors. Cangas de Onís has the privilege of being situated right at the foot of the imposing Picos de Europa, very close to unparalleled landscapes such as the Lakes of Covadonga. Furthermore, it’s fortunate to have the world-renowned Sella River flowing through its borders. There are plenty of reasons! Visiting this town and using it as a base to explore the surrounding nature is a must-do in Asturias.
And since we’re passionate about the cultural and natural heritage of Cangas, which we look upon with great pride, in this post we’re going to act as ambassadors of our little land. We want to make it easy for you and ensure you don’t miss any of the area’s wonders. That’s why we’re going to recommend what to see in Cangas de Onís and suggest at least 5 plans for your next visit to the town. Take note!
1. The Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís
When we were talking about heritage and monuments, the most recognizable image of the town kept appearing in our minds: the Roman Bridge or Puentón. It’s one of the symbols not only of the town but of Asturias as a whole. A medieval construction that has been declared a Historical Artistic Heritage site, consisting of a stone bridge that connects the two banks of the Sella River. It was built on top of an ancient Roman bridge and until the 19th century, it was the only stone crossing over this river, connecting Asturias and Cantabria.
Today, if you observe it, you’ll see two unequal minor arches and an elegant stilted arch. It’s precisely from this arch that the main emblem of the Principality of Asturias hangs: the Victory Cross. This wooden replica of the original cross, which can be found in the cathedral of Oviedo and is said to have been carried by Don Pelayo in the Battle of Covadonga, is one of the most photographed objects by visitors to the town. We recommend crossing the bridge and observing the monumental complex from the N-635 bridge! It offers the best views.
2. Old Town and Market Square
The Old Town of Cangas de Onís exudes charm in each of its streets and buildings. You’ll find it very lively, filled with local bars and restaurants where you can feast on all kinds of dishes from the acclaimed traditional Asturian cuisine. In addition to having no trouble finding worthwhile restaurants in Cangas de Onís, you’ll also have no problem finding hotels in Cangas de Onís, as the tourist offerings are very extensive.
The Old Town of the locality is situated around San Pelayo Street. Once here, let yourself go! Walk through all its streets, visit historic buildings like the Casa de Soto, or enter the small craft shops that occupy the ground floors of the houses. Once you reach the end of San Pelayo Street, you’ll come across another prize: the Church of the Assumption and the bronze statue of Don Pelayo.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Cangas de Onís on a Sunday, you’ll also come across the town’s market, which has been held for over 200 years. And where can you see it? Well, as its name suggests, in the Market Square. A beautiful space where you can also observe impressive 17th-century buildings such as the Palaciu Pintu or Casa de la Capitana. And where you can buy typical artisan products like the famous and delicious Cabrales cheese!
If after eating so much you wish or need to work off the hearty Asturian dishes, you can head to the Casa Riera Park. A perfect place for walking and, at the same time, discovering wonders such as the Casa Riera itself, a few ‘hórreos’ (traditional granaries), wooden bridges, or the Church of Santa Cruz, built on a dolmen from around 3000 BC and where King Favila, the second king of Asturias and son of Don Pelayo, and his wife, Queen Froiluba, were buried.
3. Take a trip to the Picos de Europa
As we mentioned earlier, Cangas de Onís is the perfect starting point to explore beautiful places such as the Picos de Europa, a Biosphere Reserve and National Park. The vast territory that comprises it offers breathtaking landscapes, countless routes, and all kinds of adventure activities to fully immerse yourself in its nature. Within it, you’ll find imposing scenes such as the highest peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains: the rugged Urrieles, where another symbol of Asturias rises, the Naranjo de Bulnes or Picu Urriellu, standing at 2,519 meters high.
A route to this great rock is a perfect plan for the more daring, as is visiting the picturesque village of Bulnes. Indeed, there’s much to see near Cangas de Onís. Access to this remote village can be done on foot, but for those who prefer to save energy for other adventures, you can also take the funicular that crosses the mountain from Poncebos. Additionally, routes highly appreciated by hikers from all over the world, such as the Cares Route, are found in this National Park. Without a doubt, it’s worth it!
4. Lakes and Sanctuary of Covadonga
These beautiful lakes are a must-visit in Asturias and, of course, if you want to explore the surroundings of Cangas de Onís. Located in the Picos de Europa National Park, they are one of the most visited natural sites in the country due to their extraordinary beauty. Once at the lakes, which you can access by private car – checking schedules and restrictions in the busiest months – or by the Park’s own bus, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the scenery by taking a circular route that will take you around Enol and Ercina, of glacial origin.
And at the foot of the lakes, you can’t miss a visit to the Sanctuary of Covadonga, consisting of the Holy Cave and the Basilica of Covadonga. A monument of great religious pilgrimage located in a unique setting, right in the Picos de Europa. Without a doubt, the views from its doors will take your breath away. Additionally, you can explore and enjoy visiting the Fountain of Seven Spouts, the chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary and La Santina, the tomb of Don Pelayo or Alfonso I the Catholic, the Three Crosses of Covadonga, or the Basilica itself.
5. Adventure activities in a unique setting
And we’ve saved the best plan for last… We couldn’t leave out the adventure! Cangas de Onís is a town to which adventurers from all corners of the country flock almost like a pilgrimage. The possibilities offered by its surroundings for multiple outdoor adventure sports in contact with nature are immense. The Picos de Europa are the ideal setting for practicing many disciplines, from canyoning or caving to hiking routes or even buggy rides.
However, if there’s one star activity in the area, it’s the Descenso del Sella. Nobody can say they truly know Asturias if they haven’t ventured to canoe down the Sella River! It’s a spectacular experience that combines adrenaline and sport with nature and magical landscapes. It’s a simple route that can be done at one’s preferred pace, adjusting the kilometers traveled to the abilities and preferences of the adventurers. There are countless opportunities to stop and enjoy a swim, sunbathe on the river beaches of the Sella, or have a drink at the nearby beach bars. A unique experience to share with whomever you choose!
An activity like this will undoubtedly help put the icing on the cake of your visit to Cangas de Onís. It’s a place you’ll want to return to because there will always be something new to discover or experience. At Cangas Aventura, we’ll be delighted to guide you!