The best walks and hikes around Lake Enol

The Lake Enol area, within the Picos de Europa National Park, offers a wide variety of hiking experiences. You'll find over 80 distinct hiking routes, catering to various skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents.

Yes, Lake Enol is an excellent destination for families and those seeking easier walks. There are 23 easy routes available. A popular choice is the Lake Ercina – Lakes of Covadonga loop from Lagos de Covadonga, which is approximately 3.9 km long and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes, offering gentle terrain and beautiful lake views.

For experienced hikers, the region offers several demanding trails. The Vega de Ario Trail is a difficult 13.2 km path with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 5.5 hours. Another challenging option is the Mirador del Rey and Mirador de Ordiales from Lago Enol, a 24.2 km route through high-altitude landscapes, often completed in about 8.5 hours.

Yes, many routes around Lake Enol are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A notable circular route is The lakes of Covadonga and the Mirador de Rey, which is 10.7 km long and takes around 3 hours. It combines views of both Lake Enol and Lake Ercina with panoramic vistas from Mirador del Rey.

The Lake Enol area is rich with stunning viewpoints. The Entrelagos Viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of both Lake Enol and Lake Ercina. Other notable spots include Mirador del Rey, Mirador de Ordiales, and Reina viewpoint, which is particularly known for its views stretching to the coast, especially at sunset. Many trails, such as The lakes of Covadonga and the Mirador de Rey, incorporate these scenic overlooks.

The Picos de Europa National Park has specific regulations regarding dogs. While dogs are generally allowed on trails, they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and livestock. It's advisable to check the latest park regulations, especially concerning public transport access to the Lakes of Covadonga, as restrictions may apply.

Beyond the glacial lakes themselves, you can explore several interesting features. The Buferrera mines, remnants of the region's mining past, are visible along some routes. A replica of Our Lady of Covadonga is submerged in Lake Enol, brought to the surface annually. Nearby, the Santa Cueva (Holy Cave) and the Basilica of Covadonga offer cultural and religious significance. The Palomberu beech forest also adds to the natural beauty.

Spring and summer are popular times to visit, offering pleasant weather and the chance to see free-range cows grazing in the meadows. However, the area can get busy. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter offers a different, often snow-covered, landscape for those prepared for colder conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before your hike.

The hiking trails around Lake Enol are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning glacial lake views, the diverse terrain, and the well-maintained paths that lead through mountains and forests.

Due to the area's popularity, especially during peak seasons, private vehicle access to the Lakes of Covadonga is often restricted. During these times, visitors typically need to use designated buses or taxis from nearby towns like Cangas de Onís or Covadonga to reach the trailheads. Limited parking may be available during off-peak times, but it's always best to check current access regulations before your visit.

Yes, the Picos de Europa National Park is rich in wildlife. During spring and summer, you'll frequently encounter free-range cows with their characteristic cowbells echoing through the meadows. The area is also home to various bird species and other mammals, though many are more elusive. Maintaining a respectful distance and quiet observation will increase your chances of spotting local fauna.