The group rallied together to get an early start to the day and by 10:30 we were on our way to the the famous Picos de Europa, a beautiful mountain range just an hour south of Llanes. As we wound our way up the twisting mountain roads we were treated to magnificent views of the tall peaks and lush forestry for which this region is renowned. We also ran into a few typically Asturian traffic jams, as free-roaming herds of sheep and cattle joined us on the pico-turesque country roads.
On the bus, we learned a typical Spanish chant (used before bull fights and similar spectacles), courtesy of yours truly, as well as modern Spanish rock and pop music, thanks to Daniel’s impressive command of contemporary Spanish music.
A view of the first mountain lake. Pictures don’t do it justice!
Most of the group at the first mountain lake
We then rounded a bend and came face-to-face with the most breathtaking view: a serene mountain lake, tucked into the green crevices of the picos. A light mist hung over the scene, and once we descended from the bus the sounds of cattle bells echoing throughout the hills added to the romantic, rustic nature of the setting.
Surrounded by grazing cattle, we climbed down a path to approach the crystal clear waters of the freshwater lake. Ducks swam peacefully across the glassy surface, and many an Instagram picture was taken here.
Jilly, Shelby and Jen with their new best friend, la vaca de Covadonga!
Talking about cows, a popular topic of conversation today.
Enjoying our bocadillos (sandwiches) by the mountain lake.
After exploring the surrounding valley for a while, we hopped back onto the bus to visit a second lake, located nearby, where we briefly hiked and then sat to enjoy a picnic together near the water.
Following our packed lunch, we walked to a nearby restaurant and took in the scenery while warming up with mugs of hot cocoa. More than one student mentioned that the location reminded them of the opening scene of the Sound of Music, where Maria runs through the hills of Austria — maybe it’s not a coincidence that its an anagram of Asturia!
In front of the Basilica of Covadonga.
After this excursion, we headed back in the direction of Llanes, by way of Covadonga, a small parish nestled into the mountainside. Here, we visited the Basilica, a beautiful and imposing building that dates back to the late 19th century, as well as the Sacred Cave of Covadonga. This is the resting place of the first King of Asturias, Don Pelayo, a leader of the Spanish reconquista, and proved to be an opportune moment to review some history of Spain.
By the sacred cave of Covadonga, which houses an open-air church and a small waterfall.
Colin, Emma, Jen and Sarah, checking out the waterfall in the sacred cave.
For the last stop on our excursion, we visited Cangas de Onís, a small town just 12 kilometers from Covadonga, where we were able to briefly experience Spanish village life and treat ourselves to a quick snack. The bus ride back also proved to be a learning experience, as we played a guessing game in Spanish that gave rise to new vocabulary and an opportunity to show how much of the language we already know.
Finally, for dinner we sampled local delicacies at a delicious restaurant overlooking the harbor. The platters, which we ordered to share, included copious amounts of freshly caught seafood, grilled vegetables, homemade sausages, and savory Asturian cheeses. Some of the savory dishes coaxed us out of our comfort zones, and we ended on a sweet note with a variety of homemade desserts.
We’ve been so busy thus far that tomorrow we’ve planned a more relaxing agenda that includes a Spanish pronunciation activity, a swim in the ocean at a nearby beach, and time to stroll or shop around town.
Hasta pronto!
– Camila y Daniel