The Lagos de Covadonga Classic cycling event is one of the most spectacular sporting events in Cantabria. With nearly 2.000 participants , the peloton is a vibrant tapestry of color, and the day is rewarding for both riders and spectators. For the cyclists, it's a unique opportunity to take on one of cycling's most legendary challenges . For the spectators, it's an equally exceptional chance to witness a continuous peloton—the largest in Spain —filling the rural roads of eastern Asturias with color and the sheer effort of the riders throughout the day.
Witnessing two thousand cyclists constantly coming and going is extraordinary. The Lakes here become a mythical climb, accessible to cycling enthusiasts who come from all over Spain and abroad. The most prepared will take less time, though many will spend almost the entire day, but the important thing here is to reach the summit and fulfill a dream.
Classic Lakes of Covadonga 2026
This June 6, 2026… Read more
The route starts in Cangas de Onís , heading towards Arriondas , and from there follows the N-634 to Ribadesella (km 23,5). The route then continues along the AS-263 towards Llanes until reaching the town itself (km 51), where the first aid station is located. From there, the route follows the LLN7 towards Pancar, Parres, and Alto de la Tornería (km 62,5). This last climb is three and a half kilometers long, with the final two kilometers having gradients of up to 12%.
From here comes a long 9 km descent, with some dangerous curves, to Huera de Meré , km 71,5. In this town, the route connects with the AS-115 road to Alto de la Robellada , km 78. Turn right onto the AS-114 road, descending again to Soto de Cangas, km 93,8. Cross the AS-262 road to Covadonga , km 100, and the Lagos de Covadonga, where the race ends after 112 km of hard pedaling.
A route that goes from the sea to the mountain and that is full of beauty. The effort is amply compensated with this landscape, ideal as only for the practice of bicycle touring.
A day filled with the cheers of the loyal roadside crowds, countless anecdotes from the various sections, and the personal stories and adventures of the riders. They can choose to take it easy and tackle the course with friends, or fight for the top spot, constantly shifting positions, falling behind only to rejoin a leading group, dropping back completely, or pushing hard to catch the strongest. And along the way, there will be monumental bonks and stretches where you can pedal almost alone (though this is impossible except for those at the front), false starts, changes of pace, and the occasional joke if our lungs allow it.
Someone teases us by overtaking us on the climb, and far from getting nervous, we keep an eye on our heart rate, because the podium is the least important thing here . It's simply about feeling good about our own fitness, having a good stage, enjoying our own time, being the most consistent rider for ourselves, and putting on a cyclist's face no matter what weather this special day brings. A special day on which we've decided to test our capacity for suffering.
To ensure an exceptional day, the organizers go the extra mile and offer the best services to cyclists. Road safety is guaranteed by the Traffic Division of the Civil Guard, and the organization is also meticulous at the numerous crossings and intersections, where personnel are always present to direct traffic and mark the route. Equally attentive is the roadside assistance provided for those who experience a flat tire or any other unforeseen problem.
The aid stations are generous. And ultimately, the facilities in Cangas de Onís available to the riders after the race are worthy of a professional event. Every year, renowned cyclists gather at the start, and tributes are paid to prominent figures in Spanish cycling. For all these reasons, this classic race at the Lakes of Covadonga is one of the most established cycling events in the country.
Information:
Route: 112 kilometers.
The organization puts at the disposal of the runners' companions a free bus that will depart from Cangas de Onís five minutes after the start of the race and later will approach different points of the route to follow the course of the march.
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
