Coviella combines its setting on the Sella with distinctive traces of its history: a cave with rock carvings, a Baroque palace and the Chapel of San Antonio. There is also the Camín de la Reina and activities such as caving, canoeing and hiking. Those choosing Coviella as a destination will find a range of themes to consider when planning their trip—from architectural history and archaeology to a hike lasting several hours.

Village Character and History on the Sella

Coviella lies on the banks of the Sella in the Cangas de Onís area; the river continues towards Arriondas. Hills and paths between spacious green properties shape the village’s character. The landscape is therefore an integral part of the area’s identity, alongside its historic buildings and rock art.

Its history also gives Coviella a distinctive character: the village retains the feel of a former medieval lordship associated with the founding of the Kingdom of Asturias. This historical context sits alongside the specific buildings, which offer a glimpse of later architecture. The different themes are easy to distinguish: the cave represents rock carvings, the palace and chapel architectural history, and the Camín a hike with a stated distance and duration.

Rock Carvings and Protected Cultural Heritage

Coviella is home to the Cueva de la Peña de la Morca. The cave has been declared a Bien de Interés Cultural; four groups of simple linear rock carvings have been preserved there. The number and simple form of the carvings give this archaeological site its distinctive character. The cave is therefore a different cultural landmark from the village’s Baroque buildings: here, prehistoric depictions take centre stage, while those buildings reflect the architecture and decoration of a later period.

Palacio de Faes and the Chapel of San Antonio

Palacio de Faes is in the highest part of Coviella. The Baroque Palacio de los Faes dates from the 18th century, has three storeys and bears a family coat of arms. Enclosed by a wall, the estate comprises the palace and a large garden; the walls, coat of arms and garden are among the ensemble’s defining architectural features.

The Chapel of San Antonio is another chapter in the area’s architectural history. The freestanding building dates from 1738 and was later connected to the adjoining palace by a bridge. Inside, the chapel has a single-nave layout, a straight-ended chancel with an attached sacristy, and a Baroque altarpiece featuring images from the same period. The combination of a freestanding building and its later connection to the palace makes the development of the complex easy to follow, while the details of the altarpiece draw attention to its decoration.

Hiking and Activities

The Camín de la Reina passes through La Coviella. The route is approximately 11 kilometres long, with an estimated walking time of four or five hours. The actual duration may vary depending on conditions and pace; check local trail conditions before setting out. This makes the Camín a good option for a hike lasting several hours, distinct from the village’s architecture- and history-focused attractions.

At Frontera Verde in Coviella, activities on offer include caving, canoeing and hiking. The address is El Portazgo in Coviella. Together with the Camín de la Reina, these provide different ways to plan a trip: a longer hike or activities with a different focus. The route information can help with time planning; when choosing where to stay, you can also consider whether you would prefer to focus on the historic buildings and rock art, or on the landscape and outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Ricabo, La Arquera, La Robellada, Endriga, Prieres, Sinariega, Merás, Villademoros.

For the broader travel overview: Asturias.