We decided that we really wanted to check out more of Northern Spain along with the cooler temps and headed to Asturias. Absolutely beautiful country. Our 1st partial day was squeezing in the Santuario y Basilica de Cavadonga and Los Lagos de Cavadonga.

It is believed that this cave was initially used during the reconquest of Spain.

The 1st King of Asturias supposedly fled to this cave during the Battle of Cavadonga and that the Virgin Mary intervened in repelling attacks against the cave. **No waterfall at this time of year.

Ultimately, it is understood that this is the place where Christian europe was saved and stopped the Islamic invasion.

The interior of the Basilica.

A padre contemplating scripture amidst his surroundings.

The Basilica de Santa Maria la Real de Covadonga and it is made entirely of pink limestone.

It’s backdrop and looking from the Santuario.

Only in Spain would the parking lot be overflowing to a small hiking spot at 9:30pm.

One of the Lagos de Cavadonga, de Enol. There are a bunch cows grazing down there.

Yes, the goats didn’t mind the traffic coming down after sunset. We have seen so many animals out and about in Asturias.