The scenic rivers of Asturias provide some of northern Spain’s best paddling experiences.
The standout trip is the classic 20km Sella River descent from Arriondas to Ribadesella – a full-day guided journey that showcases dramatic mountain scenery and includes all safety equipment.
Families and beginners will appreciate the gentler 4km route from Cangas de Onís, while the highly-rated 4km stretch near Picos de Europa offers a perfect balance of scenery and excitement.
I especially love the Arriondas route for its expert guides and stunning limestone gorges.
Check out these recommended river trips.
Key Points
- The Arriondas Canoeing Adventure offers a full-day 20km journey down the Sella River, guided by Spanish-speaking instructors with essential safety gear.
- The Sella River Descent by Canoe provides a popular 4km tour through the scenic Picos de Europa, led by experienced guides and priced at €25 per person.
- Cangas de Onís serves as the gateway to the Sella River, offering exclusive 4km, 12km, and 19km canoeing routes with flexible booking options.
- Asturias boasts a variety of additional nature activities, including guided trips and walking tours, complementing the canoeing experiences.
- The canoeing adventures in Asturias are highly rated, with 4.6/5 and 4.7/5 reviews, catering to diverse traveler preferences and skill levels.
Arriondas: Canoeing Adventure Descent on the Sella River
The Arriondas: Canoeing Adventure Descent on the Sella River offers an exhilarating outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts. This full-day adventure takes participants on a 20-kilometer canoeing journey from Arriondas to Ribadesella, providing the opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery of Asturias.
The experience begins with an instructional briefing at the jetty, ensuring participants are equipped with the necessary skills and safety gear, including life jackets and watertight storage bottles. Under the guidance of Spanish-speaking instructors, guests will paddle through the serene waters, spotting wildlife and taking in the local sights along the way.
Suitable for ages 6 and above, this activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or those with low fitness levels. Participants should come prepared with appropriate attire and personal items, including sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes.
With a 4.6/5 rating based on 7 reviews, the Arriondas: Canoeing Adventure Descent on the Sella River promises an unforgettable day of outdoor exploration and adventure.
Read our full review: Arriondas: Canoeing Adventure Descent on the Sella River Review
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Descent of the Sella River by Canoe
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Asturias is the descent of the Sella River by canoe. The Sella River Exclusive descent offers a 4km journey through the stunning Picos de Europa mountain range. This small group tour lasts one full day and is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50 reviews.
The river descent is suitable for all audiences, with experienced guides leading the way. Participants can expect to paddle through scenic landscapes, spotting wildlife along the banks. The activity is priced at €25 per person, making it an accessible adventure for visitors to the region.
Along With the Sella River descent, Asturias offers a range of other nature and adventure activities. From guided day trips to the Lakes of Covadonga to walking tours of historic Oviedo, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the stunning natural beauty of this northern Spanish province.
Read our full review: Descent of the Sella River by Canoe Review
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Cangas De Onís: Sella River Canoeing Adventure
Nestled in the heart of Asturias, Cangas de Onís serves as the prime gateway to the Sella River canoeing adventure.
Promising an exclusive 4km descent, this activity starts at €2,224 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, along with flexible booking options.
Thrill-seekers can choose from three different route options: 4km, 12km, or 19km, each offering scenic views and several riffles along the way.
The off-the-beaten-track section between Las Rozas and Arriondas allows adventurers to avoid crowds, especially during the busy summer months.
With top-notch equipment provided, including life jackets, paddles, and wetsuits for cooler seasons, this experience caters to a wide range of ages, from 5 and above.
Boasting an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 50 reviews, the Sella River canoeing adventure in Cangas de Onís promises an unforgettable outdoor escapade for families, solo travelers, and groups alike.
Read our full review: Cangas De Onís: Sella River Canoeing Adventure Review
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Recap
The Sella River in Asturias offers thrilling canoe and kayak experiences for adventurous travelers. Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping descent from Arriondas or the scenic journey from Cangas de Onís, these water activities provide an exhilarating way to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes. With its rapids, calm stretches, and breathtaking vistas, the Sella River is a premier destination for those seeking an unforgettable water-based adventure in Asturias.