International Sella Descent: History, Festival, and Route
The International Sella Descent is much more than just a sporting event: it’s a festival, an Asturian tradition, and an internationally recognized tourist event that every first Saturday in August transforms eastern Asturias into the world epicenter of canoeing.
🚶♂️ What Is the International Sella Descent
It’s an official canoeing regatta held annually between Arriondas and Ribadesella, covering 20 km along the Sella River. It gathers hundreds of athletes and thousands of spectators, turning the day into a truly unique experience.
The event is organized by the Canoeing Federation of the Principality of Asturias and is part of the Spanish Cup series. Only licensed paddlers can participate in the official race, but every summer thousands of people enjoy the same route recreationally.
🕗 Origin and History of the Descent
The history of the Descent dates back to 1930, when Dionisio de la Huerta and his friends took a recreational trip down the river. Over time, this sporting adventure evolved into a competitive race and then an international festival. Today it’s recognized as a Festival of International Tourist Interest and is a must-see event on Asturias’ cultural and sporting calendar.
➔ See Full History of the International Sella Descent
➔ Ver Historia completa del Descenso Internacional del Sella
📍 Official Descent Route
- Start: Arriondas Bridge (Km 0)
- Finish: Ribadesella Bridge (Km 20)
- Duration for professionals: around 1h10min
- Environment: spectacular landscapes with mountains, riverside forests, and river bends
➔ See Interactive Route Map
- Salida: Puente de Arriondas (Km 0)
- Llegada: Puente de Ribadesella (Km 20)
- Duración para profesionales: alrededor de 1h10min
- Entorno: paisajes espectaculares entre montañas, bosques de ribera y meandros del río
➔ Ver Mapa interactivo del Recorrido
🎉 Atmosphere and the Piraguas Festival
The Descent is also famous for its festive spirit:
- 🎶 The famous Fluvial Train follows the paddlers, filled with music and excitement.
- 😎 The riverbanks come alive with spectators, flags, and vibrant colors.
- 🌟 Arriondas and Ribadesella host concerts, fairs, and family-friendly activities.
➔ Learn More About the Festival Atmosphere
➔ Ver más sobre el ambiente festivo del Descenso
🇪🇸 Allume:
The night before the race, Arriondas transforms into a festive stage. Allume de Fiesta marks the official lighting of the Sella celebrations, with lanterns, bagpipes, and a distinct Asturian atmosphere.
➔ See Allume
🚩 Flag Raising Ceremony:
Just before the regatta starts, there’s a solemn flag-raising ceremony for the participating countries. This symbolic act highlights the Sella’s role as a meeting point of cultures, united through sport and tradition.
➔ See Flag Raising
🌍 Parade:
Before the race, a spectacular and colorful parade takes over the streets of Arriondas, featuring local groups such as Tritones, Selleros, Botijos, Entaína, Reyes, Roblón de Coya, and delegations of paddlers, bagpipers, military bands, etc. It’s a tribute to the event’s international scope and one of the most exciting moments for the public.
➔ See International Sella Descent Parade
🏅 Winners’ Roll of Honor
Check the historical results of the Descent:
✅ K1 Men / Women
✅ K2 Men / Women
✅ By country, club, and edition
➔ See All Sella Winners
📖 How to Enjoy the Descent as a Spectator
- 🌄 Choose the best spots along the route: Fuentes, Llovio, Toraño…
- 🚂 Take the Fluvial Train to follow the race from within.
- ☀️ Bring sun protection, water, and comfortable clothing.
- 📷 Don’t forget your phone or camera.
- ✨ Or if you prefer, you can do the tourist canoe descent another day!
🖥 Useful Links
- 📅 International Sella Descent 2025
- 📋 Frequently Asked Questions about the Descent
- 🌏 Sella River Map
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
⭐ When is the Sella Descent held?
The first Saturday in August after the 2nd. Click here to see by year.
⭐ How long is the race?
20 km from Arriondas to Ribadesella.
⭐ Can anyone participate?
Only licensed paddlers can compete officially, but the tourist descent is open all summer.
⭐ Where is the best place to watch?
Along the N-634 road or from the Fluvial Train.
📌 Conclusion
The International Sella Descent is an unmissable event for lovers of sport, nature, and Asturian culture. Experience it live or enjoy it through our website, where you’ll find up-to-date information and a permanent tribute to this unique festival of the Sella River.
▶️ Last updated: June 2025 — This quick guide is kept updated every season to remain the best resource on the International Sella Descent.
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