International Sella River Descent: History, Festival and Official Route
The International Sella River Descent is much more than a sporting event—it’s a festival, an Asturian tradition, and an internationally renowned tourist attraction that transforms eastern Asturias into the global epicenter of canoeing every first Saturday in August.
🚶♂️ What is the International Sella River Descent?
It’s an official canoeing race held annually between Arriondas and Ribadesella, covering 20 km along the Sella River. Hundreds of athletes compete, cheered on by thousands of spectators who turn the day into a truly unique experience.
The event is organized by the Canoeing Federation of the Principality of Asturias and counts towards the Spanish Cup. Participation is limited to licensed paddlers, but every summer thousands of people enjoy the same route recreationally.
🕗 Origin and History of the Descent
The story begins in 1930, when Dionisio de la Huerta and his friends took a recreational canoe trip down the river. Over time, that pioneering gesture evolved into a competitive event and then into an international festival. Today, it’s classified as a Festival of International Tourist Interest and is a must-see on Asturias’ cultural and sporting calendar.
➔ Read the Complete History of the Sella River Descent
📍 Official Race Route
- Start: Arriondas Bridge (Km 0)
- Finish: Ribadesella Bridge (Km 20)
- Duration for professionals: Around 1h10min
- Scenery: Spectacular landscapes featuring mountains, riverside forests, and winding meanders
➔ View Interactive Map of the Route
🎉 Atmosphere and the Asturias Canoe Festival
The Descent is famous not only for the race but for its festive atmosphere:
🎶 The iconic River Train follows the paddlers with music and celebrations on board.
😎 The riverbanks fill with spectators, flags, and vibrant color.
🌟 Arriondas and Ribadesella host concerts, fairs, street parties, and family activities.
➔ Learn More About the Festival Atmosphere
🇪🇸 Allume:
The night before the race, Arriondas transforms into a festival stage. The Allume de Fiesta marks the official start of the Sella celebrations with lights, bagpipes, and authentic Asturian spirit.
➔ See More About the Allume Ceremony
🚩 Flag-Raising Ceremony:
Just before the race begins, there’s a solemn ceremony to raise the flags of participating countries. This symbolic act celebrates the Sella as a meeting point of cultures, united by sport and tradition.
➔ See the Flag-Raising Ceremony
🌍 Parade:
Before the race, a spectacular and colorful parade takes over the streets of Arriondas. Local associations such as Tritones, Selleros, Botijos, Entaína, Reyes, Roblón de Coya, and delegations of paddlers, pipers, soldiers, and more take part. It’s a tribute to the international spirit of the event and one of the most exciting moments for the crowd.
➔ See the International Sella Descent Parade
🏅 Winner’s Records
Check out the historical results of Sella winners:
- Men’s and Women’s K1
- Men’s and Women’s K2
- By country, club, and edition
➔ See All Sella Winners
📖 How to Experience the Descent as a Spectator
🌄 Choose the best viewing points along the route: Fuentes, Llovio, Toraño…
🚂 Ride the River Train to follow the race from inside the action.
☀️ Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing.
📷 Don’t forget your phone or camera.
✨ Or if you prefer, you can enjoy the tourist canoe descent on another day.
🖥 Useful Links
📅 International Sella River Descent 2025
📋 FAQs About the Descent
🌏 Map of the Sella River
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
⭐ What day is the Sella Descent held?
The first Saturday in August after the 2nd. Click here for dates by year.
⭐ What distance is the race?
20 km from Arriondas to Ribadesella.
⭐ Can anyone participate?
Only licensed paddlers in the official race. But the tourist descent is available all summer.
⭐ Where’s the best place to watch?
Along the N-634 road or from the River Train.
📌 Conclusion
The International Sella River 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 all the latest information and a permanent tribute to this unique celebration of the Sella River.
