It is undoubtedly the most original element of the International Descent of the Sella.
It originated in 1945 due to fuel shortages and a lack of available vehicles. Organizers wanted to make use of the “Económicos de Asturias” railway line, which runs parallel to the riverbank. By 1947, it had grown to 19 carriages, and in 1950, a limit of 20 carriages was set by regulations, even though demand kept rising.
Ticket price: €60 (includes a bollu preñau—a traditional stuffed bread roll—and drinks).
It departs from Arriondas, making various stops along the route so passengers can better appreciate the race.
The journey ends at the banks of the Ribadesella estuary, allowing spectators to see the winners cross the finish line. It is tradition for the most senior engineer at FEVE to drive the River Train.
You can buy tickets at:
-
Oviedo Train Station
-
Gijón Train Station
You can also book by calling 902 555 902.
The “Tren de les Piragües” consists of 11 passenger coaches and 2 baggage vans, with a total capacity of around 450 passengers. It departs Arriondas Station at 12:15 pm and follows the International Descent of the Sella all the way to Ribadesella Port.
Your ticket also lets you board the train departing Oviedo at 07:30h, as well as trains from other stations along the route. In Gijón, you can catch a standard-gauge Cercanías train at 06:16h to Oviedo to join the River Train. From the east, there’s also a train departing Ribadesella Station at 09:15h bound for Arriondas.
Travelers will have time in Arriondas to watch the parade and see the canoe start, but they must hurry back to the station to board the River Train, which leaves punctually at 12:15h.
Return trip: The “Tren de les Piragües” departs Llovio at 17:45h. Tickets are also valid on any narrow-gauge train between Ribadesella and Oviedo or Gijón that day.
tag: fluvial train of the international descent of the sella
One Comment