The journey of the Sella River descent covers about 15 kilometers between the towns of Arriondas and Fríes. Along the way, we have a great variety of sections, each with its own idiosyncrasies and a wonderful view of one of Asturias’ most beloved rivers. 

The five bridges that we will encounter on the way are the points that will serve as our reference. Below, we will provide information about the rapids, the river beaches, or chiringuitos that are on the route that you are going to undertake. 

A brief history of the descent and why it follows this route To know where and how the Sella River descent originated, we have to go back to 1929 when three friends from the area: Manés Fernández, Dionisio de la Huerta, and Benigno Morán, took a small trip from Coya to Arriondas along the Piloña River (a tributary of the Sella River). In 1932, they changed the start and end to the current ones, Arriondas and Ribadesella. Years went by, and every day there are more kayakers who participate in the competition, which has an international character. Just in the 2018 Sella River descent, more than 1,000 people took part. The route for beginners 

The descent of the Sella River for beginners starts in Arriondas, and the distance covered is slightly less than that of professional kayakers. Pick-up points In our company, we have two pick-up points: one that is located in the middle, in Toraño (about 7 km away), which is chosen by those who do not want to complete the entire itinerary, and another in the town of Fríes (14 km away). 

Map of the Sella River descent route from Arriondas Departure from Arriondas, capital of the Parres council Arriondas is the starting point. The canoes are launched into the river from the piers of our company. There are two ways to start. 

The bravest can do it through our ramp of more than 35 meters, the longest in the Sella River. Although it may seem like it, it is not at all dangerous, and the little ones in the house appreciate this way of starting. For the rest, they start from the shore in a more peaceful way. Canoeing through Arriondas Several canoes from different companies pass through the area of the Puente de las Piraguas in Arriondas. 

We reach the first rapid: La Raíz About 200 meters from our departure, we find this rabion, which is nothing more than a zone of the river where the current is faster, picking up some speed, but it is passed without any problem. Then, it curves to the right, and the waters calm down. 

Km 1: La Remolina 

We are arriving at the first kilometer, and another rabion awaits us, that of La Remolina. Again, the canoes accelerate. The waters form two currents in the shape of a «V,» and the key is to position the canoe in the middle of both to pass without problems. And after the storm, calm returns in the form of calm waters. 

El Ricao In this area, where the river narrows, the locals spend good times fishing since it is a salmon fishing reserve, one of the species found in the river. The river has a serpentine shape in this place of calm waters. 

Km. 3: Los LLaos and Fuentes Footbridge 

We are now entering a more rugged area, and the landscape is becoming more beautiful. Los Llaos is a stretch of rapids with a more significant flow than the previous ones. Here we can see some «chiringuitos,» river beaches, where we can rest, have a drink or enjoy a picnic. The Fuentes Footbridge, the second bridge that we will find on our route, is a perfect place to take a dip in the river. After a few meters, we come across a section of the river with more rocks than usual, which makes the route more exciting. The rapid is a short stretch where the water hits the rocks with more force than before.

Km. 5: El Picu

The Picu is the longest rapid on the route, with a length of about 200 meters. Here, the water forms several rapids with different heights, and it is essential to follow the instructions of the guide to pass them safely. However, it is also the most exciting and fun part of the journey.

Km. 7: El Vau

After passing through some more relaxed sections of the river, we reach El Vau, a long and deep pool, where we can take a break and relax while enjoying the scenery.

Km. 10: Toraño

We are now in Toraño, the pick-up point for those who do not want to complete the entire route. At this point, we have already covered approximately seven kilometers, and we have passed through some of the most beautiful and exciting sections of the river.

Km. 12: Puente de Ribadesella

We are approaching the end of our journey, and we are already in the municipality of Ribadesella. The Puente de Ribadesella, the third bridge that we will find on our route, marks the beginning of the last section of the descent.

Km. 15: Fríes

Finally, we reach Fríes, the endpoint of our journey, where we can leave the canoes and enjoy a well-deserved rest after an unforgettable experience.