Arriondas lies in a broad valley surrounded by mountains, at the confluence of the Sella and Piloña rivers. The river is central both to the famous Sella River Descent festival and to recreational canoe trips. Local festival traditions, cultural venues and routes through the countryside add to the appeal. If you are looking for accommodation in Arriondas, you can plan your stay around a particular interest: the Sella, the town’s history or the trails in the surrounding area.

The Sella River Descent and canoe trips

The Fiesta de las Piraguas, also known as the Descenso Internacional del Sella or Les piragües, is an internationally recognised festival of tourist interest. The race starts in Arriondas/Les Arriondes and follows the Sella for 20 kilometres to Ribadesella/Ribeseya. If you are planning to travel for the event, check the specific dates.

Recreational canoe trips on the Sella also start in Arriondas. Operators rent canoes and offer guided packages; no prior experience is required. The race and the canoe trips connect the town with the river in different ways: one follows a set race course, while the other is a leisure activity. Before travelling, check which services the operator actually has available during your visit.

Festivals, culture and local history

The Fiesta del Bollu, also known as La Peruyal, is celebrated in Arriondas, the capital of the municipality of Parres. It combines a traditional Asturian romería with bollu preñao, cider and a parade of floats. The historic quarter of La Peruyal is the festival’s focal point. While the Fiesta de las Piraguas centres on the Sella and the race, this festival focuses on a local tradition. Check the dates before planning your trip.

The Casa de Cultura Benito Pérez Galdós is located in the centre of Arriondas in a former school building. Its facilities include an exhibition room and a conference or event hall. Prehistoric heritage is also part of the town’s history: the Arriondas area has archaeological sites, including the Cueva de Taragaño. Its architectural heritage includes various churches, palaces, mills and centuries-old manor houses.

Countryside and routes

Arriondas’s natural heritage includes numerous streams and scenic gorges. A cycling route runs from Colunga to Arriondas along the Sierra del Sueve mountain range and over Alto del Fitu, with views of the Picos de Europa. It combines a longer route with described mountain and distant views.

The Cea Cetín route starts in Arriondas and ends in Cea Cetín. It is recommended in autumn, when a variety of colours develops along the route. From there, you can continue to Mota on foot or in an off-road vehicle, in either of two directions. Check the route conditions before setting off. Another way to enjoy the scenery is the La Verde route: it leads to Pendás, from where there are beautiful views of the Picos de Europa and the Sella valley.

Practical information for visitors

Santianes del Terrón has an Arriondas motorhome stopover, about one kilometre from the town centre, with around 50 spaces. The distance and capacity are approximate; check the stopover’s facilities and access rules before arriving.

Puente Emilio Llamedo has wider traffic lanes and pavements, as well as a cantilevered viewing platform with a glass floor above the Sella. For adventure activities, Cangas Aventura offers activities for individuals and groups at Finca La Dehesa on the Sella, including quad biking and buggy tours. The site has private parking, changing rooms, a picnic area and rest areas. Check activity availability before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Covadonga, Cardes, Cangas De Onis, Soto De Cangas, Perlleces, Mestas De Con, Tornín, Nieda.

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