The International Sella Descent 2018 is just around the corner. Also known as the festival of Les Piragües, this event is the most emblematic of Spanish canoeing and one of the most prestigious competitions at an international level. It’s not just a race, it’s the first Spanish festival of a festive-sporting nature declared of International Tourist Interest.
An event you can’t miss! Discover it with us!
1930: Starting Gun for the Sella Descent
The history of the Sella Descent begins with Dionisio de la Huerta, who in 1929 decided to undertake a canoe excursion with some friends during his vacation in Asturias. In this adventure, they covered a 5-kilometer route along the Piloña River, thus laying the foundations for what would become the competition we know today, leading up to the celebration of this International Sella Descent 2018.
In 1930, Dionisio and his friends made the first official descent of the Sella from Arriondas. This first attempt was full of stops to empty the canoe, breaks to eat and enjoy the scenery. After 14 kilometers and 7 hours of descent, the adventure ended at nightfall. Without knowing it, they had created the cornerstone of one of the most popular festivals in Asturias.
A year later, in 1931, Arriondas and Ribadesella were established as the official start and finish points. Despite the interruption during the Civil War, the event resurfaced and in 1951 it acquired international character by including foreign competitors for the first time.
Currently, the International Sella Descent exceeds a thousand paddlers each year, consolidating itself as one of the most important events in world canoeing.
Experience the International Sella Descent 2018 with Us
This Sella Descent 2018, celebrates its 83rd edition. During the event, Arriondas and Ribadesella transform into the tourist epicenter of Asturias. From early in the morning, the excitement is palpable. Seeing the canoeists run towards their boats and start the descent is an impressive visual experience.
At Cangas Aventura we want you to live this unique experience. We invite you to feel the same excitement as the canoeists, descending the Sella River. Join us with a canoe in this International Sella Descent, where history and passion for Asturias meet.
If you want, you can schedule your own Sella Descent 2018 with us during the celebration, or at any other time. We depart from the same point as the competitors and finish in Llovio. For more information, visit our section on Sella Descent.
Mark the Date!
On the upcoming August 4, 2018, you are our guest of honor to descend the Sella River. We offer you the largest parking area in the zone, located right next to the starting point. You can begin your adventure from the same spot as the competitors of the International Sella Descent 2018.
Come to Cangas Aventura and embark on the adventure!