The 2026 International Descent of the Sella River now has a date. The 88th edition is here to once again bring together sport, tradition, and celebration in Asturias for one of Spain's most renowned canoeing competitions. Discover everything you need to know about this iconic sporting event, always accompanied by plenty of festivities and tradition.
What is the International Descent of the Sella River?
The International Descent of the Sella, popularly known as Las Piraguas, is a marathon canoeing competition that connects Arriondas and Ribadesella. The main distance is approximately 20 kilometres, although some categories finish earlier, in Llovio.
Its origin lies in an excursion made in 1929. In 1930, the first descent considered part of the history of the event was completed, while in 1932 the first competitive edition was held between Arriondas and Ribadesella.
One of its most recognisable moments is the Sella-style start. Participants wait on land with their boats and paddles attached to a structure that is released at the start of the race. Beforehand, traditional verses are recited, the crowd sings 'Asturias, patria querida' (Asturias, beloved homeland), and the paddlers run towards the water.
The sporting event is reserved for participants who meet the federation requirements established by the organisers. The public, however, can watch it free of charge from various vantage points. On the other hand, the tourist canoe trips are separate activities and do require reservations and payment.
When is the 2026 International Descent of the Sella River?
The 2026 International Descent of the Sella River will take place on Saturday, August 8th, marking its 88th edition. The date respects the tradition of holding the race on the first Saturday of August after the 2nd.
The competitive start usually takes place at 12:00, but the final schedule and the rest of the events should be checked in the official program when it is published by the organisation.
How to watch the International Descent of the Sella River
The town of Arriondas is the ideal place to watch the pre-parade events and the spectacular start. It's best to arrive early in the morning—preferably before 10:00—because the town centre becomes congested due to the parade, the large crowds, and traffic restrictions.
Those who prefer to follow other sections can go to the riverbank in Toraño, Fríes, or Llovio, while Ribadesella offers the best view of the finish. The River Train accompanies the race and makes stops to watch it from different points, but a special ticket is required, and seats are limited.
Prices for the 2026 International Descent of the Sella River
Watching the race from the streets and public areas along the route is completely free. There is no general admission ticket to attend the start.
If what you're really looking for is kayaking down the Sella River yourself, the price usually ranges between 25 and 40 euros per adult and between 15 and 30 euros per child.
The Canoe Festival
The Canoe Festival is the popular celebration surrounding the race. Arriondas is the hub of the pre-race atmosphere, with local groups, music, an opening ceremony, a parade of tritons, bagpipe bands, and brass bands. The collective singing of the Asturian anthem marks the transition between the festivities and the competition.
After the start, the celebration moves towards Ribadesella and the Campos de Oba, in Llovio, where the participants' meal and the awards ceremony traditionally take place.
Programme for the International Descent of the Sella River 2026
The official, detailed program for the 88th edition has yet to be confirmed by the organisers. However, these are the events that typically take place on the day and in the days leading up to the event.
- Thursday: Arrival and gathering of the peñas (local social clubs) in Arriondas. During this day, the festive atmosphere begins to build.
- Friday:
- Pre-event activities, music and a festive atmosphere in Arriondas.
- The opening ceremony, the presentation of participants, the tributes and the raising of flags are also usually celebrated.
- Saturday:
- Reception of authorities and traditional parade through Arriondas, with bagpipe bands, folk groups and brass bands.
- Reading of the opening verses and singing of ' Asturias, beloved homeland'. The identity of the person in charge of the 2026 opening speech has not been confirmed.
- At 12:00 noon, the 88th International Descent of the Sella River departs from Arriondas. The time should be verified.
- After the start, the River Train will run parallel to the race route. Its schedules, stops, fares, and conditions will depend on the special service announced by Renfe.
- The first boats arrive in Ribadesella in the early afternoon. The exact time will depend on the start schedule and the pace of the race.
- In the afternoon, lunch for participants and the awards ceremony will take place at Campos de Oba, followed by festivities in Ribadesella. Final schedules are pending.
- Sunday: Closing ceremonies are sometimes held, but there is no confirmed information for this year.
Before travelling, it will be necessary to consult the final program, the traffic plan, and the special transport services.
Living in Arriondas
Arriondas is the capital of the municipality of Parres and serves as one of the main service centres in eastern Asturias. Its location allows residents to enjoy the natural surroundings as well as shops, restaurants, and road and rail connections.
For much of the year, it offers a relaxed pace and direct access to trails, mountains and river activities.
