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The Ultimate Guide To The 87th Descenso Del Sella 2025: Dates, Race, And The Fiesta De Las Piraguas

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The International Descent of the Sella (Descenso Internacional del Sella) is not just a canoeing race; it is a declared Festival of International Tourist Interest and one of Spain's most spectacular summer parties. As of today, December 26, 2025, the official date for the 87th edition in 2025 has been confirmed, solidifying its status as the must-attend event for sports enthusiasts and party-goers alike. This comprehensive guide provides the freshest, most up-to-date information on the 2025 event, from the race logistics and registration details to the week-long cultural immersion of the accompanying Fiesta de las Piraguas.

The convergence of elite international athletes, a challenging 20-kilometer river course, and a massive, cider-fueled street party makes the Sella Descent an unparalleled experience in the northern Spanish region of Asturias. The 2025 edition promises to be as vibrant and competitive as ever, drawing thousands of spectators to the towns of Arriondas and Ribadesella. Whether you plan to paddle or simply cheer from the famous "Sella Train," understanding the history and schedule is crucial for navigating this incredible event.

The 87th Descenso del Sella 2025: Dates, Course, and History

The International Descent of the Sella is an annual pilgrimage for canoeists and a cornerstone of Asturian tradition. Its history is as rich as the local culture, rooted in a simple adventure that grew into a global sporting phenomenon.

Official 2025 Event Details

  • Official Race Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025.
  • Edition: 87th Descenso Internacional del Sella.
  • Start Time: 12:00h (Noon).
  • Start Location: Arriondas, on the Sella River.
  • Finish Line: Ribadesella (specifically, the Dionisio de la Huerta Bridge).
  • Course Length: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

The Visionary: Dionisio de la Huerta

The entire event owes its existence to the adventurous spirit of Dionisio de la Huerta. Born in Barcelona in 1899 with strong Asturian roots, Dionisio is the undisputed father of the Sella Descent. His initial inspiration came from a simple canoe trip on the nearby Piloña River in 1929, alongside his friends, Dr. Morán and Manés Fernández. This initial excursion led to the first official descent of the Sella in 1930, featuring just 14 participants. The tradition and ceremonies introduced by Dionisio de la Huerta have since become central to the entire Fiesta de las Piraguas, ensuring his legacy lives on in every cheer and every paddle stroke.

The Race: Rules, Categories, and the Thrilling Mass Start

The Descenso del Sella is a highly competitive event, attracting over a thousand paddlers from more than 20 countries, all vying for victory in one of the world's most famous flatwater canoeing competitions.

Competition Categories and Regulations

The race is governed by the regulations of the Royal Spanish Canoe Federation (R.F.E.P.) and is open to athletes with the appropriate licensing. The primary competition categories are:

  • K1 and K2: Single (K1) and double (K2) kayaks are the main classes, with separate races for Men, Women, and Mixed crews.
  • Cadet Category: Younger athletes are permitted to compete in their own specific category.
  • Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Race: A newer but growing element of the Sella weekend is the SUP River Race, featuring categories like SUP 1, SUP 2 (tandem), and SUP 4.

The Iconic Start at Arriondas

The race start is perhaps the most chaotic and thrilling moment of the entire weekend. At 12:00h, the thousands of canoes are lined up on the riverbank in Arriondas. The atmosphere is electric, fueled by the crowds and the ceremonial drinking of Asturian cider (sidra). The official start is preceded by the singing of the beloved Asturian Anthem, after which the starting pistol fires, triggering a massive, simultaneous rush of canoes into the Sella River. This mass start is a spectacle of power and precision, as paddlers fight for position in the opening kilometers of the course.

Fiesta de las Piraguas: A Week-Long Asturian Celebration

The International Descent is inseparable from the Fiesta de las Piraguas (Festival of the Canoes), also known locally as "Les Piragües." This is a week-long cultural and sporting celebration that transforms the entire region of Asturias, particularly the towns of Arriondas and Ribadesella, into a massive, open-air party.

Programme and Traditions (August 4-9, 2025)

While the race takes place on Saturday, August 9, the festival atmosphere begins days earlier, often starting the Monday before. Key cultural elements and traditions include:

  • The Parade: On the morning of the race, a vibrant parade featuring traditional costumes, brass bands, and folklore groups travels from Arriondas to the starting line.
  • Cultural Immersion: The festival is a perfect opportunity to experience the unique culture of Asturias, from tasting the regional Cabrales Cheese to mastering the art of pouring sidra (cider) from a height, a tradition known as *escanciado*.
  • Music and Nightlife: The nights leading up to and following the race are filled with concerts, street parties, and temporary bars (chiringuitos) set up along the riverbanks and in the town centers, creating a non-stop festive atmosphere.
  • The Sella Train (Tren Fluvial): This unique river train runs parallel to the Sella River for much of the 20km course, allowing thousands of spectators to follow the race in real-time, cheering on the competitors and adding to the carnival atmosphere.

Essential Spectator and Travel Guide for Sella 2025

Attending the Descenso del Sella as a spectator requires careful planning, especially regarding accommodation and transportation, as the area around the Sella River, which is close to the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, becomes heavily congested.

Where to Watch the Race

Choosing the right viewing point is key to maximizing your experience. The two most popular and strategic locations are:

  1. Arriondas (The Start): The energy here is unmatched. Arrive early (before 8:00h) to witness the pre-race preparations, the atmosphere, and the chaotic, spectacular mass start at noon.
  2. Ribadesella (The Finish): The final stretch to the Dionisio de la Huerta Bridge is where the winners are decided. The atmosphere is tense and celebratory, with the finish line offering the best view of the elite paddlers crossing the line.
  3. Mid-Course Points: For a more relaxed view, strategic points along the river accessible by the Sella Train or car (if you arrive extremely early) include "El Arco" and "La Vieyera."

Accommodation and Logistics

Given the immense popularity of the event, booking accommodation in advance is essential. The area offers a variety of options:

  • Arriondas and Ribadesella: These towns are the epicenter of the action, but hotels, rural houses, and apartments book up months in advance.
  • Cangas de Onís: Located nearby, Cangas de Onís is a popular alternative, offering proximity to the Sella River and the majestic Picos de Europa mountains.
  • Camping: Many attendees opt to camp overnight in designated areas to secure the best spots and fully immerse themselves in the *Fiesta* atmosphere.
  • Transportation: The Sella Train is the recommended way to follow the race. For all other travel, expect significant road closures and traffic congestion around the main race day. Plan to arrive the day before or early in the morning on August 9th to secure parking.

The 87th Descenso del Sella in 2025 promises a blend of world-class canoeing and unforgettable Asturian revelry. From the historical significance established by Dionisio de la Huerta to the modern-day spectacle of the mass start and the week-long Fiesta de las Piraguas, this event is a cultural treasure. Prepare for the cheers, the cider, and the exhilarating sight of a thousand canoes racing down the Sella River—it is an experience that truly captures the heart of Northern Spain.

The Ultimate Guide to the 87th Descenso del Sella 2025: Dates, Race, and the Fiesta de las Piraguas
descenso del sella 2025
descenso del sella 2025

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