Arriondas is a lively hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its location in Asturias makes it an ideal base for exploring rugged landscapes, lush rivers, and historic sites. Among the many activities available, the Canoe Descenso del Sella stands out as a classic and accessible experience for families and adventure-seekers alike. For those craving more adrenaline, the Canyoning Adventure offers four levels of challenge in the stunning Picos de Europa. And if you prefer a blend of culture and scenery, the Covadonga Lakes Guided Tour takes you into the heart of Asturias’ legendary mountains.
We particularly enjoy the Arriondas: Descenso del Sella en Canoa because it combines physical activity with spectacular scenery in a way that’s suitable for all ages. It’s a perfect introduction to Asturias’ waterways and wildlife, with a friendly, confidence-boosting briefing included. To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of these top-rated experiences.
1. Arriondas: Descenso del Sella en Canoa
At number 1 on our list is the Arriondas: Descenso del Sella en Canoa. This 7-hour water adventure takes you down the famous Sella River, one of the most iconic activities in Asturias. The tour offers a peaceful yet exhilarating glide through the river’s calm waters, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to connect with nature.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of wildlife spotting and the gentle pace that allows you to soak in the lush surroundings. Before setting off, you’ll receive a thorough instructional briefing ensuring you feel confident paddling. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the safety measures, with a 4.9/5 rating based on 52 reviews. Whether you’re paddling for the first time or a seasoned kayaker, this tour offers a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice if you want a scenic, family-friendly activity that’s easy to participate in but still memorable.
2. Asturias: Canyoning Adventure with 4 Levels to Choose From
For thrill-seekers, the Canyoning Adventure offers four different challenge levels, making it accessible for beginners to advanced adventurers. Priced at just $57 per person, this full-day activity in the Picos de Europa takes you through narrow ravines, cascading waterfalls, and natural slides.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of options: whether you want a gentle introduction to canyoning with family-friendly routes or a more challenging descent with technical sections, there’s a route for you. Guides are praised for their friendly, personal attention and expertise, making sure everyone stays safe without losing the fun. The equipment is provided, and the neoprene gear ensures you stay warm even on cloudy days.
A recent review says, “It’s one of the best experiences — very fun and safe.” This tour is ideal if you want to combine adventure with nature and don’t mind getting a little wet.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a customizable adrenaline rush in Asturias’ stunning mountain scenery.
3. Arriondas: Covadonga Lakes Guided Tour
The Covadonga Lakes Guided Tour offers a scenic 4.5-hour journey into the mountains to see the legendary Lakes of Covadonga. This tour includes a visit to the Sanctuary of Covadonga, a site shrouded in legends and history, and is perfect for travelers interested in both natural beauty and cultural stories.
Led by an experienced guide, you’ll learn about the origin of the sanctuary and the area’s significance in Asturian identity. The lakes themselves are striking, with emerald waters framed by towering peaks. The guide’s careful driving, even through foggy weather, has earned praise, and the tour maintains a 4.6/5 rating from 11 reviews.
This activity suits visitors who want a combination of sightseeing and cultural insight without a full day commitment. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate a more relaxed pace and guided commentary.
Bottom Line: A scenic, educational trip ideal for history buffs and nature lovers who want to explore Asturias’ legendary landscapes.
4. Descent of the Sella River in a Canoe
Rounding out our list is the Descent of the Sella River in a Canoe, a smaller group experience that takes you on a 15 km journey from Arriondas to Llovio. This is a classic water activity that’s more relaxed than the full-day paddle, with options for 1, 2, or 3-seater canoes.
The reviews are enthusiastic, noting the friendly staff and the clear guidance on how to use the canoes. Many travelers enjoy the peaceful environment, especially when paddling in a single canoe, which offers a more personal experience. The activity is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, and the scenery along the river is a highlight. One reviewer mentions, “It was a very good day, and we’ll try the single canoe next time.”
While some found it a bit crowded at times, most agree it’s a recommendable activity for enjoying Asturias’ natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a manageable, scenic canoeing experience and the chance to enjoy nature without a full-day commitment.
How to Choose
If you’re trying to decide between these options, think about your interests and fitness level. For a laid-back introduction to Asturias’ waterways, the Descenso del Sella en Canoa offers a gentle, scenic paddle. If adventure is more your style, the Canyoning Adventure provides levels suited for everyone, from families to seasoned climbers. For a mix of nature and cultural insights, the Covadonga Lakes Guided Tour is perfect.
Booking early is always a good idea, especially in peak season. Consider the weather — water activities like canoeing or canyoning are best on dry days, while the guided lakes tour can handle some fog or rain. Check availability and reviews to match your desired experience and comfort level.
Final Thoughts
Arriondas truly offers a range of outdoor activities that suit different tastes and energy levels. Whether you want to relax on a canoe, challenge yourself with canyoning, or explore Asturias’ legendary lakes, the options here are top-notch. The Arriondas: Descenso del Sella en Canoa is a classic for a reason — it’s accessible and memorable. Meanwhile, the canyoning trip adds a dose of adrenaline, and the Covadonga Lakes tour combines natural beauty with cultural richness.
For the best experience, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. All of these tours are well-reviewed, so booking in advance will help ensure you get your preferred date and activity. Asturias’s landscapes await, so don’t wait — start planning your adventure today!