Visiting Arriondas means discovering a special part of Asturias, ideal for lovers of nature and adventure activities. It is also the capital of the municipality of Parres, which in turn belongs to the larger district of Cangas de Onís.
As home to more than half of the total inhabitants of the municipality, it is one of the liveliest villages in the area.
Arriondas is an ideal place to take part in one of the most famous activities in the area: the International Descent of the Sella, which is a major event in the watersports calendar. It takes advantage of the water of the river Sella that flows through the town.
This event brings together thousands of adventurers who travel downstream from different points on the river by canoe or kayak. If you want to do it, it lasts between 2 and 5 hours, depending on the effort you put into it and it usually takes place during the summer. Afterwards, you can head to one of the holiday houses near the River Sella to rest and recuperate!
What to see in and around Arriondas
One of the main tourist attractions is the chapel and church of San Martín, located in the highest part of the village. The views from the chapel, set a little higher than the church, are especially impressive.
The heart of this village is the Parque de la Concordia, located between the two rivers that flow through the area: the Sella and the Piloña. It is a large green space perfect for passing the time and having a picnic in one of the designated areas.
Its old quarter invites you to stroll along the picturesque Argüelles street, full of shops and businesses and lined with colonial houses, such as Villa Juanita. These stand in spectacular contrast to the other buildings, creating a panorama that stays with you for years.
There is another charming park, the Llera, which connects the town centre to the Plaza de Venancio Pando. To complete a circular route, the best thing to do is to enjoy the views from the Puente de las Piraguas (Canoe Bridge), which is the starting point for the Descent of the Sella.
In the surrounding area you will find a large number of beautiful villages. Some of the most charming, and easily accessible from Arriondas are Cangas de Onís, Ribadesella and Lastres.
How best to get here? If you’re coming by car, everything is well signposted from the main roads, but there are also public transport options.
This town has a lot to offer and many sights to see and there’s a wide range of accommodation options to match. If you're travelling in high season, you'll find cabins, rural hotels and airbnb-type stays that are perfect for visitors; and if you're travelling in low season, you're sure to find some of the best holiday cottages in Asturias at discount prices.
Are you ready for your trip to Arriondas?