In one sentence: here is everything you need to know to go down the Sella in 2026: when the season opens, the prices, the key dates, the best months and how to book. A complete, up-to-date guide, from Arriondas, so you can plan your descent with no doubts.
Every year, thousands of people set their sights on the same plan: paddling down Asturias's most famous river by canoe. If 2026 is your year, this is your go-to guide. We keep it up to date with the prices, the dates and everything that changes from one season to the next, so you do not miss a thing.
2026 season: when you can go down the Sella
The Sella descent season runs, roughly, from April to October. It is not just an August plan: every stretch of the calendar has its own charm.
- Spring (April-June): the valley green, a good flow and few people. Ideal for anyone after peace and quiet.
- Summer (July-August): the high season, with sunshine, atmosphere and the river at its liveliest. Best to book ahead.
- Autumn (September-October): golden light, cooler water and the river almost to yourself. The favourite season of many regulars.
In every case, the river stays open until 18:00 by rule of the Confederación Hidrográfica del Cantábrico, and arrival at our base is between 10:30 and 12:30.
Sella descent prices in 2026
The 2026 prices stay clear and free of surprises, the same throughout the whole season:
- 35 € per adult and 25 € per child aged 5 to 12.
- Pets free, with their canine life jacket included.
- No seasonal surcharges: the same price in August as in May.
- All included: canoe with a backrest as standard, paddle, life jacket, a mini class with a qualified monitor, the return transfer, car park, changing rooms with hot showers and lockers.
You have the full breakdown and both routes in prices and what is included. If you are after the most comfortable option, take a look at the Premium Booking.
Key date: the International Sella Descent 2026
The most famous event of the year is the Fiesta de Las Piraguas (International Sella Descent), declared of International Tourist Interest. In 2026 it takes place on Saturday 8 August.
An honest note: that day the river closes for the race and we do not run the tourist activity, although the atmosphere in Arriondas and Ribadesella is spectacular. Any other day of the season you can go down with us. Everything about the event in the International Sella Descent.
The best months of 2026 to come
Because every month has its own personality, we have written a guide for each one. Choose according to what you are after:
- Summer in general: the Sella descent in summer, with everything you need to know about the high season.
- July: the descent in July, warmth and atmosphere without the August peak.
- August: the descent in August, the liveliest month of the year.
- September: the descent in September, peace and quiet and golden light.
And if you are torn between dates, we compare it all in the best time to go down the Sella.
Plan your day: 2026 timings
Arrival is flexible between 10:30 and 12:30, and from there the day is yours. To make the most of it:
- If you are wondering what time to set off depending on the route (Mini or Full), that guide breaks it down for you.
- And if you want to fine-tune the best time of day according to flow, temperature and how busy it is, that too.
- How long does it last? You have it in how long the descent takes and the map in route and map.
How to book your Sella descent 2026
Booking for 2026 is simple and flexible:
- By web (with a real-time calendar), WhatsApp, phone or email. Not at the desk unannounced.
- In July and August, better a few days ahead; the rest of the season, you can often go the same day if there is space. There is no need to book months in advance.
- Choose your route: Mini (7 km, ~2h) or Full (14.5 km, ~4h), both at the same price.
- If you are coming from out of town, we help you in how to get to Arriondas.
We are the Arriondas team who welcome you at the river; you can get to know us in about us and we are backed by 147 real reviews (4.5★).
2026 is a perfect year to go down the Sella. You already know when, how much and how: all that is left is to choose your day. Book your Sella descent 2026 here and we will see you on the water.
What you ask us most
- When does the Sella descent season start and finish in 2026?
The Sella descent season runs roughly from April to October, peaking in July and August. Outside those months (spring and September-October) you can still go down, with fewer people and the same prices. The river stays open until 18:00 by rule of the Confederación Hidrográfica del Cantábrico. Check the live calendar.
- How much does the Sella descent cost in 2026?
The 2026 prices are 35 € for adults and 25 € for children aged 5 to 12, with pets free. No seasonal surcharges. It includes the canoe, paddle, life jacket, a mini class with a qualified monitor, the return transfer, car park, changing rooms and lockers. Everything in detail in prices and what is included.
- When is the International Sella Descent 2026?
The Fiesta de Las Piraguas (International Sella Descent) 2026 takes place on Saturday 8 August. That day the river closes for the race and we do not run the tourist activity, but any other day of the season we do. We tell you all about it in the International Sella Descent.
- Which is the best month for the Sella descent in 2026?
It depends on what you are after: spring (May-June) and September for peace and quiet, July and August for atmosphere and warmth. All at the same price. We compare them in the best time to go down the Sella.
- How do I book the Sella descent for 2026?
By web (real-time calendar), WhatsApp, phone or email. In July and August it is worth booking a few days ahead; the rest of the season you can often go the same day if there is space. There is no need to book months in advance.
