El Sella river is one of the most important in Asturias and it is known because the famous Descent of the Sella in canoes takes place there, a competition that turns into a great party every year. This river crosses municipalities that are of great tourist interest such as Ribadesella or Cangas de Onís, hence the river Sella has become an important tourist spot.
We are going to see some places of interest that can be seen and that are related to the passage of the river Sella. Following its course can be a great travel experience to discover the most authentic Asturias and some of the best-known places in this community.
Characteristics of the river Sella
The Sella River is located in the northern part of Spain and flows into the Cantabrian Sea. It passes through the communities of Castilla y León and Asturias. It is a river that born in the well-known Picos de Europa and reaches the Cantabrian Sea in Ribadesella. It travels about 70 kilometers passing through the towns of Oseja de Sajambre, Ponga, Amieva, Parres, Cangas de Onís and Ribadesella. In this river we can find a rich ecosystem with trout, salmon or lampreys.
Picos de Europa
One of the places near which the Sella is born and that are a must-see near this river are the Picos de Europa. The natural landscapes and the many hiking trails of this place make it an unforgettable point. On this visit we will be able to see well-known Basilica of Covadonga, located on top of a hill overlooking the valley. It is quite recent, in a neo-Romanesque style, it was inaugurated in the XNUMXth century. Another important place is the Holy Cave where apparently the Virgin Mary appeared to Don Pelayo. The Prince's Gardens are located near the sanctuary and are perfect for walks. In addition, you have to enjoy the vision of the great lakes of Covadonga and the routes that are around them to go from one to another.
Amieva
In the Amieva area we find the highest slopes in all of Asturias. If there is something we can do in this area, it is to delight ourselves with the more rural part and with the villages that keep a great authenticity avoiding mass tourism. Part of its territory is still in the Picos de Europa. In this place you can do very interesting hiking routes such as the Camín de la Reina or the Senda de la Jocica. A place that is highly recommended is the small town of Pen, which preserves the traditional architecture typical of Asturias, such as the Peri house, a XNUMXth century mansion or the famous Asturian bread baskets.
Parres
This is the town from which the canoes in the great Descent of the Sella, making it a designated point on the river. It is an area that perfectly mixes the river and the mountains. Although it may seem like a small and quiet place, it hides great gems such as two Michelin Star restaurants. El Picu Pienzu in the Sierra del Sueve is its highest area and something not to be missed is the view of El Fitu.
Cangas de Onis
This is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown if we are talking about the passage of the Sella River. One of the must-sees is Cangas de Onís. The Roman Bridge that was built during the reign of Alfonso XI is one of the key points to see in Cangas de Onís. In fact, the image of this bridge is one of the most used to characterize the tourist guides of Asturias. The hanging cross is a copy of the Victory Cross from the XNUMXth century which commemorates the Battle of Covadonga. In fact, only the foundations of the bridge are already Roman, but it is a bridge that dates back to the XNUMXth century.
Already in the center of the town you will see the statue of Don Pelayo or the well-known church of the Assumption. It was an old medieval temple that over time underwent several reforms. It stands out for its large bell tower with several sections of bells, something unusual in typical churches, which is why it is such a recognizable temple.
Ribadesella
The river Sella flows into Ribadesella, a coastal town that can also be a tourist area of interest. The town of Ribadesella has a beautiful port that has been converted into a tourist and commercial area. You have to go for it Paseo de la Grúa where we will find the murals known as Mingote Panels. The old town of Ribadesella is another of its great attractions. We can see the parish church of Santa María Magdalena and stroll through the medieval streets. We must not forget to visit the Cueva del Tito Bustillo very close, a sanctuary of Paleolithic art in Europe.