Written by the students: Emanuel, Christian, Nerea, Pelayo, Anaís, Mauro, Daniela, Carlos, & Diego G.S. – IES Montevil from Spain
The Sella River Descent, which runs from Arriondas to Llovió, is one of the most emblematic events in Asturias. Popularly known as the “Fiesta de las Piraguas”, it has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest and is held every year on the first Saturday of August, provided that it does not fall on the 1st or 2nd. Although the main event is the official canoeing competition, the celebration lasts throughout the entire weekend and attracts thousands of visitors. Participation is open and very popular: federated athletes with an official licence compete first, followed by tourists, who complete the route for fun while enjoying the festive atmosphere and the spectacular scenery of the Sella River.
Not far from this area rise the Picos de Europa, a mountain range about 20 km long that forms part of the Cantabrian Mountains and extends across Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León. Its highest peak is Torre de Cerredo, standing at 2,650 metres. This massif is one of the great natural symbols of northern Spain, known for its deep gorges, high mountain meadows, and hiking routes. Its proximity to the coast creates striking landscape contrasts, making it an essential destination for nature lovers.
Within the Picos de Europa, Covadonga stands out as perhaps the most famous village in the area. It belongs to the municipality of Cangas de Onís and is a place rich in history and symbolism for Asturias. In the mountains above the sanctuary lie the Lakes of Covadonga, Enol and Ercina, two glacial lakes that form one of the most visited landscapes in the national park. Surrounded by pastures and peaks, they are a reference point for hikers and travellers seeking to experience the Asturian highlands.
Asturias’s natural heritage is also reflected in its native animal breeds. The Asturcón, or Asturian pony, is a small and robust horse that has inhabited the mountainous regions of the Cantabrian Mountains and the Pyrenees since ancient times. It is characterised by its small size, abundant mane, muscular chest, and very resistant hooves, with an average height of between 1.30 and 1.47 metres. The Asturceltic pig is another traditional breed from Asturias, closely linked to rural life. With white, black, or spotted colouring and long, drooping ears, it typically weighs between 205 and 255 kilograms. Its numbers declined drastically with the introduction of more commercially profitable breeds, but conservation efforts are helping it recover.
