Asturias is a region that truly offers a mix of outdoor activity, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor. Whether you’re paddling along peaceful rivers, tackling a canyon, or learning about local cider culture, Asturias’s diverse experiences are hard to beat. Among these options, the Descent of the River Sella stands out for its blend of adventure and accessibility, making it a favorite for families and friends alike. We also love the Picos de Europa canoe trip for its stunning environment and small group setting, and the cider mill tour if you’re interested in local traditions. These experiences showcase the region’s natural charm and vibrant local culture.
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll appreciate the variety: from relaxed water excursions to more adventurous river descents and cultural tastings. The list below highlights some of the best tours for different interests and skill levels, with practical details to help you choose the perfect match.
1. Cangas de Onís (Las Rozas): Descent of the River Sella
Starting from Las Rozas in Cangas de Onís, this canoe adventure is designed for all levels and offers a flexible experience—choose your own distance for a personalized paddle. The trip takes you along a less crowded stretch of the Sella River, beginning with a pickup service that makes logistics simple. The tour lasts about a full day, and at just $35 per person, it offers excellent value.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on customization — you pick your preferred distance, making it suitable for families with young children or groups that want a leisurely paddle. The gentle river current and tranquil surroundings create a relaxing atmosphere. The tour also includes transportation back to Las Rozas, so no need to worry about logistics. Reviewers give it a perfect 5/5, praising the peaceful start and friendly staff. It’s perfect if you want an easy, scenic paddle with the option to extend or shorten your experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, family-friendly canoe trip with a peaceful setting and great value—ideal for first-timers or relaxed paddlers.
2. Arriondas: Canoeing Descent on the Sella River
For those wanting a more structured, half-day adventure, this canoe descent in Arriondas is a top pick. With a typical duration of around 4 hours, it offers an exciting yet gentle paddling experience. The tour includes an instructional briefing—perfect if you’re new to canoeing—and takes you from C. San Antonio, 2, through the calm waters of the Sella River with opportunities to spot local wildlife.
This tour is praised for its relaxed pace and scenic surroundings, with a chance to see local sights from the water. After paddling, you’ll hop on a bus back to the start point, making for a smooth experience. The reviews highlight its suitability for families and friends seeking a peaceful nature escape. Plus, the beautiful riverfront bars along the route add to the laid-back vibe.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a half-day, family-friendly water adventure with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.
3. Picos de Europa: Descent of the Cares River by canoe, with guide
At number 3 on our list, this canoe trip near the Picos de Europa combines stunning mountain scenery with a manageable paddle. The trip lasts around 4 hours and is suitable for medium-level paddlers. It takes place in a less saturated environment, with small groups of fewer than 20 people, ensuring a more personal experience.
Led by qualified local guides, you’ll start at DiverRiver, where they provide a comprehensive safety briefing. The waters are generally calm, but the environment is dramatic, with views of the mountains and lush landscapes. The tour includes a van transfer to and from the starting point, making logistics straightforward. Guests rave about the professional guides and the peaceful, uncrowded waters, emphasizing that the experience is both exciting and safe.
This outing appeals to travelers who want a small-group adventure with knowledgeable guides in a spectacular setting. Its value lies in the quality of the guide and the stunning environment—a perfect choice for those who want an active day in nature without the crowds.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups seeking a guided, scenic canoe trip in the iconic Picos de Europa region.
4. Sidra Vda. de Angelón: Guided visit to a cider mill with tasting
For a cultural experience, this guided cider mill visit offers a fascinating look at Asturias’s famous cider tradition. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes a walkthrough of the cider-making process, along with a tasting of different varieties of cider paired with local snacks.
The highlight is the opportunity to learn about cider culture, which is deeply embedded in Asturian life. The guide shares stories about the history and methods, making it more than just a tasting. Visitors describe it as an “echt fantastisch” experience, noting the variety of ciders they get to sample and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s an ideal stop for those interested in local food traditions or seeking a relaxed, informational experience.
This experience provides authentic insight into Asturian culture, perfect for travelers who enjoy culinary adventures and want to understand local customs beyond sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A perfect cultural complement to outdoor activities, offering insight into Asturias’s renowned cider-making traditions.
How to Choose Your Asturias Tour
Picking the right experience depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you want a relaxed, customizable paddle, the Cangas de Onís canoe trip is ideal. For a structured half-day adventure, the Arriondas descent offers a good mix of scenery and mild activity. If mountain scenery and smaller groups attract you, the Picos de Europa canoe provides a more intimate experience. Finally, for cultural interests, the cider mill tour is a charming and educational break from the outdoor pursuits.
Consider your budget, time availability, and whether you prefer water-based adventure or culture. Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Asturias offers a rich variety of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and activity levels. For a relaxed paddle with picturesque scenery, the Cangas de Onís canoe trip hits the mark. If you’re after a more structured river descent with wildlife and local sights, the Arriondas experience is perfect. Those seeking an adventurous small-group outing will love the Picos de Europa canoe with its breathtaking environment. And for a taste of local culture, the cider mill visit provides authentic insight into Asturian traditions.
No matter your choice, booking ahead is recommended—Asturias’s natural beauty and cultural treasures tend to attract eager travelers. These tours offer a genuine slice of Asturias and can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.