Located in the eastern part of the northern Spanish region of Asturias, the small town of Arriondas is a charming and historic destination that is known for its picturesque natural surroundings and unique cultural offerings. Arriondas is in the county of Parres and is the capital of this country ‘concejo’ of rolling hills and rivers. It is nestled in the foothills of the Picos de Europa mountain range, and is situated along the Sella River and is home to a vibrant community of locals who take pride in their region’s rich heritage and traditions.
The town’s name, Arriondas, is derived from the Asturian word “riondas,” which means “river meanders.” This name is fitting, as the town is situated in a picturesque location along the Sella River, which is a popular spot for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. In fact, the Sella River is famous for its annual canoe race, the Descenso Internacional del Sella, which attracts thousands of participants and spectators each year.
Beyond its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, Arriondas is also home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural attractions that give visitors a glimpse into the town’s fascinating past. One of the most prominent of these landmarks is the Palace of Valdés-Bazán, which dates back to the 17th century and features a stunning Baroque façade that is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
A view of Arriondas with the hills behind
Another notable attraction in Arriondas is the Parish Church of Santa Cruz, which was built in the 18th century and features an impressive stone exterior and intricate interior carvings. This church is a testament to the town’s deep religious roots and is still an active place of worship for the local community.
For those interested in learning more about the region’s history and culture, the town also boasts several museums and cultural centers. One of the most popular of these is the Asturian Museum of Picos de Europa, which showcases the natural and cultural heritage of the region through interactive exhibits and educational programs. The Museum of the Fisherman is also a must-see for those interested in the area’s fishing traditions and includes displays on the history of fishing in the Sella River.
In addition to its cultural and historic attractions, Arriondas is also home to a vibrant culinary scene that is sure to delight foodies of all stripes. The town is famous for its hearty and flavorful Asturian cuisine, which includes dishes like fabada (a hearty bean stew), cachopo (a breaded and fried meat dish), and sidra (a crisp, refreshing apple cider). Many of the local restaurants and bars offer these dishes alongside a range of other regional specialties, making Arriondas a great destination for food lovers.
Of course, no visit to Arriondas would be complete without exploring the surrounding natural beauty of the area. The town is situated in the heart of the Picos de Europa mountain range, which is known for its rugged peaks, verdant forests, and stunning views. Visitors can explore the area through a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to birdwatching and nature photography.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Arriondas is the aforementioned Descenso Internacional del Sella, which takes place every August and draws participants and spectators from around the world. During this annual canoe race, competitors paddle down the Sella River in colorful kayaks and canoes, racing to the finish line in a festive and adrenaline-fueled atmosphere. But for anyone else the whole year round there’s a dedicated
El descenso del Sella – the annual canoe race in Arriondas
And following the canoe race is a huge and very popular music festival Aquasella which simply adds to the summer vibe.
For anyone wanting to live close to Arriondas it’s useful to know that on a more prosaic level there is a wide range of services in the town, from the local town hall that covers the region of Parres to a large hospital as well as schools for all ages and shops, bars, restaurants as well as a huge sports centre. Overall, for anyone living close by it has all the essential services that one would want as well as some delicious non-essentials like the Michelin starred restaurant El Corral de Indianu
The town of Arriondas is a hidden gem in the heart of Asturias that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s rich heritage, immersing yourself in its vibrant culinary scene, or simply soaking up the stunning views of the Picos de Europa, Arriondas has something to offer everyone.
Parres, which is the county that surrounds Arriondas is a popular place to live and we have various properties for sale in this area:
Stone-built, semi-detached, fully renovated house with 1850m of land…
20 hectare farm close to Arriondas
High-tech eco home with 25000m2 of land
You can check out the location of Arriondas on the map below…
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