What equipment do you need for canyoning? If you're unsure, here’s an article detailing the essential canyoning gear. Discover more about the 5 best canyons for canyoning in the Principality of Asturias:
The 5 Best Canyoning Areas
in Asturias
in Asturias
1. Cares Gorge
This river originates in Posada de Valdeón (Picos de Europa – León side). It stretches 54 kilometres and is formed by several streams merging at 1,600 metres above sea level. Its waters flow through León and Asturias before joining the Deva River.
The canyons along this river include La Molina, formed by the Casaño River, and the Rubó Gorge, created by the Rubó River, a tributary of the Cares.
2. Rubó Gorge (Hoz del Rubó)
The Rubó Gorge is located in Trescares, Asturias. It’s a beginner-friendly canyon but also suitable for experienced adventurers.
It features three sections, with the middle one being the most popular. The estimated time to complete the route is 2-3 hours. This Level I canyon is ideal for families with children.
It includes jumps, rappels, and natural slides, making it a thrilling adventure. One highlight is the 3. El Vallegón Canyon
The El Vallegón canyon lies in the Sella River basin, near the Picos de Europa National Park. It’s located in Amieva, 30 kilometres from Arriondas.
The canyon is split into two sections (upper and lower) and offers rappels, slides, jumps into pools—it has it all!
The descent takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on group size and skill level. The best time to visit is between March and November, subject to water flow.
4. La Molina Canyon
This canyon is situated in Cabrales, formed by the Casaño River, which flows from the Picos de Europa National Park. Its 700-metre route is divided into two sections, featuring narrow passages, caves, aquatic labyrinths, and water jumps.
Suitable for all skill levels (low difficulty), the activity lasts 3-4 hours and is open to children aged 12+.
5. Carangas Canyon
Located in the Ponga River basin (a Sella tributary) within the Ponga Natural Park, this canyon is near the village of Carangas, 35 km from Arriondas.
The upper section takes 1–1.5 hours to descend. The ideal season is March–November.
Carangas Canyon features climbs, rappels, slides, pulley-assisted sections, and jumps. It has two sections:
• Upper section: 4 rappels, medium-low difficulty.
• Lower section: 22 rappels (two 40-metre drops), high difficulty.
