Spanish sporting event to attract tourists

Holidaymakers looking for an authentic Spanish experience this summer may want to witness an event which dates back to the 1930s.

The Fiesta de las Piraguas is a canoe festival, which the Instituto de Turismo de Espana describes as "full of music and colour".

On the first Saturday of August each year, Asturias, which is on the northern Spanish coastline, attracts around 1,000 canoeists as they battle it out to paddle down the 20-kilometre Sella River course in the fastest time.

The competitors begin in the village of Arriondas and travel down the river to Ribadesella, being cheered on by spectators on the banks.

"There is food, cider, song, dance… [and] when night comes the fun continues in Ribadesella until the early hours, with its terrace bars and open-air parties," explains the Spanish tourist board.

IdealSpain.com says that Asturias has a "wealth of landscape" to offer holidaymakers, from the beaches of its coastline, to quaint villages and top fishing facilities.

There is so much on offer for those looking for a taste of Spain. Read our guide to France for more information.