Stage 4: From Industrial Heritage to Natural Beauty in Limburg
Maria Siopi | 17. September 2025
On the fourth day of our 60th-anniversary journey, the igus Bike took us to the Limburg region of Belgium, where history, sports, and nature merge in inspiring ways. Our route led us through Genk and Maasmechelen, two destinations that perfectly reflect the transformation of Belgium’s industrial past into vibrant cultural and recreational experiences.
We started the day at C-mine in Genk, a creative hotspot built on the grounds of a former coal mine. Today, this site celebrates both the region’s mining heritage and its modern artistic spirit. Cycling through the industrial architecture and cultural spaces reminded us of how places can evolve while still honoring their roots—much like Igus’ own journey of innovation built on strong foundations.
Right after C-mine, we visited the stadium of KRC Genk, home to one of Belgium’s most successful football clubs. The Cegeka Arena is not only a symbol of sporting passion but also of community pride, bringing together fans from across Limburg. Standing in front of the stadium, we felt the energy and excitement that football brings to the region.
From there, we continued toward Terhills, a stunning natural domain located on the former Eisden coal mine site. This area combines nature, recreation, and history, offering breathtaking landscapes where water and greenery dominate the scene.
One of the absolute highlights of the day was experiencing “Fietsen tussen de Mijnterrils”, a unique floating cycling bridge of 380 meters in Lanklaar (Dilsen-Stokkem). Stretching across a gravel lake in the Terhills area and connecting two mine slag heaps, this extraordinary route lies between cycling nodes 565 and 502. Riding over the water with the former mine terraces rising on both sides was a spectacular and unforgettable moment of the tour.
We concluded our day at the Hotel Terhills, a beautiful location nestled in the heart of the natural domain. Surrounded by both history and modern elegance, it offered the perfect place to reflect on a day filled with contrasts: from coal mines to creative hubs, from football arenas to stunning nature.
Day 4 of the Igus Bike Tour showed us how transformation and innovation can create new life in old places—a theme that resonates strongly with Igus as we celebrate 60 years of rethinking motion and technology. Tomorrow, our journey continues with even more remarkable stories to discover.
Our riders:
Tim Küsters
Tim joined igus 7 months ago as Marketing Manager. He immediately felt at home in the supportive team and enjoys the freedom to further develop marketing in Belgium. The challenges that come with it give him extra motivation. During the bike tour, Tim will be on his bike every single day: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Hanne Geelen
Hanne has been part of igus for 16 years and now works as Country Manager. Her role takes her to very different environments: from fully suited cleanrooms to dusty or oily factories. That variety, combined with helping customers find lasting solutions, gives her great satisfaction. She’s especially motivated by the igus mission of zero lubrication and the company’s strong focus on sustainability and the circular economy.
Wim Laporte
Wim has been a cornerstone at igus for 15 years. As Product Manager drylin & Technical Sales Consultant, he thrives on working closely with customers to find the right solutions and enjoys the constant innovation within the product range.
Map of the stage
