Stage 12: Between skyscrapers, ocean views and Brazilian energy in Balneário Camboriú

Michael Poepke | 16. March 2026

After several days crossing industrial cities in Santa Catarina, Stage 12 of the igus:bike worldtour brought a completely different setting. This time, Gabriel and Jenifer headed to Balneário Camboriú, one of the most iconic coastal cities in Brazil — known for its impressive skyline, vibrant beachfront and a unique atmosphere that blends beach life, modern architecture and urban energy.

Many Brazilians jokingly call Balneário Camboriú the “Brazilian Dubai.” It is easy to understand why: the city is home to some of the tallest residential buildings in Latin America, with skyscrapers rising right next to the ocean. Among its residents and frequent visitors, it is also common to find Brazilian football players who own apartments there.

Descending Estrada da Rainha

The first part of the ride was the descent through Estrada da Rainha, a scenic road that connects the elevated areas of the city to the beachfront of Praia Central.

From the top, the view already reveals the striking contrast that defines Balneário Camboriú: the blue ocean, the long stretch of beach, and a continuous line of modern towers reflecting the morning light.

During the descent, Gabriel and Jenifer passed right beside the FG Big Wheel, the giant Ferris wheel that has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. With the igus:bike nearby and the ocean in the background, it was impossible not to stop for a few photos.

Riding along Praia Central

From there, the route continued to the Deck da Ponta da Praia Central, one of the most pleasant spots along the beachfront. The pace of the ride was relaxed — the kind of cycling that allows time to look around, observe people walking along the sand, feel the ocean breeze and take in the scenery.

Following the bike lane that runs along the beach – for around 6,8 kilometers – the igus:bike traveled the entire Praia Central promenade, passing cafés, small kiosks and the wide avenues that characterize the city.

It is interesting how, within just a few hours, the tour can move between completely different worlds: one day inside factories and production lines, and the next riding between the sea and some of the tallest buildings in the country.

A Brazilian break: açaí

There, Gabriel and Jenifer stopped to enjoy something very typical in Brazil: açaí.

Açaí is a deep-purple berry that comes from the Amazon region and has been traditionally consumed in northern Brazil for centuries. Over the years, it has spread throughout the country and become a symbol of Brazilian food culture, especially associated with sports and an active lifestyle.

Usually served cold in a creamy form, açaí is often topped with fruits, granola or honey. For cyclists, it is almost the perfect snack — refreshing, nutritious and packed with energy.

The next destination was the Barra Sul area, one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. This is also where the Molhe da Barra Sul is located — a long jetty that stretches into the ocean and offers open views of the coastline.

Ending the route at Mirante do Encanto

After the break and a few more photos with the bike, the route continued to the final stop of the day: Mirante do Encanto.

From the viewpoint, the landscape once again reveals the essence of Balneário Camboriú: ocean, hills, towering buildings and a city that always seems to be in motion.

That is where Stage 12 came to an end — with the igus:bike resting in front of yet another unforgettable landscape, reinforcing one of the most beautiful ideas behind this journey:

Brazil is a country of contrasts.

Within just a few kilometers, the tour connects industry, nature, modern cities and local traditions, showing how each place adds a new story to the road. And with the next stage already ahead, the bike was ready to keep moving. 🚲🌎

Our riders:

Jenifer Quintino

My name is Jenifer Quintino and I have been working in the Marketing department at igus for 1 year and 11 months, supporting communication initiatives and the execution of internal and external company projects, with a focus on organization and activity follow-up.

I participated in organizing the materials for the igus:bike and I am motivated to take part in this tour across Brazil, making the most of every learning opportunity throughout this journey.

Gabriel Volpato – Marketing analyst

My name is Gabriel, and I have been part of the igus Brazil marketing team since 2020, when I joined the company as an apprentice. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to grow alongside the company and evolve within the marketing area.

Today, I work with graphic design, video editing, and digital marketing initiatives, helping transform ideas into visual experiences that communicate the igus purpose. I enjoy being hands-on, learning new skills, and taking on challenges with enthusiasm, whether behind a camera, at the computer, or on the road.

Accompanying the igus Bike Tour throughout its entire journey is a unique opportunity for me to tell real stories, capture meaningful moments, and showcase how our brand connects with people, places, and innovation.

I am truly excited to be part of this experience and to help ensure that every stage of the tour becomes a memorable chapter in our story.

Map of this stage: