Stage 1: The adventure kicks off in Vilanova i la Geltrú

Genoveva de Ros | 19. May 2025

Ready… steady… ride! At 10:30 a.m., Matthias Meier, Country Manager of igus Spain, kicked off the igus:bike tour through Spain. The start took place in Vilanova i la Geltrú, at the site where the Spanish igus new facilities will be located very soon, as they are expected to be ready before the end of the year.

There was a clear excitment to start, and soon the first rider, Adrián Hernández, took the handover and set off to begin. Sunshine, some clouds and a usual spring temperature accompanied him ☀️.

We could not miss the opportunity to visit one of our customers in the area, Durmi. With more than 50 years of expertise, the company specializes in manufacturing solar protection systems for buildings and outdoor spaces, such as pergolas and louvres. Innovation and sustainability are at the core of their values — principles we also stand by (and so does our igus:bike!).

The first stop in the city was the Ribes Roges Park — a green oasis where you can go for a walk, exercise, or simply relax. Here, plenty of curious passers-by stopped to ask about the bike, amazed that such a sleek design was made from recycled plastic.

We continued until we reached Espai Far, a museum facility that highlights Vilanova’s rich maritime heritage. Have you ever wondered what a sailor’s daily life is like?

Here, you can find historical objects and maritime curiosities, such as the century-old lifeboat Víctor Rojas, which is unsinkable, as well as the beautiful Sant Cristòfol Lighthouse — one of the twenty lighthouses still in operation along the Catalan coast.

Then it was time to enjoy the view of the sea and its breeze, passing by the beautiful seafront promenade of the city to get to the Plaça de la Vila, where the town hall is located and where the mayor was waiting for us.

After the warm welcome at the town hall, we decided to go to the Mercat del Centre, a place full of different smells and colors. You know what they say: if you really want to get to know a city, follow the locals! Though maybe it was not the best idea… everything looked amazing, and we walked out starving!

Another place we could not miss was the Biblioteca Museu Víctor Balaguer, one of the most ancient and unique museums in Catalonia. With a vibrant mix of paintings, sculptures and interactive activities, this museum takes you on a trip through different times and cultures — no time machine needed.

The last stop before leaving the city was the Railway Museum of Catalonia, another cultural space that showcases a spectacular collection of historical vehicles from the railway sector. But that’s not all — you can even hop aboard some of the trains and pretend you are the train driver! (Maybe you never dreamed of being a train driver, but the experience is definitely worth it, we promise!)

We said goodbye to Vilanova i la Geltrú (and to Adrián Hernández) as we set off along the beatiful coastal (and winding) road with our second rider: Jorge Castán. While enjoying spectacular sea views, we passed through Sitges — known for its film festival and vibrant carnivals — and the small, magical Garraf coast, with its beach dotted with old fishermen’s huts.

It seemed the curves are finally coming to an end (thankfully it’s over!!), and we spotted a wide and endless beach with mountains views: we’ve arrived in Castelldefels.

We continued along the seafront promenade until we reach the Plaza de las Palmeras, a good place to finish this first stage with a well-deserved cool drink in one of the beach bars. Salud! 😉

Our riders:

Adrián Hernández

“I’ve been working at igus since 2017 in the bearing Sales Department. I was born in Barcelona in 1995, but I’m now living in Vilanova, close to the new future igus’ Spain Factory. I first discovered Vilanova when I was studying at university here, and we decided to move back four years ago.

I really like sports in general, and one of my favorites is mountain biking. I‘m a motorsport lover—both cars and motorbikes! One of my favorite hobbies is going to the track with my motorbike and enjoying the ride.”

Jorge Castán

“My name is Jorge and I’m in the Accounting Department at igus Spain. I’ve been working here for the last 17 years. I’m from Barcelona, and when it comes to my hobbies, I’d say that travelling is my favorite. I also enjoy playing some sports.”

Map of the tour