Like every year, the song by The Refrescos plays again in Madrid. Although his famous refrain of “There is no beach here… go, go” could soon sound differently. Because the capital is preparing to build the largest wave park in Europe on a four-hectare space. Through the collaboration between Atlético de Madrid, Stoneweg and Teras Capital, its promoters anticipate that the city will become a world-class surfing destination, equipped with an artificial beach and a wave park.
The incorporation of Wavegarden technology in this ambitious project is a key element. Wavegarden, a San Sebastian company that is a leader in the creation of surf lagoons, is recognized for its revolutionary technology that has brought urban surfing to cities around the world.
Its facilities in Melbourne, they point out after a conversation with La Vanguardia, have transformed the way in which the city experiences surfing, making urban surfing “as loved” by the public as surfing in the best spots in Australia.
The popularity of surfing and its exponential growth are a reality in Spain and throughout the world. The challenge so far has been that the places to practice this sport are far from the cities and its availability is seasonal. With the creation of wave parks, the possibility of surfing throughout the year opens up, enriching the offer of leisure and services.
This new wave park in Madrid, which is part of the development of the new City of Sports promoted by Atlético de Madrid on the land surrounding the Cívitas Metropolitano stadium for the enjoyment of all Madrid residents, will take this surfing experience “to a new level in the city”, indicate the promoters. With a sustainable and eco-friendly design, the park will use Wavegarden’s cutting-edge technology to produce waves up to 2 meters high, with more than 20 different types to suit all levels of surfers.
They ensure that Wavegarden’s wave generation system stands out for being “the most efficient on the market”, with a maximum consumption of 1 kWh per wave (€0.10/wave). It is designed to minimize energy losses, maximize the performance of the machinery and, in addition, recover and reuse part of the energy generated in each wave.
Wavegarden lagoons are designed to offer the best quality, quantity and variety of waves, with low energy and water consumption. In addition, this sustainable approach includes the reduction of water waste, since it is only lost through evaporation. In fact, for this project the possibility of recycling the water from the sports city is contemplated.
The vision of this project goes beyond creating a simple tourist attraction. It is about generating a significant impact in the local community, offering a space for sports, fun and leisure, and promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. In addition, the facility will be equipped with a surf school and shop, a skatepark, beach bars, areas for the little ones and other beach sports activities on the sand, making this place a complete leisure destination for everyone.
Stoneweg and Teras Capital, together with Atlético de Madrid, are dedicated to making this project “a milestone in the history of Madrid.” With significant investment, a commitment to sustainability and collaboration with Wavegarden, this wave park is a testament to their vision and ambition. This alliance will not only transform the landscape of Madrid, but will also raise the profile of the city as a leading destination in the world of surfing and leisure.” Joaquín Castellví, founding partner of Stoneweg and head of acquisitions in Europe, explained that they are “delighted with this project. It represents a great opportunity for Stoneweg to meet new emerging demands. Through this collaboration with Atlético de Madrid, we are going to create an impressive park of waves in Madrid, which will be an emblem of sustainability and advanced technology, offering a unique experience for lovers of surfing and lifestyle at a global level”.
Miguel de Lucas, founding partner of Teras Capital, added that “after more than six years of hard work, we have finally found the perfect partners to make this dream come true. We are excited to be able to offer Madrileños and visitors a beach experience without leave the city. We thank Atlético de Madrid and Stoneweg for their trust and Wavegarden for the exceptional work that has brought us to this point.”
For his part, Josema Odriozola, CEO and founder of Wavegarden, highlighted that “this project represents a great milestone for Wavegarden, since it once again consolidates our vision of bringing surfing and its lifestyle closer to those places that have no sea. Together With the Teras Capital team, we have been looking for the perfect location in Madrid for several years and we could not be more satisfied to be part of this exciting project of the City of Sports developed by Atlético de Madrid”.
