Wavegarden, a leading manufacturer of artificial wave-generating systems, is working on a new project in Madrid, Spain, set to open in 2025. A collaboration between Atlético de Madrid, Stoneweg, and Teras Capital, this will be Europe’s most significant surf park, featuring the continent’s biggest urban beach and world-class surfing waves.
Josema Odriozola, CEO and founder of Wavegarden, says: “This project represents a significant milestone for Wavegarden as it further solidifies our vision of bringing surfing and its lifestyle to landlocked areas. In collaboration with the Terras Capital team, we have dedicated several years to finding the ideal location in Madrid, and we could not be more satisfied than to be part of this exciting Ciudad del Deporte (Sports City) project being developed by Atlético de Madrid.”
Wavegarden brings surfing to everyone
A significant highlight of this ambitious project is the integration of Wavegarden’s technology. With its ground-breaking Wavegarden Cove technology, Wavegarden, a Spanish firm that is pioneering the development of surfing lagoons, has brought urban surfing to cities all over the world and expanded the sport to locations without oceans.
The firm’s installations around the world, as in Melbourne, Australia, have changed how the city’s residents experience surfing and elevated it to the level of the nation’s top surf destinations.
Since surfing was added to the Olympic programme, it has been increasingly popular, both in Spain and around the world. The difficulty has been that the best locations for the sport are frequently located outside of major cities, and in those locations, the ideal conditions are seasonal. The construction of this surf park allows for year-round surfing, enhances the recreational and service options, and offers a place for training national and European teams.
Anyone can ride the waves created by the Wavegarden Cove technology, from novices to experts. More than 20 distinct types of waves are available on Wavegarden’s Wave Menu, with sizes and powers ranging from 0.5m to 2m.
Sustainability
This new surf park in Madrid has a sustainable and ecological design and will create a distinctive surfing destination that brings the beach lifestyle and the sport of surfing to everyone. It is a part of the development of the new Sports City that Atlético de Madrid is promoting on the land surrounding the Cívitas Metropolitano stadium for the enjoyment of all Madrid residents.
The wave-generating system from Wavegarden stands out as being the most efficient on the market, using a maximum of 1 kWh per wave (or $0.10/wave). It is built to recover and reuse some of the energy produced by each wave, minimise energy losses, and improve machinery performance.
The lagoons from Wavegarden were created with the goal of delivering the best waves possible while using the least amount of water and energy possible. As water is lost only through evaporation, the sustainable method also involves reducing water waste. In fact, using recycled water from the sports city for this project is a possibility.
The goal of this endeavour goes beyond developing a simple tourism destination. It is about making a big difference in the neighbourhood by creating a place for recreation, sports, and entertainment while encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. The facility will also include amenities for young children, a skatepark, beach bars, a surf school, a surf shop, and other beach sports activities, making it a comprehensive leisure destination for everyone.
Transforming Madrid
Making this project a milestone in Madrid’s history is a goal shared by Stoneweg, Teras Capital, and Atlético de Madrid. This wave park is a testament to the vision and ambition of these three organisations, thanks to major investment, a dedication to sustainability, and cooperation with Wavegarden. This partnership will transform Madrid’s appearance while also enhancing its reputation as a premier surfing and leisure destination.
Joaquín Castellví, founding partner of Stoneweg and head of European acquisitions, says: “We are thrilled with this project. It represents a great opportunity for Stoneweg to meet new emerging demands.
“Through this collaboration with Atlético de Madrid, we will create an impressive surf park in Madrid, a symbol of sustainability and advanced technology, offering a unique experience for surf lovers and lifestyle enthusiasts globally.”
Miguel de Lucas, the founding partner of Teras Capital, adds: “After more than six years of hard work, we have finally found the perfect partners to make this dream a reality. We are excited to offer Madrid residents and visitors a beach experience without leaving the city.
“We thank Atlético de Madrid for their trust and Wavegarden for their exceptional work that has led us to this point.”
Earlier this year, Wavegarden released a new behind-the-scenes documentary, showcasing its collaboration with some of the world’s top professional surfers.
