Before starting the route, at the BIKING premises itself, we'll give a short introduction using maps and key aspects of the tradition and culture of both the city of Vigo and Galicia.
We'll then give an explanation of how the electric bike works, and we'll have a few minutes to practice and get comfortable with it.
We'll start the route in the Rosalía de Castro neighborhood. From there, we'll head to the marina along the bike lane and continue to the A Laxe shopping center. Here we'll make our first stop and hear the first story. The life of “Lola” and her journey to Uruguay will help us explore the history of emigration from Galicia from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.
Next, we'll go up the ramp that connects the Náutico and the Old Town to visit, whenever possible, the house museum of Antonio, living history of Vigo. This man is the last basket maker in Vigo, and his experiences will help us explore Vigo through his memories.
We'll make a stop to see Puerta del Sol and talk about the significance of the statue of “O Sereo.” We'll get to know the Old Town in its entirety, as we'll explore its history as well as the main streets of both the Lower Town and the Upper Town.
We'll head up to Monte do Castro to get a firsthand look at the Castro settlement. Next, we'll enjoy the beautiful views of the Ría de Vigo from the vantage point at the top of the hill. We'll also be able to observe different features of both the estuary and the economic and cultural development of the city of Vigo.
We'll ride along the cycle path to the outskirts of Balaídos and Citroën, where we'll explore two of the city's most influential sites and their impact throughout the 20th century. We'll hear the stories of “Iago,” the mischievous boy who became the “King of the Bateas,” and “Javier,” the man who left Melide for Vigo to dedicate his life to the city's industrial progress with Citroën.
We'll enjoy the magnificent riverside trail along the Lagares River, which will take us to the Vigo coastline. First, we'll see the beautiful Samil Beach, with a privileged view of the Cíes Islands. We'll also visit La Fuente Beach and Alcabre Beach. Finally, we'll visit the wonderful seaside village of Bouzas before heading back to the meeting point.