The Barcelona Provincial Council, in collaboration with several local municipalities, is organising a popular walk and cycle ride for the Via Blava Anoia project in Igualada, Central Catalonia, on Saturday, 25 April 2026. This family-friendly event aims to introduce residents and visitors to the first section of the new route. Over 350 people have already registered for the event, which is non-competitive and adapted for diverse abilities. Participants can choose from various modalities: a short walk of 11 kilometres, a longer walk covering 14 kilometres, an 18-kilometre cycle ride, or a 4-kilometre route designed for people with reduced mobility. The event involves the municipalities of Igualada, Jorba, Santa Margarida de Montbui, Vilanova del Camí, and La Pobla de Claramunt. The Via Blava Anoia, or Anoia Blue Route, is described as a unique tourist proposal, with its initial 19-kilometre section having opened in November 2025. This path, suitable for both walking and cycling, is set to expand progressively along the Anoia river basin. ## Exploring the Anoia Blue Route The event on 25 April will commence with bib collection between 8:30am and 9:30am. The walk and running activities are scheduled to start between 9:30am and 9:45am, followed by the cycling departure between 9:45am and 10:15am. The main meeting point for the event is the Museu de la Pell (Leather Museum) in Igualada, located at Dr. Joan Mercader, 1. The activities will officially begin at the Parc de Cal·listènia (Cal·listènia Park) on Avda. Del Rec, also in Igualada. The Via Blava Anoia forms part of the broader Vies Blaves Barcelona (Barcelona Blue Routes) project, an initiative by the Barcelona Provincial Council to create a network of accessible routes along the region's rivers. These routes are designed to promote sustainable tourism, outdoor sports, and appreciation of the natural environment and cultural heritage of the areas they traverse. The project aims to connect communities and offer new recreational opportunities. ## Future Development and Regional Impact The current 19-kilometre stretch of the Via Blava Anoia provides a significant new amenity for the Anoia region. Officials confirmed that the path will continue to grow, extending further along the Anoia river's course. This expansion is expected to enhance the region's appeal as a destination for active tourism, offering more extensive options for cyclists and walkers. The ongoing development reflects a commitment to improving public access to natural spaces and encouraging a healthier lifestyle among residents.