Cycle tourism continues to be one of the fastest-growing sectors in Europe, with over 33 million visitors and an economic impact exceeding €4 billion recorded in Italy in 2022. This positive trend is driven not only by the rising demand for active vacations but also by the ability of specialized operators to offer high-quality services and anticipate market trends.
Widespread optimism among industry operators is supported by data from ISNART, which projects revenue growth for 90% of Italian cycle tourism operators in 2023. Over the past three years, these businesses have reported significant revenue increases, benefiting from the post-pandemic travel resurgence.
L’importanza di formare figure professionali
The Importance of Training Skilled Professionals
To sustain this positive momentum and further promote sector growth, it is vital to cultivate professionalism across all stakeholders, especially newcomers to cycle tourism.
The Cycle Tourism Forum in Bologna, offers a unique platform for training, networking, and sharing best practices.
The event features a broad range of activities, including training sessions for hotels, specialized tour guides, bike rental companies, and tour package organizers.
Additionally, the 4th ISNART Cycle Tourism Report will be presented, alongside a panel showcasing national and international best practices.
B2B Networking
Beyond training, the event provides ample networking opportunities among participants and international exhibitors, fostering business relationships and economic prospects.
Cycle tourism thrives on interconnected networks of operators, infrastructure, and expertise, and the Forum aims to encourage the development of these networks.
The invitation extends to everyone involved in cycle tourism, from newcomers seeking to enter the field to experienced professionals eager to enhance their skills and discover new opportunities.
Success Stories in Cycle Tourism
The success of cycle tourism is exemplified by case studies such as Catalonia, the Alpe Adria Cycle Route, Gran Canaria, and the BRN Village in Romagna. These destinations have successfully leveraged the opportunities offered by cycle tourism, transforming their regions into increasingly attractive spots for cycling enthusiasts.
Best Practices
The BRN Village demonstrates the potential of bike parks to boost local tourism.
Catalonia has made cycle tourism a cornerstone of its tourism strategy.
The Alpe Adria Cycle Route has significantly promoted Friuli Venezia Giulia as a premier cycle tourism destination.
Gran Canaria has invested heavily in infrastructure and initiatives to promote sustainable mobility and cycle tourism.
Destinations and Attractions
Catalonia has focused on de-seasonalization and diversification, as seen in the tourism development of the Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees. These destinations have successfully turned cycling into a well-structured offering for tourists of all experience levels.
The Alpe Adria Cycle Route, stretching 400 km from Salzburg (Austria) to Grado in eight stages, records nearly 250,000 annual trips. This success has spurred the creation of new itineraries in Friuli Venezia Giulia to avoid overcrowding in certain areas.
Gran Canaria, named Best Foreign Destination at the 2023 Cycle Tourism Oscars, is a favorite destination in Europe. The island boasts numerous bike hotels, a dedicated association (Gran Canaria Tri Bike & Run), and 28 bike rental companies. Sustainable mobility initiatives include a 2016 Bicycle Master Plan and grants for residents to purchase bicycles, with the goal of reducing CO2 emissions.
A Bright Future
Companies like Bikenomist, the show’s organizer, have contributed to the sector’s success by promoting bicycle-related economies and organizing events.
Cycle tourism represents a growing sector brimming with opportunities for those willing to invest in professionalism, innovation, and networking. The Cycle Tourism Forum is a must-attend event for anyone looking to be part of this growth and contribute to the industry’s success.
Note: For information on purchasing a pass for the Forum, visit the dedicated page.
