SUMMARY
The Cycling and Walking Network, which brings together more than 450 local governments committed to active transportation, has published a report highlighting tourism policies focused on cycling. France is Europe’s second-most popular destination for cycle tourism after Germany, with 22 million French people cycling during their vacations. The direct economic impact of cycle tourism is estimated at around 4 billion euros per year in France. According to the Network, bike routes generate between €30,000 and €100,000 in economic benefits per kilometer per year, depending on the route.
The report is richly illustrated with concrete examples and inspiring initiatives at the intersection of tourism development, mobility policies, and the ecological transition. Many of these projects also aim to stimulate local tourism, extend the tourist season, and establish cycling as part of residents’ daily lives.
Keywords: tourism appeal, economic development, sustainability, ecosystem, EuroVelo, infrastructure, routes, cycling tourism, recreation, active mobility, cycling infrastructure, bike plan, quality of life, economic benefits, seasonality, services, sports, rural areas, urban areas, cycling tourism, local tourism, transitions, multimodal transport, electric-assist bicycles, cargo bikes, bike routes, mountain biking, France, Europe.
