Cycle tourism, an activity that combines the pleasure of traveling with a passion for cycling, is becoming more and more popular. The latest data, such as those provided by Legambiente in their press release of 2023, confirm that bike tourism is no longer a niche, but is emerging as an increasingly widespread travel trend.
The Numbers Provided By Legambiente
According to the data provided by Legambiente in collaboration with Isnart in 2023, cycling vacations have recorded a significant increase compared to previous years.
The total number of cycle tourists in Italy is constantly growing: there were 9 million in 2022 (in 2019 there were 4.4 million), a number that created an economic impact of over 1 billion euros.
A key point highlighted by Legambiente concerns the growth of this sector in Italian regions where this touristic product had not yet taken hold.
In addition to the established regions in this product, such as Tuscany, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige (which alone attracted 47% of cycle tourism flows in 2022), there is emphasis on the progressive spread of this trend throughout the rest of the country. It’s worth mentioning:
- Basilicata, which hosts 21 cycle tourism itineraries for a total of 1,729 km.
- Abruzzo, where the experience of cycling along the “Costa dei Trabocchi” stands out.
- Puglia, which aims for a “bike” positioning, especially through the organization of many sport activities.
- Calabria, which has strongly focused on the “Bike paths Park“.
Sustainability And Cycle Tourism
In addition to participation numbers, the data emphasize how cycle tourism is becoming an increasingly popular choice for those seeking sustainable travel experiences. Traveling by bike, in fact, reduces carbon emissions, providing an ecological alternative to traditional modes of transportation.
This connection between sustainability and cycle tourism could be one of the main drivers of this exponential growth. In the face of global attention to environmental protection, cycle tourism emerges as a practice that not only allows exploration of new places but also contributes to preserving the ecosystem.
Conclusions
In conclusion, cycle tourism is no longer confined to a niche but is becoming a fast-growing trend that requires resources and investments. The sustainable aspect, along with the positive impact on local communities, makes biking tourism an enticing choice for travelers.
If you’re looking for an exciting, healthy, and responsible way to explore the world, cycle tourism is definitely the way to go!
