The boom in cycling tourism: an opportunity not to be missed for regions and tourism professionals

For the past decade, cycling has experienced spectacular growth, becoming much more than just a means of transport. Bicycle tourism is now a social phenomenon that is transforming regions, boosting local economies, and responding to modern aspirations for sustainability, health, and discovery.

For tourism professionals (accommodation providers, bike rental companies, activity providers, etc.) and local elected officials, this boom is a unique opportunity This article explores the challenges, benefits, and strategies for capitalizing on this quiet revolution, offering an opportunity to boost economic activity and enhance the attractiveness of local areas.

Unprecedented growth, amplified by the health crisis

In 10 years, cycling has become the leading form of tourist travel in France, surpassing hiking. With 22 million French people using bicycles during their holidays, the country is positioning itself as the second world destination for cycling tourism after Germany. The health crisis accelerated this trend: in 2020, excluding periods of lockdown, traffic on cycle routes and greenways jumped by + 28% compared to 2019.

Today, 71% of cyclists take their bikes on vacation or rent one locally. These figures confirm that cycling, far from being a simple leisure activity, has become a genuine driver of tourism and the economy. Iconic routes such as The Loire à Vélo, The Velodyssey ou The Via Rhôna attract tourists from all over the world, showcasing France's natural and cultural heritage.

Substantial economic benefits

Cycling tourism generates 4,6 billion euros in direct economic benefits, up +46% in 10 yearsThis figure climbs to 11,4 billion euros if we include indirect and induced impacts, making cycling a leading economic driver.

For tourism professionals, the opportunities are numerous:

• Hosts Cyclists spend on average 68 € per day, primarily in accommodation and food services. Electric bike users, often older, prefer hotels and guesthouses, with an even higher average expenditure.
• Bike rentals and repair shops The rise of electric bikes (e-bikes), whose sales have increased by + 28% In 2021, a promising market opens up.
• Activity providers : Themed excursions (cycling + gastronomy, cycling + heritage) are very popular, encouraging cycle tourists to extend their stay.

A strategic issue for local authorities

For elected officials and local authorities, cycling tourism represents an opportunity to promote their regions while meeting sustainability expectations. Investments in cycling infrastructure – nearly 1,5 billion euros To date – have made it possible to structure an attractive offer. France now has 21,530 km of cycle routes on the 26 100 km planned in the national scheme, to which are added 5,500 km of regional routes et 3,000 mountain bike trails.

Local communities directly benefit from the economic spin-offs. For example, cycle routes such as The Loire à Vélo or the Breton network each generate more than 100 million euros per yearThese investments also serve as a lever to meet residents' expectations regarding soft mobility and sustainable development.

Meeting the expectations of cycle tourists

Touring cyclists have specific needs that must be met to maximize their satisfaction:

1. Adapted accommodations: llabels like Accueil Vélo (Cyclists welcome) They guarantee suitable services: secure bike storage, repair kits, and laundry facilities. More than 8,000 service providers are now certified in France.
2. High-quality cycling infrastructure
3. Runway continuity and safety are paramount. According to the ObSoCo Observatory, 70% of cyclists forgo certain journeys due to a lack of safe cycle paths..
4. Personalized offers
5. Tours combining cycling with visits to local markets, tastings or cultural discoveries help to diversify customers and increase revenue.

Integrate cycling into your tourism strategy

Whether you are a professional or an elected official, here are some ideas to capitalize on the boom in cycle tourism:

• To offer innovative services : Themed accommodations, e-bike rentals, guided excursions.
• Develop local partnerships Working with producers, restaurateurs and tourist sites to enrich the experience of cycle tourists.
• Communicate effectively : Showcase your offers on specialized platforms.

For local authorities, this also includes:

• Finalize the infrastructure planned in the national scheme.
• Promote key routes through targeted campaigns.
• Supporting local stakeholders in their transition towards a more suitable offering.

A dynamic in line with current values

Cycling meets contemporary aspirations:

• Healthcare : 78% of French people consider cycling an effective way to stay in shape.
• Purchasing power : 73% perceive it as an economical solution.
• Environment : 60% see it as a way to fight against climate change.

These values, coupled with ambitious public policies such as the plan "Destination France", promote continuous progress in the sport. The objective is clear: to make France the world's leading destination for cycling tourism from here 2030.

An opportunity to seize now

The boom in cycling tourism is much more than a trend: it's a lasting revolution transforming regions and consumption patterns. Whether you're a hotelier, a bike rental company, or a local elected official, now is the time to fully embrace this movement. By investing in suitable services and promoting your region, you can enjoy sustainable growth while contributing to a more sustainable future.

So, are you ready to pedal towards success? 🚴‍♂️