Planning a cycling holiday across Europe has become simpler thanks to EuroVelo's new initiative, which helps travellers find certified cycling-friendly businesses and services along their routes. The new cycling-friendly labels platform consolidates information on quality-certified tourism providers specifically equipped to cater to cyclists. Cycling-friendly labels are certification programs that recognise tourism businesses offering services tailored for cycle tourists, including accommodation providers, campsites, restaurants, cafés, visitor centres, attractions, bicycle rental companies, and repair shops. To earn certification, businesses must meet criteria that make bicycle travel more comfortable, convenient, and reliable. Common services include secure bike parking, repair tools, local cycling route information, e-bike charging stations, luggage storage, clothing-drying facilities, one-night stays, and access to maps and cycling information. These services are increasingly seen as vital components of quality cycling tourism infrastructure.

The European Cyclists' Federation (ECF) reports that over 20,800 certified businesses and 22,300 services now carry cycling-friendly labels across more than 20 European countries. The new EuroVelo platform features an interactive map allowing users to view available labels by country and access detailed information about participating schemes and businesses. The development was supported by two EU co-funded projects. On EuroVelo 10 – Baltic Sea Cycle Route, work was conducted through the Baltic Biking UPGRADE (BBU) project, co-financed by the Interreg South Baltic Programme and led by the Pomorskie Tourist Board, with partners from Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, and Lithuania. Similarly, along EuroVelo 13 – the Iron Curtain Trail - related developments were funded through the ICTr-CE project. This initiative addresses the increasing demand for high-quality cycling tourism experiences. Research consistently shows that cyclists value not only good infrastructure but also reliable services along their routes. Factors such as accommodation, food options, signage, information, and support services are becoming increasingly important for traveller satisfaction and destination selection.

Cycling-friendly destination labels offer benefits beyond visitor convenience. Certification programs enhance service quality, boost visibility for local businesses, and make cycling routes more attractive. They also support sustainable tourism by promoting low-carbon travel and helping local economies. The launch signifies the maturing of cycling tourism in Europe. As EuroVelo broadens its network and services, the focus shifts from infrastructure alone to the overall visitor experience. Ensuring cyclists can easily access quality accommodation, food, repair services, and information is now vital for route development. For cycle tourists planning their trips, the new platform provides a helpful tool for finding trusted services and planning smoother, more enjoyable journeys across Europe. It also illustrates how European cooperation projects can enhance the quality of tourism and cross-border connectivity.

More information:
https://en.eurovelo.com/news/2026-02-25_cycling-friendly-labels-your-allies-for-a-smooth-cycling-trip

Baltic Biking UPGRADE project:
https://pro.eurovelo.com/projects/2023-09-21_baltic-biking-upgrade

#Cycling Tourism #Sustainable Mobility #Projects