Chapter 9: A Business Network Model for the Development of Cycle Tourism in a Destination

Cycling has become a popular and widespread incentive for tourist activity. Cycle tourism, in its many forms, is one of the most innovative and interesting expressions of the change taking place in the industry and represents a concrete opportunity for many destinations to refresh their offer. The phenomenon is often seen in connection with adventure, sports, nature, rural and sustainable tourism (Lamont, 2009). In that, cycle tourists are a segment of that wider movement of travellers who prefer an active holiday. They can be considered adventure tourists embarking on both road and mountain biking tours. They might take part in cycling events or travel to attend them as spectators (UNWTO, 2014). As numerous studies highlight, cycle tourism is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable and generates benefits for local communities. As a result, both holiday destinations as well as rural areas around the world are investing in bike trails as low-cost, soft infrastructure that benefits both locals and tourists.