Bike Friendly at IEK ALFA’s Tourism Seminars: Education as the foundation for sustainable mobility and cycling tourism

As part of the seminar series, Vicky Karantzavelou, General Manager of Nattour and head of the Bike Friendly certification programme, delivered a presentation titled “Bike Friendly: the future of tourism lies in soft mobility.” Her session provided students with essential insights and strategies on the role of cycling in sustainable tourism development. The seminar is scheduled to be repeated in the coming months across IEK ALFA campuses.

Bike Friendly’s participation underscores the organisation’s strong emphasis on educating future tourism professionals and fostering a culture of sustainable mobility. Through both its certification programme and broader initiatives, Nattour aims to support destinations and hospitality businesses in adopting practices that enhance the cycling experience and contribute to more responsible and environmentally conscious tourism models. Education is integral to this mission.

Proper training of tourism professionals can significantly strengthen the development of cycling tourism in Greece. Emerging hospitality professionals are encouraged to understand the importance of soft mobility for residents’ quality of life, road safety, and the overall enhancement of visitor experience. At the same time, understanding cyclists’ needs enables the creation of suitable infrastructure and services that increase a destination’s appeal for this growing market segment.

Cultivating a cycling culture among the wider population — both residents and visitors — is also essential for the long-term success of cycling tourism. Choosing the bicycle as a mode of transport requires awareness and informed decision-making, supported by education, habit change, and familiarity with the principles of sustainable mobility. Respect for cyclists’ needs by drivers of other vehicles is a critical factor in ensuring safe coexistence for all road users.

Increasing knowledge and awareness through educational initiatives and related activities can help create more bicycle-friendly environments in both urban and tourism settings.

Bike Friendly’s involvement in the IEK ALFA seminars reaffirms its commitment to shaping the next generation of tourism professionals and promoting the understanding that the tourism industry of tomorrow depends on mobility models that support sustainability, active living, and environmental respect. Through initiatives like this, Bike Friendly contributes to strengthening cycling culture and shaping destinations that offer safe, enjoyable, and sustainable experiences for all. We thank IEK ALFA for providing the platform to share this vision.