The Municipality of Mytilene has officially joined the network of "Bike Friendly" municipalities and destinations, receiving the corresponding certification from NATTOUR, in collaboration with the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature. The certification, under the auspices of the Ministries of Tourism, Environment & Energy, and Infrastructure & Transport, recognizes the municipality’s tangible efforts to promote cycling tourism and sustainable mobility.
Municipality of Mytilene certified as a “Bike Friendly” destination
The Municipality of Mytilene has officially joined the network of "Bike Friendly" municipalities and destinations, receiving the corresponding certification from NATTOUR, in collaboration with the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature. The certification, under the auspices of the Ministries of Tourism, Environment & Energy, and Infrastructure & Transport, recognizes the municipality’s tangible efforts to promote cycling tourism and sustainable mobility.
The “Bike Friendly” certification is the result of strategic planning and targeted interventions by the Municipality of Mytilene to promote environmentally responsible forms of tourism. Among the mandatory criteria fulfilled by the municipality are:
- Dedicated cycling routes and the provision of relevant information on the municipality’s official digital platforms.
- An automated e-bike rental system, allowing both residents and visitors to opt for bicycles as a sustainable mode of transportation and exploration.
- Availability of bicycle rental and repair services through local businesses.
- Organization of regular cycling events on the island.
- Participation in tourism exhibitions, both domestically and internationally.
In addition, the municipality meets several optional criteria, such as designated cycling lanes and road signage, bicycle parking racks, digital maps of cycling routes, and the presence of a highly active local cycling association, which has played a key role in promoting a cycling culture and developing cycling tourism in the destination.
The award ceremony for the “Bike Friendly Destination” certification took place on Sunday, June 22, 2025, during the “Tsamakia Kids MTB 2025” event in Mytilene. The event was organized by the Lesvos Cycling Association in collaboration with the Municipality of Mytilene and included a traffic education park and mini MTB track aimed at teaching children basic cycling rules, bicycle maintenance skills, and repair knowledge. As part of the event, participants also rode along the cycling path surrounding the Mytilene Castle. At the close of the event, Ms. Vicky Karantzavelou, General Director of NATTOUR, officially presented the “Bike Friendly” award to Mr. Panagiotis Christofas, Mayor of Mytilene, recognizing the efforts of both the municipality and the local cycling association in advancing cycling culture and cycling tourism.
Mayor Panagiotis Christofas stated:
“The certification of our municipality as a Bike Friendly destination is a significant acknowledgment of our efforts to create a bike-friendly environment, improve micromobility, and support a greener, more sustainable, and more attractive destination for both residents and visitors. We continue to invest in initiatives that improve quality of life, showcase our natural wealth, and encourage visitors to experience Mytilene and Lesvos through activities like cycling.”
Deputy Mayor for Tourism, Mr. Nikolaos Giannakas, emphasized:
“Our inclusion in the Bike Friendly network aligns with our strategic plan for sustainable urban development and alternative tourism promotion. It positions Mytilene as a cyclist-friendly destination both nationally and internationally.”
President of the Lesvos Cycling Association, Mr. Dimitris Dimitriadis, added:
“The Bike Friendly certification is a milestone not only for the Municipality of Mytilene but for the entire island of Lesvos. It recognizes years of dedicated efforts by the cycling association, the municipality, and other stakeholders to elevate the role of cycling. We are not yet at the level of Belgium or the Netherlands, but we are on the right path. Urban cycling infrastructure, certified cycling routes, and more bike-friendly services are needed. The association will submit detailed proposals to further strengthen the cycling tourism offering and promote the unique beauty of the island, building on today’s recognition.”
Ms. Vicky Karantzavelou, General Director of NATTOUR, noted:
“The Bike Friendly certification of the Municipality of Mytilene marks a significant step in positioning Lesvos as a cycling-friendly destination. The municipality met all required criteria, demonstrating the infrastructure, vision, and commitment necessary to enhance sustainable tourism and soft mobility. NATTOUR continues to expand the Bike Friendly network, which now includes 130 hotels, 10 regions and municipalities, and numerous partners such as bike shops and tour companies—initiatives that enrich Greece’s tourism offering and promote long-term sustainability.”
The inclusion of Mytilene in the Bike Friendly network further strengthens Lesvos’ presence on the thematic tourism map, providing a competitive edge in tourism planning and contributing to local economic development.
