New recognition for the ‘Bike Friendly’ label: Now also under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism's endorsement of the "Bike Friendly" label provides dynamic support and momentum to NatTour's cycling tourism initiatives.
The Ministry of Tourism's endorsement of the "Bike Friendly" label provides dynamic support and momentum to NatTour's cycling tourism initiatives.

Dynamic reinforcement and boost to NatTour’s cycling tourism initiatives come with the Ministry of Tourism’s endorsement of the “Bike Friendly” label. This endorsement represents another distinction and recognition of NatTour’s efforts in developing and promoting a network of bike-friendly hotels, partners, and destinations.

Cycling has become an increasingly popular activity in recent years, shaping a new strategy both in tourism and citizen mobility. At the heart of this strategy is the bicycle as a mode of transportation and “gentle activities” for tourists and citizens alike.

Continuous expansion of the Bike Friendly network

The “Bike Friendly” network currently includes 80 hotels and accommodations, 15 collaborating cycling companies and shops, and a number of travel agencies as Greek Bike Specialists. The “Bike Friendly” label serves as both a certification and a marketing tool, contributing to the promotion of Greek destinations and businesses to thematic and cycling tourism enthusiasts, while also enhancing the experience of cycling tourists.

The Ministry of Tourism's endorsement of the "Bike Friendly" label provides dynamic support and momentum to NatTour's cycling tourism initiatives.

Just days after the Ministry of Tourism granted its endorsement to “Bike Friendly,” and amid the lockdown, Ms. Vicky Karantzavelou, Public Relations Manager of NatTour, stated: “We are very pleased with the recognition of our efforts by the Ministry of Tourism. This endorsement strengthens and supports our next steps in promoting the bicycle as a means of transportation for both citizens and tourists. We are always looking ahead, not only to our successes but also to the unfortunate circumstances of the pandemic. Thematic tourism and activities such as cycling can contribute to overcoming crises by extending the tourism season and boosting both inbound and domestic tourism. With the current restrictions on movement, which are also a form of informal confinement, and the accumulation of stress and other negative emotions such as fear, anger, and pessimism, recreational tourism, as well as the desire for people to move towards nature and the outdoors, may become an expanded social need in the future. Let’s not forget that the bicycle serves as both a mode of transportation and a way to exercise, promoting both physical and mental health.”

After the end of the lockdown, Ms. Karantzavelou added: “In a tourism season focused on ‘social distancing,’ hygiene, and the safety of tourists, as well as contact with nature, cycling and the ‘Bike Friendly’ label will be crucial factors in boosting the ‘tourism product.’ The endless cycling routes within Greece’s unique natural environment can provide a ‘breath of incentives’ in contrast to mass tourism and overcrowding. Cycling is an activity that embodies the concept of ‘together,’ but not ‘side by side.’ It can be enjoyed by groups of visitors in outdoor spaces while maintaining proper distances.”

Republished from Travel Daily News.