A NEW guide has been launched to help businesses across Dumfries and Galloway capitalise on a growing global interest in cycling.
Created by VisitScotland, the resource comes as the country prepares to host the 2023 UCI World Cycling Championships this summer.
The South of Scotland, with its abundance of mountain biking trails and road routes, is already a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts and the region is set to welcome the Para-cycling events as part of the Championships.
Hosted on VisitScotland.org, the online guide contains information to ensure that businesses can cater for an influx of cycling enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
It includes:
* Practical advice on how businesses can create a high-quality experience for cyclists
* Market insights from the latest cycling tourism research
* Visitor Insights – which visitors are interested in cycling trips
* Marketing advice- how to attract cycling visitors, and which channels to use
* Cycling tourism trends
There are also includes examples of businesses that are already providing experiences or services that could be of interest to cyclists.
Worth an estimated £37bn to the European economy, cycling tourism has grown in popularity in recent years. In Scotland, in 2019, UK overnight visitors who took part in cycling activities spent a total of £266m.
Rob Dickson, from VisitScotland, said: “This new resource on our website will provide a clear and practical guide to help industry understand how to make the most of cycling tourism and the interest generated from the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.
“There has never been a better time to experience cycling in Scotland, with new cycling initiatives and experiences being created right across the country, promoting cycling and helping businesses cater for this growing market will benefit communities right across the country. “
* For more information about cycling tourism or to access VisitScotland’s Scotland. Made for Scotland industry guide, visit: https://visitscotland.org/cycling-tourism
