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The majestic Alps are not only famous for their snow-capped peaks and winding roads, but also as an ideal destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. Recognizing the immense potential of this type of tourism, the Austrian government is boosting investment and infrastructure development to attract international tourists to explore the Alps by bicycle.
In recent years, mountain biking tourism has seen strong growth in Austria. According to statistics, revenue from mountain biking tourism in Austria has doubled in the last five years. A survey also shows that cyclists have become the second largest group of summer tourists in Austria, after hikers, increasing from 22% before the pandemic to 27% in 2023.
The "Roof of Europe" is not only famous for its beautiful scenery but also a destination for cycling enthusiasts.
The Alps boast a majestic and picturesque natural landscape with towering mountains, lush green valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. It's an ideal destination for those who love exploring nature by bicycle.
The Austrian government has invested heavily in building and upgrading mountain biking routes. Today, Austria boasts an extensive network of mountain biking trails, totaling over 70,000 km, catering to the diverse needs of visitors.
The government of this country has invested heavily in developing cycling-related tourism.
According to a joint report by the weather agencies of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, last winter in the Alps was the second warmest in Austria since 1851, prompting ski resorts to adapt to milder conditions. This climate change has encouraged tourist destinations to consider mountain biking as a viable alternative to traditional winter sports.
Fifty years ago, the Austrian government issued a ban on cycling across mountain ranges such as the Alps, unless approved by the relevant authorities. Violators could be fined up to 730 euros (800 USD), or even several thousand euros.
However, in response to the current situation, the Austrian government is aiming to meet the growing demand for legal mountain biking routes by developing plans to sign more contracts with landowners, including forest owners, who are restricting access, thereby building more bike parks and trail centers.
The goal of this initiative is to expand access, ensuring mountain bikers can access more routes, thereby boosting tourism and local economic development. It also encourages visitors to use environmentally friendly modes of transportation, contributing to reduced air and noise pollution.
The Austrian government will negotiate with landowners to lease or purchase land, or to obtain land use rights for the construction of bike parks and trails. The government will coordinate with local communities to ensure that the new bike parks and trails are designed and built to meet their needs.
