A BID to establish Scotland as one of the world’s leading cycling destinations will be launched within months after being identified by tourism leaders as one of the industry’s best prospects for growth.
The success of cycling superstars such as Sir Chris Hoy and Sir Bradley Wiggins is behind the high-profile drive to promote Scotland as a magnet both for mountain bikers and road cyclists. Scotland’s wilderness areas and remote islands are set to take centre-stage in the campaign, which aims to make cycling as much of a draw for visitors as Munro-bagging.
It also aims to capitalise on the popularity of events such as the Etape Caledonia in Perthshire and the Mountain Bike World Cup in Fort William over the past decade.
A nationwide bike hire scheme, a series of new cycle networks, a single national route from John O’Groats to Dumfries and Galloway, and the creation of new events are among the ideas under discussion. It is also hoped the campaign will make it easier for cyclists to take their bikes on to public transport, as well as help encourage Scots to explore their own country more.
Experts believe there is huge potential to grow the value of cycling to the economy from its current level of about £300 million through better promotion, new facilities and encouraging cyclists to make the most of other attractions during a biking holiday in Scotland.
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