Once considered a niche passion, cycle tourism has become one of the most dynamic and strategic segments of the travel industry. The latest figures from the UNWTO confirm it: active travel, the kind that combines exploration with physical activity, now represents over 9% of global experiential tourism, with cycle tourism as its fastest-growing segment. According to Statista and Market Analytics, the market is projected to exceed $140 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 8%.
The Rise of Gravel: The Symbol of a New Way to Travel
If 2025 is already being called the year of gravel, it’s for good reason. Gravel bikes perfectly capture the modern cyclist’s desire for freedom, adventure, comfort and versatility. They are equally at home on asphalt or dirt roads, blending the efficiency of a road bike with the spirit of a mountain bike, a mix that appeals to both weekend riders and long-distance explorers. Recent data shows the gravel bike segment growing at 8.5% annually until 2033, driven largely by recreational tourism and the surge of “slow travel.” This is more than a cycling trend, it’s a cultural shift. Gravel riders are choosing experiences that blend performance, discovery and sustainability.
Europe Leads the Way
Europe remains the beating heart of cycle tourism. Germany, the Netherlands, the UK and Scandinavia lead the market both in participation and infrastructure, but Southern Europe, particularly Italy, Spain and Portugal, is catching up fast. Some of the most popular routes include:
- Italy: From the Via Francigena and the Ciclovia del Sole to the Anello del Garda, Italy offers unmatched diversity — from Alpine climbs to Mediterranean coasts.
- Spain and Portugal: Perfect weather, rich culture and scenic landscapes make them year-round cycling paradises.
- Greece and the Balkans: Emerging destinations offering authenticity and raw natural beauty.
- Northern Europe: Still the benchmark for world-class cycling infrastructure and seamless logistics.
From Travel to Experience
Modern cyclists are no longer just tourists, they are explorers. They seek experiences that combine sport, culture, and sustainability. For tour operators, bike hotels, and travel agencies, this shift requires new levels of adaptability and innovation. Success now depends on the ability to provide:
- Integrated logistics services (bike transport, rental, maintenance, insurance) for a stress-free experience.
- Digitalisation and automation of booking, tracking and support processes.
- Certified sustainability and collaboration with local communities to create authentic, lasting value.
The Road Ahead
Cycle tourism is no longer a niche, it’s a strategic pillar of experiential tourism, perfectly aligned with Europe’s green mobility goals. The challenge for the industry will be to scale sustainably, keeping the human and emotional side of travel at its core.
At Ship To Cycle, we’re proud to support this transformation. With our logistics solutions, we help tour operators, bike hotels and individual cyclists focus on what truly matters: the journey itself, not the challenges of getting there.
