A newly launched cycling network in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain, spans 2,180 kilometres and connects 168 municipalities, offering a fresh way for tourists to explore the region. This initiative, backed by €2.4 million from the European Next Generation funds, features over 3,200 signposts guiding cyclists through both urban and rural landscapes.
The Rural Bike Conecta CLM not only highlights the region’s natural beauty, linking two national parks and two UNESCO Global Geoparks, but it also aims to enhance local tourism. As the region experiences a tourism boom, this cycling route is expected to attract more visitors seeking active and sustainable travel options.
Patricia Franco, the regional minister of economy, noted that the network serves as a vital tool for promoting the area’s ecological assets. With plans to integrate this route into the broader EuroVelo network, it could potentially connect cyclists from London to various European destinations, further boosting international tourism.
As cycling grows in popularity, this initiative may influence travel patterns, encouraging more eco-friendly transportation methods. The long-term impact could reshape local economies, making cycling a central part of Castilla-La Mancha’s tourism strategy.
Source: Euronews
