Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
2009). The design of the Vias Verdes (Green Ways) in Spain has incorporated
many of the architectural features of the old railway lines, in order to enhance
the overall appeal for the cyclist and walker (Aycart, 2004). In the UK,
Sustrans, the charity responsible with a wide range of partners for develop-
ment of the National Cycle Network, has included sculptures and other works
of art:
Each section of the journey should be considered as a unique
'travelling landscape'. Views can be created, shelters and screens
planted, existing structures such as bridges can be enhanced …
everything to make the journey through these public spaces
as enjoyable an experience as possible for all those who use
them. The journey itself becomes a worthwhile experience.
(Grimshaw, 1998, p7)
The slow travel experience often involves integration between modes of travel.
This dimension of the travel experience, that is, combined modes, is not
explored in the literature. In particular, the use of train and bicycle for a slow
travel holiday has remained an important part of cycling culture. However, in
recent decades, and principally in relation to high-speed and urban trains, the
bicycle has also been designed out of railway provision in many countries. The
rationale is that loading bicycles onto trains slows down scheduled stops, and
that there is no room on board to accommodate them. The picture is very
complex, in that each train-operating company in each respective country has
a different approach and regulations. In several European countries the car-
riage of cycles on longer-distance trains has declined because of inconvenience
and regulation. In some countries the cycle can still be taken easily on local
trains, but in overall terms, despite the EU introducing the Third Railway
Package in 2007 to facilitate the carriage of bicycles, train companies are
reluctant to encourage cyclists on board in any number. A notable exception
is Switzerland, where the Swiss National Railway (SBB) has a policy to cater
for cyclists, and demand has increased steadily since 2002. It has also offered
an extensive cycle hire scheme at main railway stations that allows linear cycle
rides to be made, using the rail journey for the return part of the trip.
Cyclist tours by coach are losing popularity in countries where the mar-
ket had been, until recently, strong; for example, in the Netherlands. There is
no research available on the motivation of cycle coach users. This is also the
case with ferries that are used by cyclists on sea routes to the Balearic islands,
or between Germany and Denmark.
Rail trails
The concept of developing rail trails originated in the USA, and there are over
950 multi-use trails currently in existence, with many more in gestation (Rail
Trails Conservancy, 1998). There are also networks in Canada that use old
trackbeds and other off-road facilities to encourage traffic-free cycling, such as
the Velo Quebec network. In Europe, rail trails have been developed in several
