Nature Trails and Mixed Routes - Tourism and Trails: Cultural, Ecological and Management Issues - page 79

Vale of Eden and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
and is an important part of the tourism product of all three areas (Cope et al. ,
2003; Cope et al. , 1998).
Few countries can match the comprehensive cycle network of the
Netherlands, where approximately one-third of the population uses bicycles
for their main mode of transportation (European Commission, 2011). Bicycle
use in the Netherlands is followed by Hungary, Denmark and Sweden in
importance. This has resulted in a widespread network of cycling routes in
urban and rural settings throughout Europe. The Dutch Cyclists' Union
( Fietsersbond ) works toward assuring smooth and direct cycling routes, better
parking facilities for bicycles, safer riding conditions and fewer bicycle thefts
(Fietsersbond, 2013). Together with many other national cycling associations
in Europe, the Dutch Union is part of the European Cyclists' Federation
(ECF), which since 1983 has attempted to ensure that cycling achieves its
fullest potential as a healthy and sustainable recreational activity and mode
of transportation throughout Europe. Its primary aims are to:

• elevate the status of cycling and raise awareness of its health and social
benefits;
• include the needs of cyclists in transport planning, including health,
safety and environmental issues;
• support member groups on national and international issues related to
the aims of the ECF;
• promote and support research on cycling, transportation, safety and
environment;
• augment information and advice for member groups to assist in their
national and international activities;
• encourage the exchange of information and expertise between
members; and

• disseminate information that helps raise awareness of politicians, inter-

national institutions, planners, trade associations, tourism authorities
and environmental groups in relation to biking and its needs. (European
Cyclists' Federation, 2013b)

Some of the trail-specific efforts of ECF have resulted in the establish-
ment of EuroVelo, the European Cycle Route Network. Its purpose is to
form and operate a network of cycling routes that crosses and unites all of
Europe (Figure 3.7). In particular, EuroVelo aspires to accomplish the follow-
ing goals:

• to ensure the implementation of high-quality cycle routes in all countries

of Europe, enacting best practices across borders and harmonizing stan-
dards throughout the continent;