Greek Bike Friendly Hotels Get Special Sticker, Pilot Launch at WTM London 2016

Greek hotels welcoming bicycle lovers and accommodating their needs will now receive a special sticker in efforts to attract cyclists and actively contribute to sustainable tourism, with a pilot launch of the Bike Friendly Hotel program to take place at the World Travel Market in London in November.

A joint initiative of the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF) and NATTOUR, the sticker will be awarded to accommodation facilities that offer among others one-night stays, secure overnight bike storage, regional cycling maps with indicated bike trails, bike repair kits for minor repairs and maintenance, washing/drying facilities for clothes and gear, recommendations for bike repair and rental shops, and must be posted on their sites.

Hotels already certified for their bike friendly operations include the Porto Carras’ Meliton Beach and Sithonia Beach in Halkidiki, with pending applications by 20 hospitality facilities on Crete, Evia and Kos, and in Metsovo, Pelion and Messinia. Establishments receive the certification after completing the implementation of the required criteria.

Units are also expected to meet three additional standards, including offering bicycle rentals options, working together with agents offering bike tours, providing bike racks, offering organic breakfast choices and rejuvenation and wellness options.