Crete’s Rethymnon Becomes ‘Bike Friendly’ Destination

Photo source: bikehotels.travel

The city of Rethymnon, located on Crete, has received the “Bike Friendly” seal by NatTour and the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature, two organizations promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Since 2017 the “Bike Friendly” certification has been awarded to municipalities that meet certain criteria and facilitate cycling enthusiasts by offering special lanes, routes, parking areas and signage, and holding activities, workshops and more. The “Bike Friendly” certification is under the auspices of the Tourism Ministry.

The Municipality of Rethymnon obtained the seal after the coordinated efforts of its tourism and programming departments. During the last 10 years, the municipality has been investing in sustainable mobility practices with the support of the EU CIVITAS Destinations program and through the actions of its tourism department, which promotes sustainable development activities related to alternative forms of tourism in Greece and abroad.

“The ‘Bike Friendly’ seal is one more recognition of the municipality’s efforts to promote sustainable mobility and its benefits for residents and visitors,” Deputy Mayor Pepi Biliraki said.

According to Biliraki, cycling tourism brings new prospects to Rethymnon, due to its valuable contribution during the low season. It is also considered vital for the development and improvement of infrastructure with the contribution of the public and private sector.

“We hope that the results of this efforts will soon bare fruit for the whole society,” Biliraki added.

Rethymon, Crete

The “Bike Friendly” seal offers the opportunity to local communities to enrich their tourism product; directly promote their offerings to the Greek and international tourism markets; tap into the benefits of alternative and thematic tourism; gain high publicity; and participate in thematic meetings, workshops and exhibitions.

“We will support all the actions and events of the Rethymnon Municipality, with the aim to promote cycling as an environmentally friendly way of transport for residents and visitors,” said Vicky Karatzavelou, public relations officer of NatTour.

The “Bike Friendly” seal will be handed over to the Rethymnon Municipality during a special event to take place as soon as health conditions permit.