Cycling Tourism Initiatives
The Active Tourism Coalition will Promote Active Travel in Europe
Debra John — January 24, 2026The 'Active Tourism Coalition' brings together civil society groups and industry organizations to promote active travel as a more sustainable approach to tourism in Europe. Active tourism focuses on physical activities such as cycling, walking, and hiking, which allow travelers to experience destinations at a slower pace while reducing environmental impact. These forms of travel rely less on motorized transport, produce fewer emissions, and place less strain on local infrastructure.
The coalition highlights that active tourism supports environmental goals while also benefiting local communities. By encouraging visitors to travel on foot or by bike, tourism can spread more evenly across regions and seasons, helping reduce overcrowding in popular destinations. This approach also supports rural and lesser-known areas by increasing local spending and engagement.
Overall, the coalition views active tourism as a practical way to align tourism growth with environmental responsibility. By integrating active travel into broader tourism strategies, destinations can lower their environmental footprint while offering more meaningful, community-focused travel experiences.