Tour operators are being urged to offer more cycling itineraries after a Mintel study found Britain to be a nation of bike enthusiasts.
Last year, Brits spent £120 million on dedicated cycling holidays, according to new research, and went on 450,000 bike holidays. Operators enjoyed up to a 30% increase in bookings compared to 2005, the report added.
Mintel also estimated that a further 2.25 million holidays taken by Brits last year included cycling, such as a day’s bike hire or tour. Meanwhile, 22% of 15-24-year-olds have not been on a cycling holiday but would like to do so in future.
Based on the potential growth of this type of holiday, the report suggests operators should combine more cycling itineraries into mainstream holidays, rebranding them as ‘cycling-plus’ trips and offering bike rides with other experiences such as walking and boating.
Senior travel consultant Richard Cope said: “Cycling has been given a new lease of life by recent environmental issues…and cycling holidays should continue to see a rise in loyal followers.
“Although fly and flop still dominates the mass market, many well-travelled and well-off consumers are becoming bored with sun worship and are seeking more active experiences.”