Calpe in southern Spain has boomed as a cycling destination over the last decade, with many Irish groups going there. But now some issues are emerging within the local community (Photo: Katyapulka)
A popular destination for cyclists from all over the world, including Ireland, Calpe in southern Spain is considering implementing measures aimed at controlling the growing cycling tourism sector in the region.
Major pro teams hold winter training camps in Calpe, which has boosted the popularity of the region among cyclists from across Europe.
While many are attracted to the region for the milder climate, including sunshine, during the winter months, the chances of seeing the biggest stars and their teams training on the roads is also a draw.
However, as is the case when any particular form of tourism grows quickly in a region, some issues have emerged. And there now seem to be concerns locally about the impact that so many cyclists flocking to the same location is having on the local community.
Calpe City Council has decided to undertake research into cycling tourism in the region, especially its impact during the winter months. The research is being compiled in a bid to determine if new restrictions or measures should be put in place, including around road safety.
“We are studying a campaign in hotels. In Calpe there are more than twenty businesses that have opened in the last decade around cyclists,” said Marco Bittner, councillor for tourism promotion
The analysis will be carried out at a regional level to “see the conclusions and the battery of measures to be taken”. The council also noted sports tourism, including that based around cycling, accounts for 3.3 per cent of gross domestic product across Spain.
Councillor for tourism planning in Calpe, Mireia Ripoll, said “like any tourism boom” cycling “generates negative things that must be alleviated”. These included reinforcing the need, among tourists and locals, to respect traffic rules and exercise caution on the roads.
The research aimed at tracking the growth and impact of cycling tourism, involving many cycling groups, comes at a time when the region is still being heavily promoted as a cycling destination.
For example, much of the advertising Calpe does to attract visitors, especially in the winter months, is based around cyclists. Calpe also hosted a conference last month aimed at devising ways of drawing more cyclists to the wider Costa Blanca region.
Calpe has also entered into an agreement with Soudal QuickStep aimed at the Belgian pro team promoting the region as a cycling destination.