Cycling Tourism in the region
Cashing in on the growing tourism potential for Prescott-Russell of recreational and adventure cycling was the goal of two midOctober workshops.
The United Counties of Prescott-Russell Recreation Trail Inc. (PRRT) and Tourisme Prescott-Russell Tourism (TPRT) cohosted workshops for local businesses and interested individuals, Oct. 18 and 19 in St-Albert and Alfred, on the theme of cycle tourism. The Ontario By Bike Network (OBBN) provided guest speakers for the workshops, to explain both the opportunities and benefits to the local tourism sector in targeting the adventure and eco cycling trends in tourism. Presenters also provided details on business certification with the OBBN.
“Cycling has been a key tourism attractor for the region over the past few years now,” stated Martin Lacelle, TPRT executive director. “With this new partnership with Ontario By Bike Network, we can move forward in promoting Prescott-Russell as a cycling destination not to be missed.”
Workshop speakers explained how recreational cycling is growing as part of the typical vacation trip plan. Avid cyclists may plan their entire holiday around a longdistance cycling tour, while other vacationers may limit the cycling part of their vacation plan to a day or afternoon outing, among other activities.
Businesses, whether tourism operators or those in the food-and-beverage or other service sectors, must understand “the unique needs and desires of cyclists” to attract them as clients. OBBN speakers highlighted Ontario’s growing cycle tourism sector, both at the local and regional levels, the existing infrastructure for that sector, including trails and support services, and the impact that cycle tourism has on the economy.
In 2014, cyclists average three overnight trips in Ontario. Statistical survey review indicates 38 per cent of cyclists during their trips spent more than $100 on accommodations, 36 per cent spent more than $50 on food and drink, and that 95 per cent spent at least a quarter of their holiday budget on various tourist-related activities during each day of their trip. The most popular activities for cyclists included visiting cultural sites and museums, shopping, wine-tasting, and dining out.
“We are excited to bring together the local business community, residents and tourism operators to share information about this growing market,” stated Louisa Mursell, transportation options executive director.