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Tourism and cycling businesses in Scotland could be about to beneift from an influx of mountain biking tourism, to the tune of a 30 per cent rise over five years, according to Cycling Scotland.
Tourism Intelligence Scotland is now encouraging businesses in key areas to attend workshops based around making the most of opportunities presented by increased levels of visitors enjoying the outdoors.
Attendees will be provided with the latest intelligence and insights on the mountain biking visitor markets, including: information on local trail centres and facilities; the opportunity to hear from a local business as they share their secrets for success; and creative ideas to help them make the most of the opportunities in mountain bike tourism. Attendees can also find out about the launch of the new Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland website, where free tools such as photographs and trail guides can be downloaded for businesses to use in marketing campaigns.
Two half day workshops have been scheduled during October. The first workshop will be held at Perth Concert Hall/Kinnoull Hill on Tuesday 25th October and the second at Nevis Range, Fort William on Wednesday 26th October 2011. Both are from 09.30 to 13.00, followed by the one hour taster session on the trails. Each costs £20 per person and includes lunch and equipment hire.
Katrina Morrison, tourism strategic priorities manager at Scottish Enterprise said: “Mountain biking is so much more than a niche market for adrenalin-junkies. It offers the perfect social activity for families, an alternative day out for older couples, and an exciting new challenge for beginners. With Scotland’s market share predicted to grow significantly over the next five years, mountain biking is set to become firmly established as our most popular adventure activity after walking. The workshops therefore provide a fantastic opportunity for tourism businesses to get involved and grab their share.”
More information is found at www.developingmountainbikinginscotland.com
