Starting with its landscapes, Montenegro has the best prerequisites to become Europe’s cycling and hiking destination No. 1 in the whole Mediterranean. The country between the sea and the high mountains has therefore been investing in the setup and upgrade of infrastructure and is carefully making its outstanding nature beauties accessible for nature-loving active holiday-makers. This task will be continued in 2011.
An official tourism development strategy is in operation until 2020, including regulations for a sustainable planning policy. By now, Montenegro has a countrywide network of 6000 km of cycling paths that are signposted better each day and that is built and maintained by numerous local players and international partner organizations like the German GIZ. Only original shepherd’s trails, traditionally explored hiking paths and historical trade routes and trails were used. Apart from attractive first glance hiking ideas, Montenegro’s Tourism Office provides another general map with five of the most attractive circular bicycle tours, which can be downloaded directly from the web site. Moreover, there is a road book „Montenegro Wilderness Biking“ for 1700 km mountain-bike trails, approved by professionals, with exact profiles and detailed descriptions of 17 spectacular tours.
As part of the diversification strategy, the „Montenegro Bed & Bike“ seal of approval was introduced last year, a good example for the successful integration of local suppliers: after the trail network for cyclists and mountain bikers had taken shape, the people in charge initiated a service network of hosts specialized in accommodating cyclists. Meanwhile, 20 offerers have met the quality standards of the German Bicyclist Club (ADFC). The lodging houses for cyclists are strategically well placed along all the „top trails“. Most of these private inns, guesthouses and hotels engage well beyond the ADFC standards: they offer their guests additional services like jersey cleaning free of charge or reservation and baggage transfer to the next lodging.
For further information see www.montenegro.travel.