Expanding the EuroVelo Route Inspector Pool across BAB Partner Countries - Insights from the EuroVelo Route Inspectors Training

Representatives from four of the six partner organizations involved in the Bike Across the Baltic (BAB) project recently participated in the EuroVelo Route Inspector Training held in Brussels on April 9-10. Turku University of Applied Sciences from Finland, City Bike from Estonia, Cyclefrämjandet from Sweden, and Pomorskie Tourism Organization from Poland sent delegates to enhance their understanding of EuroVelo routes, augment the pool of route inspectors, and familiarize themselves with the European Certification Standard (ECS).

The European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) hosted the first day of the training, providing an overview of the ECS theory. The training format was dynamic, featuring a blend of lectures, group exercises, field trips, and individual assessments. Engaging discussions among the diverse group of over 30 participants and trainers centered on essential infrastructure, services, and effective communication for developing high-quality cycling routes. Hearing perspectives and challenges from various countries and regions regarding cycling tourism was particularly enlightening. The theoretical knowledge was put into practice through a workshop conducted at the end of the day.

Getting Hands-On with the ECS Survey App

The practical aspect awaited the participants on the second day as they embarked on a cycling tour from Halle to Brussels. During this excursion, ECF staff demonstrated the real-world application of the EuroVelo route inspection app. Participants also had the opportunity to practice using the app individually, gaining valuable insights into the responsibilities of a route inspector in the field.

Upon completion of the training, all participating BAB partners were awarded certificates, signifying enhanced competence in promoting EuroVelo routes within their respective countries and regions. Productive discussions with ECF also took place regarding the requirements for EuroVelo routes and the potential establishment of National EuroVelo Coordination Centers (NCC) in Baltic Sea Region countries lacking them. With Finland’s prior experience in hosting an NCC through BikeLand, the National center for cycling tourism, the BAB partnership stands well-positioned to advocate for the expansion of the NCC network. While developing top-tier cycling routes and establishing NCCs demand considerable effort from partner regions and countries, the consortium is now better prepared to advance this endeavor. The next phase for the BAB project involves utilizing these certifications to begin assessing the EuroVelo 10 route across different segments in Finland, Estonia, Poland, and Sweden.

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