On June 30, more than 80 professionals from across the Netherlands gathered in Amersfoort for the networking event “Space for Recreational Cycling,” organized by Tour de Force and Fietsplatform. For Dutch Cycling Week, this is exactly the kind of conversation we want to foster: how do we ensure that the bicycle, in all its forms, plays a bigger role in people’s lives—not as separate topics for commuting or recreation, but as a single, cohesive narrative.
Recreational and everyday cycling: two sides of the same coin
Tour de Force is committed to better and safer cycling policies in a broad sense, while Fietsplatform focuses specifically on recreational cycling, routes, and the cycling experience. The afternoon demonstrated just how much can be gained at the intersection of these two worlds. That is precisely the idea behind Dutch Cycling Week: the bicycle is not merely an addition to the streetscape, but the starting point—for both commuters and recreational cyclists.
Several topics discussed at the meeting directly address areas where Utrecht leads the way as a cycling region. Jeroen van Noort (Routebureau Utrecht) explained how the renewal of Utrecht’s bicycle junction network successfully combines recreational and utilitarian interests, with fewer signs, lower management costs, and a calmer street scene. Furthermore, research by Decisio, commissioned by RVO, showed that cycling tourism generates approximately 3.6 billion euros in economic value for the Netherlands each year, driven by safe infrastructure, varied landscapes, and short distances between destinations.
The presentations on ferries, a national mountain bike pass, and spreading out cyclists in the municipality of Ede also made it clear that good recreational infrastructure never stands alone: it’s about space, funding, nature, and quality of life all at once. In the regional workshops, focused on the run-up to the 2027 Provincial Council elections, traffic safety, high-quality cycling infrastructure, and the social value of cycling repeatedly emerged as shared priorities. This is precisely the message that Dutch Cycling Week aims to promote all year round: hop on your bike—for your health, for the environment, and for fun.
Next Up: EuroVelo & Cycling Tourism Conference 2026 in Utrecht
If, after reading this recap, you’d like to learn more about recreational cycling and bike routes, you don’t have to look far. From September 30 through October 2, 2026, Utrecht will host the EuroVelo & Cycling Tourism Conference, the premier international trade event for EuroVelo, cycling tourism, and route networks. More than 400 industry participants—from destination managers and policymakers to tour operators and accommodation providers—will gather at the Supernova Conference Center at Jaarbeurs Utrecht.
The main theme, “At the beating heart of cycling,” ties in seamlessly with what was discussed in Amersfoort. The program builds on three themes already touched upon at the networking event, but with an international perspective. “Multi-purpose cycle route networks” explores the interplay between daily cycling, recreational cycling, and cycle tourism on the same route network—exactly the issue Dutch provinces are currently grappling with. “Stronger Together” examines collaboration between public and private sectors to grow cycling tourism, a theme that also emerged in Ede and during the discussion on commercial functions along LF routes. And “Innovation for More and Better Cycling (Tourism)” highlights digital innovation and marketing to make cycling tourism more attractive.
In addition to keynotes, parallel sessions, and an extensive exhibition, the program for Friday, October 2, includes technical bike tours in and around Utrecht, featuring insights into bike tourism, routes, infrastructure, and recreational cycling in the region. This is a great opportunity for Dutch Cycling Week: the conference puts our city and province in the international spotlight—showcasing what we demonstrate all year round—while also providing new insights and connections to build upon.
Want to learn more about the conference or about sponsorship and exhibition opportunities? Visit euroveloconference.com.
