New long-distance cycling route added to EuroVelo network

Europe is being united by bicycles thanks to the massive EuroVelo network of 17 long-distance cycling routes crisscrossing the continent. One of the latest is the EuroVelo 5 Via Romea (Francigena) cycle route.

EuroVelo 5 runs from Canterbury in the United Kingdom to Brindisi in southern Italy via Brussels covering a whopping 3,200 kilometers. It winds its way through seven countries along 21 UNESCO sites. The route takes cyclists through the heart of the EU institutions along the famous Rue de la Loi (Wetstraat) and connects the EU seats of Luxembourg and Strasbourg.

“The EuroVelo network is a one-of-a-kind initiative bringing together the local, regional, national and European dimensions through cycling routes across the continent,” said Walter Goetz, Head of Cabinet for Adina Vălean, European Commissioner for Transport. “From commuting to tourism, the EuroVelo network contributes to healthier and more sustainable mobility in Europe and symbolizes an essential aspect of the European Green Deal.”

In a Europe that focuses increasingly on sustainable modes of transport, routes like EuroVelo 5 are growing in importance and provide a backbone to much denser national, regional and local networks.

It’s also an incredible opportunity to grow bicycle tourism throughout Europe. Looking to plan a two-wheeled holiday? What better way to see Europe than by travelling to multiple countries via this network of safe cycling routes. It’s something that has begun in North America, but Europe is really setting a high bar for achievement in this regard.

In addition, the massive investments in cycling infrastructure in cities throughout Europe are really game-changing.

“In cities like Brussels, cycling has enormous potential as one of the easiest, most sustainable, and cost-efficient ways to get around town. Our guiding principle for cycling infrastructure since we started in 2019 has been “build it and they will come,” said Elke Van den Brandt, Brussels Minister for Mobility. “And they have: the number of cyclists is booming in Brussels. These international routes give our cyclists the opportunity to taste the freedom of cycling across borders, connecting them with fellow Europeans.”

For more information or to play your trip on EuroVelo check out the website.