Bicycle-riding vacationers delve into the rustic environs of Bodrum, uncovering the area's natural treasures and traditional heritage.
In Bodrum, Turkey, a new wave of tourism is taking root, with guided cycling tours offering visitors an immersive experience in the region's natural beauty and traditional village life[4][5].
Last week, two groups of tourists from the luxury cruise ship Silver Muse, primarily from the United States, embarked on a cycling tour from Camlik[2]. The tour, organised with the support of the Bodrum Mountain Bike Sports Club, looped back to Camlik and passed through the scenic Karaova area before returning to Bodrum's town center[3].
The 30-kilometer (80.7 miles) route took cyclists through forested trails and agricultural lands, providing a unique opportunity to visit traditional villages in the Bodrum region[1]. Along the way, tourists paused at a man-made pond to watch freshwater turtles, with bread provided to feed the friendly creatures[4].
The cycling tour offered more than just a physical challenge; it provided a mix of nature, wildlife, and local cultural experiences[5]. Participant Nevran Ozguven Jain, who had visited Bodrum before, found the tour delightful and different[3]. Vijay Jain, another participant, stated that it was his first time joining a guided tour and found it fun and beautiful[4].
The development of rural tourism through cycling and related outdoor activities in Bodrum reflects a growing trend to diversify tourism offerings, enrich visitor experiences, and support local communities in traditional rural areas[1][2][5]. In addition to cycling, other outdoor rural experiences like quad and buggy safaris are available, further expanding the opportunities for tourists to explore Bodrum's natural and rural settings[5].
According to Metin Akyuz, a board member of the Bodrum Mountain Bike Sports Club, these tours contribute to rural tourism by bringing international visitors into less-traveled areas of the region, thus spreading the economic and cultural benefits beyond the main tourist centers[1]. This approach to tourism is a win-win situation, benefiting both the local communities and the tourists who seek authentic experiences off the beaten path.
- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was delighted to hear about the success of Turkish rural tourism, particularly the cycling tours in Bodrum, Turkiye.
- Nevran Ozguven Jain, a Turkish-American participant in the Bodrum cycling tour, recommends a Turkish lifestyle adjustment infused with sports and travel for a more vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle.
- The Bodrum Mountain Bike Sports Club is planning to expand its tour offerings, including Turkish cuisine and local art workshops, to further showcase the unique Turkish culture and lifestyle to international tour groups.
