The Success of the Cycle Tourist Backbone Along the Danube in Germany and Austria

The Danube Bicycle Trail consists of several sections which are in different stages of development across Europe, from Germany to Bulgaria/Romania at the Black Sea. The best developed and historically best-documented sections are in Germany and Austria. These can be models for bicycle tourism in other regions. Based on the historical development of the western Danube Bicycle Trail, also known as EuroVelo No. 6, this article presents important basic and advanced requirements for successful bicycle tourism. In the case of the Danube Trail the basic conditions for touristic success already existed, when in the 1980s forward-looking tourism managers and planners at local and regional levels determinedly took steps towards developing the region. Retrospectively, branded touristic routes like the Danube Bicycle Trail assisted in conserving regional ecosystems and heritage, while at the same time opening economic opportunities for local businesses and generating jobs. For continuous success constant improvements to safeguard a leading position as an outstanding tourism region are necessary. Other regions seeking to emulate the accomplishments of the Danube Trail should also highlight their specific heritage and natural assets.