The descent of 4500 cyclists on Highland Perthshire for the Etape Caledonia will have long-lasting economic benefits for the area.
As well as the competitors, the latest run of the Etape Caledonia will bring friends, supporters and cycling fanatics almost all of whom are expected to pay a return visit later in the season.
Combined with the week-long Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival, it is thought that such events provide a £1m boon to the tourist industry as the area becomes a destination for enthusiasts year-round.
Perth and Kinross Council enterprise and infrastructure convener Councillor John Kellas said, “These events showcase what Highland Perthshire has to offer to the cycling community, and aim to entice them back to the area again and again.
“A survey on last year’s Etape showed that the event brought 7553 visitors to the area, 92% of whom came from outside Perth and Kinross, generating almost £1m for the local economy.”
Almost half the visitors came from outside Scotland and over 90% of participants stated they would return to Perthshire for a holiday.
Mr Kellas said Perthshire has some of the best cycle routes in Europe as well as a plethora of other activities.
He said, “The value of cycling tourism in the UK is estimated at £635m a year and we want to ensure that Highland Perthshire enjoys the full benefit from this growing sector.”
The cycling festival is well under way, with a host of local events leading up to Saturday’s Big Day in Aberfeldy.
Set to be opened by champion cyclist Graeme Obree, backers say it is shaping up to be Scotland’s biggest cycling festival and will include demonstrations, workshops and the chance to try alternative cycling styles.
Festival organiser Emma Burtles said, “This is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to have a go at cycling and to have fun with it.”