This project, funded by Leader, aims to develop cycling tourism and trails in the Karkkila, Lohja, and Vihti area. The goal is to create a new network of cycling routes in the region that will increase recreational opportunities and well-being for local residents and enhance the region’s appeal as a cycling destination.
The project will map the region’s current and potential cycling tourism routes, attractions, and points of interest, as well as services and activities that support cycling tourism. In addition, collaboration with various stakeholders will take place, for example, through workshops and a stakeholder survey. Based on the results of the surveys and collaboration, a new cycling tourism route network will be created for the region, spanning three municipalities, with enough to see and experience to fill several days of cycling. A logo—or route symbol—will be designed for the new route, along with a route brochure and a route video. The route will be added to the map services at https://www.bikeland.fi/reitit and https://www.luontoon.fi, as well as to other necessary map services and websites where recreational users and cycling tourists can easily find it.
By involving local entrepreneurs, the project will create a more cohesive cycling tourism network in the region and promote a cycling-friendly and sustainable model of operation to them. The project will run from June 2026 to December 2027.
The development project is managed and coordinated by the Vihti Municipality’s Business and Economic Development Services. In addition, the City of Lohja’s Tourism Services and the City of Karkkila’s Economic Development Services are working closely with Vihti to implement the project. Tapio Hartikainen, Project Manager for the Municipality of Vihti , is responsible for planning and leading the project. Questions regarding the project can be directed to him at: tapio.hartikainen@vihti.fi.
The project has received EU rural development funding from the Uusimaa Center for Vitality. The project’s total budget is €129,214.40, of which the EU contribution is €55,562.19, the state contribution is €36,709.33, and municipal funding from the Leader group is €6,942.88 (Ykkösakseli ry), amounting to 76.78% of the total costs.
