As possibilidades e potencialidades do cicloturismo na região da Quarta Colônia, RS.

Abstract

Cycle tourism is an adventure tourism activity, which uses the bicycle as a means of transport and consists of a way of traveling that values the route taken. The purpose of this study is to verify the possibilities and the potentialities to develop this modality in the Quarta Colônia region of Rio Grande do Sul. This is an exploratory study, developed through bibliographic research and application of questionnaires with open and closed questions with cycle tourism practitioners who reside in Santa Maria, identifying the profile of the respondents and trying to understand the potentialities and weaknesses found in the region routes. The analysis of the responses shows that the majority of cyclists are men, aged between 30 and 39 years old and have cycled for less than three years. The most frequently mentioned needs are related to safety, lack of places for food and hydration and lack of information about the routes. After analyzing the results, the study concludes that there is potential in turning the region into a cycle tourism destination, since it has natural and cultural attractive that are of interest of the public who practices this activity. However, it is necessary investments and integration between the sectors involved.