Welcome to the Danube by Bike Tour 2009 . The Tour was an initiative of the European Commission, Directorate-General for Enlargement who was also the main sponsor, in cooperation with the European Cyclists Federation. The practical organisation was entrusted to Media Consulta.
Cyclists from all over Europe (EU member states, Western Balkan countries and Turkey), regardless of experience, were being invited to join the first European Bike Tour along the Danube which took place from 23 June to 27 June 2009. Participation in the Tour and accommodation during the Tour were free.
The Tour followed the European Danube Cycling track leading participants through five countries including Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. For logistical reasons, the Tour was limited to some 400 participants. In order to allow participants to make their planning in good time registration was on a first come first served basis, ensuring homogeneous participation of different countries. One of the aims of the project was to have balanced groups of people from different countries.
The Danube by Bike Tour 2009 was an opportunity to bring people from all over Europe (EU member states, Western Balkan countries and Turkey) together to encourage integration and dialogue between people, whilst raising awareness of the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Europe. The River Danube is often referred to as the "Queen of European Rivers" and is a strong symbol for Europe in its diversity of cultures and nations. The Tour reinforced the importance of taking joined action to protect the unique Danube eco-system. The Danube by Bike Tour was open to everyone who likes cycling, cares about the environment and wanted to make new friends throughout Europe.
Participants of the Tour were able to choose between two different routes.
Route 1 started in Budapest, Hungary following the famous Danube-Drava National Park. After crossing the border to Croatia, riders will made their way to Osijek and then joined an entertaining event in Vukovar. The Tour passed Novi Sad before making its final journey to Belgrade, Serbia.
Route 2 travelled from Bucharest via Bechet to Orjahovo, crossing the Romanian-Bulgarian border. In Bulgaria, they cycled to the beautiful city Vidin, where they celebrated with the local population in a special event. The group passed the impressive Iron Gate which connects Romania and Serbia, before finally heading to Belgrade.
On 27 June the two groups came together to celebrate the end of the Tour in a public event in the heart of Serbia’s capital at "Usce" near the famous Kalemegdan fortress.
