Bicycle enthusiasts gathered in Kandıra for the 4th Kocaeli Tourism and Bicycle Festival, which aims to promote the natural tourism routes of Kocaeli. With 350 cyclists coming together in Kandıra, the festival seeks to showcase the walking and cycling trails of Kocaeli and extend tourism throughout all four seasons. Scheduled to conclude with a closing ceremony on September 15th, the festival is a collaborative effort between the Governorship, Kandıra Municipality, and Kocaeli Bicycle Platform.
The Festival Kick-Off
The festival’s opening ceremony yesterday saw the participation of various notable figures, including Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Deputy Mayor Berna Abiş, Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Culture and Social Affairs Department President Murat Yavuz, Kandıra Mayor Erol Ölmez, and Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Fatih Taşdelen. A total of 350 cyclists from 25 cities in Turkey, as well as Germany, Bulgaria, and Albania, joined the event to celebrate the beauty of Kocaeli and Kandıra.
Exploring the Routes
The cyclists staying in tents and caravans at Kerpe Ömerağzı campsite embarked on their first route towards Kerpe Kartalkayalar. As the sun set, they rode through Kerpe amidst applause from the local residents and vacationers, creating a memorable experience for all involved. Today, the cyclists will shift their focus to the Cebeci-Babalı route, where they will pedal in solidarity with Palestinian children. Displaying a unified stance against the injustices faced by Palestinians, the cyclists adorned their bikes with wind roses in honor of the children in Palestine.
Upcoming Events
In the coming days, the festival will continue with a ride from Kerpe to Sarısu, Kandıra center, and Akçakoca Anıt Mezarı. This event aims to further promote the walking and cycling trails of Kocaeli and encourage tourism throughout the year. With the closing ceremony set for September 15th, attendees can look forward to a memorable conclusion to the festival.
By showcasing the natural beauty and tourism potential of Kocaeli, the 4th Kocaeli Tourism and Bicycle Festival serves as a platform for cyclists to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and foster a sense of community among enthusiasts from various backgrounds. As the festival continues to attract participants from both local and international communities, it highlights the importance of sustainable tourism and outdoor recreation in preserving the environment and promoting healthy lifestyles.