Rovaniemi by Bike: Sustainable Urban Development

Summer Tourism needs a boost in Lapland

Cycling is growing in Finland and internationally, and in Lapland its importance is particularly emphasized in the development of summer tourism. Rovaniemi is known for winter tourism, but the opportunities of the summer season, such as cycling, have not yet been fully exploited.
 
Information related to cycling routes is scattered, poorly accessible and poorly productized for tourists. The “Rovaniemi by Bike” project responds to this problem by compiling, digitizing and productizing at least three cycling routes in Rovaniemi. The goal is to make the routes easy to find, clear and accessible through multiple digital channels.

In Rovaniemi in 2025, cycling route information is still distributed among several different service providers, and there is no proper route package with additional information about the services available. Tourists and locals do not have easy and centralized access to route information and the services along them, as they are distributed across different platforms. In this project, FrostBit is developing and piloting an operating model in which Rovaniemi’s cycling routes and local services can be compiled in an easily accessible, digital format.

This will be implemented in the project by collecting comprehensive data packages from at least three cycling routes in the Rovaniemi area and compiling route maps from them. The package will collect map and technical information related to the routes, as well as high-end marketing materials about the routes and the services along them.

The route maps will be piloted in the project on a separate pilot website and existing outdoor route platforms. In addition, during the project, an instruction brochure on the digitalization of routes and a webinar on the projecting of outdoor routes will be arranged.

PROJECT

Rovaniemi by Bike – Digital Routes and Experiences

SCHEDULE

1.1.2026 – 30.4.2027

BUDGET

99 916 €

CONTACT PERSON

Mikko Pajula

The project generates regional development value by renewing the presentation and marketing of cycling routes and related services. The measures will benefit local operators and residents as well as tourists from outside the region, which will also boost summer tourism in Lapland.

The project brings together operators from the fields of sports, tourism and technology and creates practical models for the development of cycling tourism and improved accessibility. It is hoped that the solutions developed will strengthen the visibility of Rovaniemi and Lapland and their applicability to other municipalities.