Cyclists Transforming Graz into Austria's Bicycle Hub: Uncovering a Community Built on Coffee, concerts, and Romance
In the heart of Graz, Austria, at 9:22 am sharp, Eva Berghofer, a bike-loving entrepreneur, propels open the door to Coffee Ride, a cozy little cafe that serves more than just coffee. This cycling hub, in a city known for its bike-friendliness, magnetizes caffeine-dependent commuters and social butterflies alike, where conversations flow over steamy lattes just as smoothly as wheels roll along cobblestone streets.
Graz, nicknamed Austria's second city, is on a mission to become something greater - Austria's bicycle capital. With an ambitious 100 million euros investment, the city is extending cycle paths, rolling out new cycling networks, and increasing infrastructure for the safety and convenience of its velo-commuters. This green initiative is balanced by the community spirit that runs deep in Graz, as locals embrace the two-wheel lifestyle.
"It's very cool to cycle here," says Eva, proprietor of Coffee Ride. "Here, it's like, you can do everything by cycling and by every weather - if we have one meter of snow, then I take the bus."
Coffee Ride symbolizes the community ethos of the city, where friendships brew as easily as the coffee. Eva hosts regular 'coffee rides' and is even dabbling in bike dating events to connect singles on casual, scenic bike rides. It's a unique twist on traditional romancing, not to mention an eco-friendly alternative.
The city's green credentials extend beyond its two-wheeled pursuits. Graz boasts electric trams, multiple farmers' markets, and a whopping 60% green spaces that you'll notice during a weekend visit. Yet, Graz isn't content with just vaunting its green accolades; it aspires to match, if not surpass them with a more human-powered future.
Beyond these official initiatives, the community is stepping up to create a more bicycle-friendly Graz. Mathis Huber, the Intendant of Styriaarte, explains that community underpins the city's development, and its citizens are actively giving their fellow residents an optimized two-wheel experience.
Transformation doesn't stop at cycling alone. The classical concerts that Graz is famous for are being reinvented as city cycling tours. Every summer, you can join a 'bike concert,' cycling to different locations while soaking in the sounds of one of Austria's most renowned festivals.
Then there's Velofood, the city's first sustainable delivery company, which operates solely on bicycles and uses biodegradable packaging. Born from innovation and a sense of community, Velofood has grown exponentially since its inception, now serving over 130 restaurants and employing 150 riders.
Graz seems to have found the perfect balance between modernity and tradition, sustainability and community. If you're planning a visit, don't miss the chance to indulge in the charming Old Town and join the city's slower rhythm. And who knows? You might just find love along one of Graz's many scenic bike routes.
- Eva Berghofer, the owner of Coffee Ride, not only offers food-and-drink but also organizes 'coffee rides' and bike dating events, embracing the two-wheel lifestyle that Graz promotes.
- Beyond cycling, Graz's community spirit is evident in its initiatives such as city cycling tours for classical concerts, showcasing a blend of entertainment and general-news.
- Velofood, the city's first sustainable delivery company, operates on bicycles and uses biodegradable packaging, demonstrating innovation in the food-and-drink sector.
- Graz, with its extensive green spaces, electric trams, and farmers' markets, aspires to be more than just Austria's bicycle capital; it aims to set an example in education-and-self-development, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable living and community development.
