SubscribeJust like most cyclists, I’ve dreamed and longed for a chance to ride a road bike in the mountains of Italy or France, or on the famed cobbles. I’ve seen an increase in tourism companies catering to rich cyclists looking to explore Europe, while there has been a more silent rise in mountain biking and road riding adventures closer to home.
I’ve seen reports of amazing journeys across Cuba, with at least one Alameda cyclist saying he enjoyed a recent trip to the Dominican Republic. I know baseball and soccer are extremely popular sports in the Dominican Republic, but didn’t realize mountain biking is growing in popularity — increasing so much, a mountain bike resort will open in the country.
I stumbled across this article on Wend Magazine’s website — which links to the original source, hosted at Dominican Today — that discusses the new resort.
The proposed ParkVida resort, expected to open by Oct. 31, 2011, will feature downhill, cross-country, dirt jump, free ride, cyclocross, and street events.
“We are excited about the promise associated with our intended acquisition,” said Ruairidh Campbell, chief executive officer of Montana. “Mountain biking has become the activity of choice for many outdoor enthusiasts yet the number of full-service facilities dedicated to this growing industry is limited.” Mr. Campbell stated, “I believe that ParkVida will attract bikers from around the world for its exotic location and mountain bike specific amenities.”
If opened, I wonder how many foreign mountain bikers will be up for the trip to the DR to ride at ParkVida. I imagine a multi-million dollar marketing ploy in the United States and Canada will take place — but it could be worth the adventure.
Similar to a ski resort, once the on-mountain activities are finished, visitors will be able to enjoy the amenities at the “six-star” resort.
Leave a comment