Evolution of Cycle Tourism in São Pedro de Alcântara: expansion of the circuit and diversification of routes. 

About the case

Project context 

São Pedro de Alcântara Cycling Circuit It was created with the goal of enhancing the rural landscapes of the municipality, stimulating active tourism, and structuring cycle tourism as an organized, safe, and integrated tourism product within the territory. 

After the implementation of the first section (2024) — already signposted, publicized and incorporated into the municipality's tourism strategy — the need arose, collaboratively between the local management group, public authorities and Girus Soluções em Turismo, through SEBRAE, to expand the circuit, expanding its reach and making it more inclusive for different types of cyclists. 

The expansion of the circuit stemmed from a clear premise: to offer routes with varying levels of difficulty., capable of serving everyone from beginner cyclists and families to more experienced riders, strengthening São Pedro de Alcântara as a regional cycling tourism destination. 

Objective of the expansion 

The creation of two new sections had the following main objectives: 

  • Diversify the difficulty levels of the circuit, expanding the audience served; 
  • To make bicycle touring more accessible to beginners, families, and occasional cyclists; 
  • To promote rural areas, historic roads, and natural landscapes that are still relatively unexplored by tourism; 
  • To consolidate the circuit as a structured, continuous, and fully signposted product; 
  • Strengthen the involvement of the local management group in project governance. 

New structured sections 

Vila Hoffmann Circuit 

With 22.62 km long e 477 meters of accumulated elevation gain, The Vila Hoffmann Circuit was planned to cater to cyclists of intermediate level, offering a challenging yet contemplative experience. 

The route traverses old rural roads, preserved forest areas, and regions of strong historical and cultural value, connecting cyclists with the identity of the territory. The route combines sections of moderate physical exertion with landscapes that reinforce the rural and authentic character of São Pedro de Alcântara. 

Just like the original circuit, the route is fully signposted, ensuring safety, guidance and autonomy for users. 

Dona Domingas Ranch Circuit 

Designed to democratize access to cycle tourism, the Estância Dona Domingas Circuit has... 7.9 km long and only 98 meters of accumulated elevation, being classified as easy level

It's the ideal option for: 

  • Beginners in bicycle touring; 
  • Families with children; 
  • Visitors looking for a short, easy bike ride that's integrated with nature; 
  • People who want to experience the territory without demanding too much physically. 

The route is quick, peaceful, and surrounded by natural landscapes, reinforcing cycle tourism as a leisure activity, promoting well-being and connecting with the rural environment. Like the others, this circuit also features... complete signage

Launch and mobilization event 

To officially mark the delivery of the two new sections, an event was held on the day November 23, 2025 the event “Rad Fest II Pedal”, focusing on the dissemination and practical experience of the new circuits.

The event was organized entirely by the circuit's management group, demonstrating the strengthening of local governance and the engagement of the cycling community. The action brought together more than 100 registered, establishing itself as an important moment for activating the tourism product and validating the new routes. 

In addition to promoting sport and leisure, the event reinforced São Pedro de Alcântara as a destination prepared to receive cyclists, with infrastructure, organization, and well-defined routes. 

Results and impacts 

The expansion of the São Pedro de Alcântara Cycling Circuit has generated direct and strategic impacts for the municipality: 

  • Inclusion of new cyclist profiles in the tourism product; 
  • Strengthening active tourism as a local development strategy; 
  • Increased length of stay and circulation of visitors in the municipality; 
  • Consolidation of a diverse, safe, and well-signposted circuit; 
  • Strengthening the performance of the management group and collaborative governance. 

The role of Girus Soluções em Turismo 

Girus Tourism Solutions It acted strategically in supporting the structuring of the circuit, contributing to the planning and organization of the tourism product and strengthening cycle tourism as a policy for sustainable territorial development. 

The project reinforces Girus's vision that Well-planned tourism is a tool for inclusion, enhancing the value of the territory, and generating opportunities., especially in municipalities with a strong rural identity and preserved natural landscapes. 

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