(CS) The Danish and Dutch embassies to Luxembourg joined forces with the City of Luxembourg to promote cycling in the capital at this year's Fête du Vélo.

The cycling festival saw parts of the capital blocked for motorists on Sunday, leaving cyclists to roam free on the streets. With the sun making a long-awaited appearance, the fair on the Place de la Constitution drew crowds of locals and tourists.

Information on cycling, bicycle safety and more was available at some 50 stalls. Additionally, the square hosted an exhibition of strange bikes, a training course and more family activities. Live entertainment, food and drink were of course also provided.

“Both Denmark and the Netherlands are countries where cycling is very popular,” said Dutch ambassador Eduard Hoeks. “Even the Queen in Holland rides her bike.” The advantages for Hoeks are clear: “A bike ride a day keeps the doctor away,” he said. “Cycling is healthy, it's green, it helps reduce CO2 emissions and we want to support the City's efforts.”

Getting into the habit of cycling

But while Luxembourg has produced some first-class athlete cyclists, many residents are still hesitant to join traffic on two wheels.

“You have to feel safe,” said Danish ambassador Louise Bang Jespersen, pointing out the City's progress in creating bicycle lanes and promoting cycling.

Jespersen added: “I think it's also a question of habit and getting a critical mass. When you see other people on their bikes you're inspired to do the same thing.”

On that note, City mayor Xavier Bettel, mobility alderman François Bausch and Sustainable Development Minister Claude Wiseler showed the way on Sunday, joining both ambassadors on a bike tour through the City centre.