The clearest message comes from Finale Ligure, where the bear is actually dancing on the trails in March: "Now we all have to get through these difficult times, and everyone can help to get this over with as quickly as possible by taking on a single task: Stay at home!" These are extraordinary statements from the tourism industry. Similar voices are coming from South Tyrol. The measures to contain the spread of the virus are drastic but necessary, says Michaela Zingerle from the Südtirol Bike Hotels. Uncertainty, ignorance and therefore panic are much more dangerous and would do more harm to society than these temporary restrictions. Hotels in Italy must remain closed until April 3rd. Several establishments have already postponed the start of the season until the end of April.

Outwardly, people are currently showing composure and motivating people to persevere. But appearances are deceptive and nerves are frayed in many cases. This is shown by various Facebook comments from hoteliers and bike guides. Anyone who questions the tough measures against the virus will hear something in no uncertain terms. Not surprising really, as the situation is economically dangerous. This is illustrated by statements from Massimo Ferro, the man behind Aosta Valley Freeride: "We haven't received any booking inquiries for more than two weeks. It could be that this will remain the case until at least mid-April." In other words, the tour operator's core business is effectively dead at the moment. Ferro hopes that, in a positive scenario, at least something can be salvaged in the months from July onwards. In the worst-case scenario, the virus would become a global pandemic and the global economy would be completely blocked. The tourism sector would be among the first to be affected. Despite these difficult prospects, Ferro is not resentful of the measures: "I believe that these recent decisions are necessary to prevent the spread of the virus."

A concentrated load of positivism also comes from Ernesto Hutmacher from Massa Marrittima. "We have a positive attitude and are not panicking. I'm also sure that this situation will pass sooner or later - and then we'll be ready to welcome guests again." In the meantime, the Massa Vecchia is repainting the building, renovating the bathrooms and preparing for the next "opening". And if possible, they will build a skills park and maintain the trails during this time. This is called pragmatism, and there is no sign of panic among Italian mountain bike providers - even if they have every reason to be at the moment.