Why E-Bike Charging Stations at Restaurants and Other Hospitality Businesses Are Essential for the Future of E-Cycling

…and how I know this from personal experience.

E-biking is growing rapidly across Slovenia and Europe. Electric assistance gives riders freedom — the freedom to go farther, climb higher and enjoy cycling without limits. But this freedom often disappears because of one simple concern: the battery.

Charging stations do exist, but information about them is still scattered, outdated or missing entirely. This challenge is familiar to many e-cyclists — locals and international visitors alike.

Slovenia, the focus of this article, is not just another European cycling destination. It is the home of some of the world’s greatest cyclists, including Tadej Pogačar, Primož Roglič and Matej Mohorič. The valleys, vineyards, alpine passes and forest roads where they trained as children are now open to cyclists from all over the world. For many cycling enthusiasts, visiting Slovenia means riding the very routes that shaped global champions.

And as more international tourists come to experience these legendary paths, reliable e-bike charging infrastructure becomes essential — both for everyday riders and for those exploring Slovenia’s world-class cycling terrain.

A Personal Experience: When Only One Bar Remains

Imagine a perfect day for a ride. I set off on my e-bike, enjoying the smooth assistance that lets me explore new routes. But halfway up a hill, my display shows just one remaining bar — that familiar signal every e-cyclist immediately recognises.

Since there are no visible charging stations on the route, I do what most riders do — I Google it. But the results are often incomplete or inaccurate.

So, like many e-cyclists, I rely on the most common solution:

I look for the nearest restaurant, café or mountain hut and hope the owner will allow me to charge the battery — and that a free power socket is even available.

Many times, this worked. But I always felt like I was solving a problem instead of enjoying the ride.

Why Restaurants, Cafés and Guesthouses? The Data Confirms What E-Cyclists Feel

Restaurants, cafés and guesthouses are the most logical stops for e-cyclists:

• comfortable resting spots,

• safe and visible bike placement,

• food, drinks and shade,

• existing electrical infrastructure.

International providers and tourism researchers support this:

• Bike-energy reports that e-cyclists stay longer and spend more during charging.

• The hospitality sector sees increased visits, longer dwell time and stronger sustainable branding.

• Tourism analyses show that most new charging stations are installed near restaurants, cafés and accommodation providers.

Restaurants and cafés are a natural “resting point” — for the rider and for the battery.

While the e-bike is charging, the cyclist can:

• enjoy a coffee,

• have a meal,

• take a break,

• appreciate the surroundings,

• and keep their bike in sight at all times.

Meanwhile, the hospitality provider benefits from:

• increased footfall,

• longer guest visits,

• higher spending,

• positioning as an e-bike friendly venue,

• better visibility on cycling maps and digital platforms.

It’s a mutually beneficial relationship — and a strategic advantage.

What Makes a Good E-Bike Charging Station for Hospitality Businesses?

1. Clear and Visible Signage

A charging station must be easy to spot — on the building, near roads and in digital maps.

2. Safe and Visible Parking

Cyclists want to keep an eye on their bikes. Terraces, windows or outdoor seating are ideal.

3. Certified and Weather-Protected Equipment

A good station includes robust connectors, rain protection, electrical safety and the ability to secure the bike.

4. Integration in Digital Maps and Apps

If it’s not visible online, many cyclists will never find it. The upcoming Zyflow app will solve this by offering the most complete map of e-bike charging infrastructure in Slovenia.

Best Practice Examples in Slovenia

Mega Bar – Večeslavci 6, 9262 Rogašovci (Furmil)

A pioneer of e-bike infrastructure in the Goričko region. A perfect stop on the way to Sotinski breg (Kugl).

Nearby route: ➡ Pomurje Cycling Route: https://visitpomurje.eu/kolesarite/pomurska-kolesarska-pot

Vinska Fontana Marezige – Marezige 24, 6273 Marezige (Napolni e-bike)

A top attraction in Slovenian Istria, now extended with an e-bike charging station. Food available at Gostilna Karjola across the road.

Nearby route: ➡ Refošk Cycling Route: https://visitkoper.si/znamenitosti/kolesarske-poti-s-kolesom-po-dezeli-refoska-k1

Kavarna S – Luče 6, 3334 Luče (Smart-digital)

Part of the bike-friendly Guesthouse S with GHOST e-bike rentals and smart charging benches.

Nearby route: ➡ Cycling in Luče: https://visitluce.si/kaj-poceti/kolesarjenje/

Gostilna Špindler – Jakobski dol 9, 2231 Pernica

A popular stop along the scenic Pesnica Cycling Route.

Nearby route: ➡ Pesnica Cycling Route: https://www.visitmaribor.si/si/kaj-poceti/poti/2320-pesniska-kolesarska-pot

A Call to Restaurants, E-Cyclists and Charging Station Manufacturers

We aim to build the most complete and accurate map of e-bike infrastructure in Slovenia, benefiting tourism, everyday mobility and the entire cycling community.

We invite contributions from:

Restaurants, cafés, guesthouses and accommodation providers

Please share:

• your charging station’s exact location,

• photos,

• a description of how it works,

• whether charging is free,

• visibility of bikes from the terrace,

• your experience with e-cyclists.

E-Cyclists

Please contribute:

• places where you have charged,

• issues you encountered,

• ideas for improvement,

• photos of best practices.

Manufacturers of E-Bike Charging Stations

Please provide:

• technical specifications,

• installation guidelines,

• lists of existing installations,

• case studies and field insights,

• IoT and safety features,

basic price ranges.

Zyflow: Our Mission and Vision

Zyflow is being developed with one clear purpose:

To make e-biking safer, easier and fully supported by reliable information.

We are creating a connected digital ecosystem where e-cyclists can find:

• charging locations,

• secure parking spots,

• service points,

• real user insights and infrastructure data

  — all in one place.

Your contributions help us: 

• identify infrastructure gaps, 

• highlight best practice locations, 

• support tourism and hospitality, 

• give e-cyclists peace of mind on every ride.

Together, we can make Europe one of the most e-bike-friendly regions in the world.