Cycling in Israel
As biking has grown in popularity Israel in recent years, cycle paths have spread across the country.
Off road cycle tracks cross the country by Flickr user Tierecke
Cycling is a great way to see Israel. With a comprehensive selection of cycling routes in rural and urban areas, on and off road, it is also practical. And, its set to get better with a National Cycle Trail set to run from Metulla in the north to Eilat in the south currently under construction.
On road biking by Flickr user Ron Almog
Israel is criss crossed by bicycle paths which have grown as the sport has grown in popularity. In Tel Aviv, biking has become a popular means of getting around the city, and across Israel, biking on designated paths has become a popular hobby. Hundreds of bike clubs have sprung up from the Galilee in the north, across the Carmel ridge, into the Coastal plain, and in the hills near Jerusalem, among other places.
On Saturday mornings, the roads are scattered with cars carrying bicycle racks as clubs meet up for their weekly rides. It isnt neccessary to join a club, however, to enjoy cycling through Israel. Bikes can be rented relatively easily across the country, often at the site of the ride. All of Israel is mapped at a 1:50,000 scale for off road navigation, although they are generally only available in Hebrew. You can get around this issue by joining up with a group or club or going with a guide. Most Israeli Mountain Bike Guides have completed a special training program at the Wingate Academy, Israel’s top sports school.
Biking in the Golan by Flickr user Gaspa
Image by Flickr user RonAlmog
Just so that you know, bicycle helmets are required by law in Israel and, although water is not, it is equally important. Make sure you have plenty especially if you are biking through rural areas. In case you aren’t driving in Israel, it is possible to take bikes on buses for 50% extra, so there are no excuses!
You should also know that El Al give extra weight to cyclists of about 22kg for bikes and gear, kind of handy as they are the biggest airline flying to Israel.
Further information on routes
- Cycling around the Sea of Galilee takes a few hours and is perfect for most levels
- The Israel National Trail offers routes for all levels of varying lengths
[...] Trail isn’t just for walkers though, parts are suitable for off-road vehicles, as well as bikes- the Israel National Bike Trail is currently under [...]
Last year the Israeli Government allocated $5.4 million for the furtherance of cycling tourism. The funds will be directed towards the development of the project and the construction of bicycle paths in the most interesting tourist areas. Under the plan, bicycle paths, equipped in the cities will be connected with routes to rural areas. Over the next few year 1200 kilometers of tracks will be built from north to south of the country.
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