The route takes you on an authentic rolling journey, whether you stay in small villages or sleep under the stars. See Israel up close, from the southern deserts through green forests to the northern coast.
Along the way: wildlife encounters, historic places, religious sites, interesting food and a deep connection to nature.
About 95% of the route runs on quality gravel roads for smooth continuous riding, with challenging climbs and huge daily satisfaction. After a long testing period by the riding community, we are proud to present version 1.0.
The route leaves Eilat and crosses Israel northwards to the Galilee: about 1,000 km, most of it on gravel roads. It starts in the wide-open Arava, with wind, heat and straight roads, then climbs into the Negev: craters, arid plateaus and long gravel roads on the way to Mitzpe Ramon.
After the desert the landscape starts to change. You climb into the Judean Hills, through pine forests, vineyards and ancient terraces, then cross the centre of the country on fast farm roads and rolling hills.
The north brings the long climbs: the hot Jordan Valley below sea level, the climb onto the Golan Heights, then the Upper Galilee with the highest point of the route and views of Mount Hermon. It finishes in the Galilee, among Mediterranean woodland, villages and winding dirt roads.
In the desert, plan water and food ahead. Beyond that, build your days around your own pace: stay in villages along the way or sleep under the stars.
We are out of beta, but things always change: new roads, fences and ploughed trails. Found a section that is not gravel-friendly? Email elad.bachar@gmail.com, message us on Facebook or post in the Telegram discussion group.
The Bontrager Betasso RSL GX TLR is the tyre we ride on the Gravel Edition, chosen after many kilometres on the route. The trail goes from loose desert gravel to packed dirt roads in the Galilee, and this tyre handles both ends. Grip on loose ground: the aggressive knob pattern gives control on gravel descents and steep desert climbs, where a smoother gravel tyre slides and loses traction. Toughness over a long trip: a 60 TPI casing with a protective layer and reinforced sidewalls cuts the risk of tears from flint and sharp rocks, the last thing you want deep in the Negev, far from a bike shop. Tubeless: run without a tube and with sealant, it seals most small holes on its own and lets you ride lower pressure for comfort and grip. Rolls well: despite the grip, the centre of the tyre rolls efficiently on fast roads, so you don't pay too much effort on the long stretches.
Bikepacking community members get 20% off.
Israeli companies that ride with us: they back our events, offer perks to community members and help bikepacking in Israel grow.
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