One of the first Partnership 2000 projects supported and progressed by the AAP (Arava Australia Partnership) group is the setting up and marketing of bicycle paths in the Arava. The project was proposed in light of the rapid development and increased popularity of cycling as a leisure activity, and its development as a specific niche in the tourism field. Due to the unique opportunities for cycling in the Arava and its particular suitability for bicycle, the Central Arava Regional Council is has worked intensively on the development of the bike paths that surround the settlements of the Council and intersect with each other, greatly assisted by the Partnership.

On the weekend of Dec. 19-20 the bike paths were formally launched with a series of outstanding events, attended by cycling enthusiasts from all over the country and from the region as well. The events were advertised in cycling magazines and websites, and many enthusiasts descended upon the Arava to take part, including a grandfather with three of his grandchildren, who came all the way from Tivon in the northern part of Israel (in the photo below).

The fun began on Friday morning with participants cycling one of the "badlands" routes through the marl gullies in the area of Edan and Hazeva, including part of the Peace Route along the Jordanian border.
 
In the evening the cyclists met at the Spice Route Inn where they were joined by Regional Council Head Ezra Ravins for a Kabbalat Shabbat and a sing-a-long activity. The following day was packed with activities, included cycling a variety of trails in the Spice Route area, lessons on bike riding and safety, a circle of drummers, and creative activities for children.

All of the events were free of cost, and shirts and hats bearing the logo of the Arava bike trails were available, as beautifully modeled in the photo below!