Israel plans cycle route between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv - Israel plans to build a cycle trail linking the cities of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv as a potential tourist attraction, the Yediot Ahronot newspaper reported Tuesday.

The 120-kilometre trail, passing through several forests and include several vantage points and restaurants, is to become operational in less than six months, according to the report.

The project is being funded by the Jewish National Fund to the tune of around 475,000 dollars to mark 60 years since Israel was founded.

"This trail will become an international tourist attraction for cyclists," fund chairman Efi Stenzler said. It would also take cyclists along historic sites. Professional cyclists would make the journey - depending on whether it is the uphill or downhill leg - in five to nine hours.

In recent years, Israel has been experiencing a bicycle boom, particularly in Tel Aviv, with a growing number of bicycle paths being added to streets.

A cycle trains runs around the Sea of Galilee in the north of the country. (dpa)