Wayne interesting I've heard there is really good riding in Germany..
I write this on my last evening away on my break. I am in a sweet cafe looking over the beach and sea. All a bit idylic and a little sad to becoming home which must be a sign of a good holiday. (WIFI is everywhere and free here)
Today's last ride was hosted by the Clyclenix club (
http://www.cyclenix.com/) of Tel Aviv way. The IMBA Israel (Jack Reardon) hooked me up.
We set off at 5.45 this morning when a great new friend and rider Hylton picked me up and by 8.30 we were riding a 35k trail in the Carmel Mountains and forest next to Haifa overlooking the sea.

Lots of up and lots of down. The contrast to the Negev desert with rolling green hills was just as captivating. Rocky at times but sweet and flowing terrain overall. I can not do the ride justice in a forum post so I will blog in the next few days. Great club, great attitude. One of their riders David is 71 and Hylton is 60 (they will hate me for writing this) and they are not just wise and solid but great bikers and will seek to be an inspiration to me going forward for many years to come.
Loads of pics in Gallery trail section.
Laters..