Depart from Madaba and travel to Jerash, once one of the grandest Roman cities in the world which currently stands as an excellently preserved insight into Greco-Roman times of old. The city thrived due to its position on the route of spice and incenses trade, reaching its zenith as a favourite of Emperor Hadrian around AD 130. The ancient walled town survives today as a remarkable evocation of life 2000 years ago, offering a striking collection of archways, theatres, public buildings and colonnaded streets. It’s a beautiful place to spend a day exploring.
After exploring the ruins, head towards the Dead Sea for the first proper cycle of the trip. Begin your cycling at 400 metres below sea level (it's weird, we know) and ride under the red stone cliffs high above the shores of the shimmering Dead Sea, with Israel in the near distance, to Amman Beach. It's a short first ride (approx. 30kms) but the terrain is undulating with a couple of short sharp hills to get your lungs working. The amazing views alone make it worthwhile.
Once the group reaches their destination, take some time to wash off the sweat at Amman Beach, lying on the shores of the Dead Sea. The water here is said to have excellent healing properties due to the high salt content, serving as the perfect way to wrap up a big ride. Afterwards, head back to Madaba to relax at the hotel for the rest of the evening.
Ride - approx. 30kms/19 miles, undulating with 2 significant climbs early in the ride, approx. 330m/1080ft of total elevation gain
Meals: B