FUJAIRAH // A tour company claims that the best way to explore Fujairah’s unique landscape – one which combines civilisation and wilderness, mountains and sea – is by bicycle.
Each week, a small group of cycling enthusiasts gathers at Al Aqaa beach to begin a tour of the emirate which takes them through green farmland, venerable villages and hiker-friendly mountains.
“We provide one or two off-road cycling tours around the emirate with approximately nine riders. We start with some easy riding on asphalt, passing by some residential areas, all the way through some eye-catching old and new farms, giving riders the chance to buy some fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Martin John, an Indian tour guide at UAE East Coast Tours.
“After that we leave the main road to start with a rocky and bumpy track where the true journey begins. Climbing through the coastal plains towards the mountains until we reach Al Owais dam,” added Mr John, 46.
Off-road cycling with difficult and steeply graded terrain is considered more challenging than on-road cycling and requires specially-designed bikes and extra precautions.
“We provide the participants with mountain bicycles that have specialised wheels, powerful brakes and suspension in both the frame and fork, and, of course, we also equipped them with helmets and [pads].”
“Residents and visitors of different ages and nationalities attend the tours, they all come to have a real adventure and practice their favourite sport, cycling is a really great sport that cures the body and soul,” he said.
The company hopes that by trying out its tours, a love for cycling across the emirate will take off.
“As well as the tours, we also provide bicycle rental to encourage more people to take up cycling and explore on their own,” he said.
rhaza@thenational.ae
