Sunflower Books Walk & Eat: Amsterdam

This pocket-sized full-colour guide to walking in Amsterdam is designed for short-break walking holidays using public transport. Although all the walks described are easy, even ‘non-walkers’ will want to stroll in and around the city, so will find the large-scale city plans, descriptions of the sights, and recommendations for eating out in Amsterdam useful. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the décor and one of their dishes, plus sample menu, price guide, opening times, and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival, local markets and specialities, glossary of local food terms, and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to ‘work’. Area covered: There are 10 walks in the city centre and outskirts, plus another on the edge of the North Holland Dune Reserve, 40km northwest of Amsterdam. Two excursions offer more possibilities for walking — one a 10km hike along an old sea dike and others in the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The best months for walking in Amsterdam are during spring and summer, when temperatures are mild and the queues manageable. It goes without saying that eating out in Amsterdam is enjoyable all year round!

Sunflower Books Bernese Oberland and Valais: car and train tours + 75 long and short walks

Although a car is the best way to explore much of the Oberland and Valais, Switzerland boasts the world’s best public transport system. You can see a vast majority of its mountain landscapes by public transport. There are many suggested train tours in the guide. But where trains don’t go, buses will – even to remote valleys and hamlets. Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise (you would expect nothing less of a country which has an article in its constitution regulating the responsibilities of those who maintain the thousands of kilometres of hiking paths!). Mountain huts and comfortable hotels sit atop summits reached by spectacular train or cable car rides, but there is still plenty of space where you will hardly meet a soul. The author, who lives in the area and has written several guides for walkers, caters for all abilities – from gentle strolls through the wine villages of the Valais to more strenuous hikes beside the north face of the Eiger or alongside the largest glacier in the Alps. Information ‘boxes’ add interest to the book – whether describing grape varieties and harvesting methods or the engineering feats of the country’s dams and irrigation channels. There are three main car tours, with dozens of side excursions. A map accompanies each car tour, but there are also two pull-out touring maps covering the whole of western Switzerland.) Of course, there are many suggestions for train, funicular and cable car rides, as well as 75 long and short walks (some of which are specially tailored to motorists). All the main walks are illustrated with 1:50,000 topo maps and free GPS tracks are available from this website. Area covered: This guide covers all of the Bernese Oberland and Valais. The best time for walking here is May to October (in the highest mountain areas July to September). Essential handbook for touring western Switzerland. This is a marvellous guide for anyone walking, using Swiss trains or driving around Western Switzerland. The descriptions are informative and accurate, providing just the right amount of guidance while allowing the reader to form their own opinions. A pull-out map in the back is conveniently annotated with reference numbers to the main walking tours and car tours detailed in the book. One whole chapter is devoted to those who will be using the Swiss Railroad to get around the country. Photos and topographical maps abound, complementing the written text and making this an enjoyable book to browse through even when not out hiking. –(SV, Amazon, reviewing the author’s guide to all of western Switzerland)

Sunflower Books Southern Peloponnese: 5 car tours + 50 long and short walks

There are hidden landscapes throughout mainland Greece, but the region which packs the most variety into the smallest space is the Peloponnese. From the beaches of Arcadia to the fir forests of Mt Parnon, from the olive groves of Kalamata to the pyramidal peak of Prophet Elijah, from classical Sparta to medieval Mani, this compact semi-island has it all. Though the ancients called it ‘the island of Pelops’, after their mythical king, this three-fingered landmass is joined to the mainland by a narrow isthmus at Corinth. Only in the 19th century was a canal finally cut through the isthmus, but it retains the cultural diversity and spectacular scenery of the mainland. Because there’s so much to discover, the author has drawn an east-west line roughly through the middle of the Peloponnese, and limited the book to the southern half. By good fortune, this contains its highest mountain range (Mt Taygetus), its finest Byzantine chapels and medieval forts (in the Mani), its wildest seascapes (Capes Tainaron and Maleas), its largest forest (Mt Parnon) and, arguably, some of its loveliest beaches (Pylos, Kiparissi and Elafonisos, to name just a few. The best months for walking in the Peloponnese are April and May, late September and October. The Mani was probably our best ever holiday in Greece and your book played its part! (JHG, Walton-on-Thames) [The Author] chose the Southern Peloponnese because it packs the most variety into the smallest space… I cannot recommend this guide more warmly. It may just infuse you too with a little madness for the mountains. (Athens News)   As someone who has enjoyed trekking in Greece with Michael, I can tell you that this book is almost as good as having him by your side. His directions are full of his characteristic wit and humor and he shares his deep knowledge of Greek culture effortlessly, providing nuggets of history, botany and such miscellany as how to deal with fierce sheepdogs. Reading his descriptions may whet your appetite for taking every single walk, but he also tells you where you might not want to go if your legs are a bit weak or you have no head for heights. But you don’t have to have stout calves and hiking boots to enjoy this book. It also includes five possible car itineraries that take in suggestions for picnic spots, short walks and local landmarks. You’ll find places in here that you won’t find in any guidebooks, because Michael has been exploring the Greek mountains since childhood and worked on this guide for 10 years. If you think Greece is just islands and beaches, this book will introduce you to its other side, one that most visitors barely suspect exists. You couldn’t be in better hands. (DFL, Amazon)

Sunflower Books Zakynthos (Zante) - Sunflower Complete Guide with Walks

This guidebook is an ideal companion for motorists who want to tour Zakynthos by car, as well as those planning a holiday walking in Zakynthos. The book combines the best features of our ‘Landscapes’ walking and car touring guides with all the detail you would expect in a hefty general guide, but it is pocket size and in full colour. Coverage includes getting there and getting about; recommended accommodation and restaurants; practicalities A-Z; history; 22 main walks with many variations, all with both hand-drawn and GPS-compatible maps; copious notes on geology, flora and fauna (all illustrated). I searched everywhere. On the Internet, in libraries, in every bookstore that I could find, but although I found a lot of general guides on the Greek islands, they could only provide a small description of [Zakynthos] and all the common tourist attractions — water park, navaggio, carreta turtles, etc. Having the experience of Paris, when doing some walking tours in the old town was the best part of our trip, we searched for the same thing for Zakynthos, but weren’t really finding anything. When this Zakynthos (Zante) with walks book opened its pages to us, it was all we are looking for, and even more. I think one of the best things about the book is that the author, Gail Schofield, lives there and knows the surrounding and also that she was a zoology student, so has insights on all the plants and animals that live on the island. A book on culture and architecture is a marvel in large cities, but on islands like Zakynthos, where the main attraction is its savageness, you need to know everything about the environment, beaches and life in general. I skimmed the book preparing for our trip, and I found interesting the fact that it has hand-drawn maps of every walking tour, a thing that I haven’t encountered that frequently in travel books. The illustrations of plants and animals are also high quality but the best part of the book is the folding map at the end which is by far the most complete map I have found to date. It has all the walking tours and car tours on it so you don’t have to struggle planning them by yourself and if you go on the official site you can also download the GPS waypoints for the walking tours (that of course if you’re not to lazy to enter them yourself from the end of the book). I highly recommend this books to anyone visiting Zakynthos. (RP, Amazon) Area covered: There are car tours and walks all over the island. Although the main towns can be reached by bus, to really take advantage of the island and to reach most of the walks you will need to hire a car (to save money, hire through your travel agent when booking your holiday or book in advance on the web). If you would like to explore the island’s back roads or cover some of the walking routes by car, the author advises hiring a four-wheel drive vehicle. (But 4WD vehicles are not necessary for reaching the starting points of the walks). The best months for walking on Zakynthos are from late September to May; summer is far too hot.

Sunflower Books Malta, Gozo and Comino: 3 car tours + 60 long and short walks

The author has rewalked every step of this new 7th edition just a few months prior to publication. Another bonus is the introduction of free downloadable tracks and waypoints for those who like to walk with GPS. The Maltese landscape offers rich rewards for those who enjoy exploring: interests in ancient and modern history, military and ecclesiastical architecture, geology, and flora are all well catered for. If this will be your first visit to the Maltese Islands, this book will be a perfect introduction to the delights of walking in Malta and Gozo and touring the islands by car or with public transport. Area covered: Exhaustive coverage of Malta and Gozo, as well as one walk on Comino The best months for walking in Malta and Gozo are March, April, May, October and November.

Sunflower Books Walk & Eat: Mallorca

This pocket-sized full-colour guide is designed for walking in Mallorca with a gastronomical touch, using public transport. Even ‘non-walkers’ will appreciate the recommendations for Mallorca restaurants. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the décor and one of their dishes, plus sample menu, price guide, opening times and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival, local markets and specialities, glossary of local food terms, and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to ‘work’. Sunflower Books have led the field for years with their brilliant Landscapes walking and car touring guides. Now they have raised their game even higher with a superb new Walk & Eat series. The Mallorca guide is a real delight — an inspiring collection of walks and excursions with recommended restaurants and hotels, as well as recipes for you to try out yourself. (Frank Barrett, Mail on Sunday) Area covered: The walks are dotted all around the island, with most in the west and mountainous northwest. Note: There is some overlapping of walk routes between this book and Landscapes of Mallorca The best months for walking in Mallorca are May, June and October, but you can hike on the island all year round, except for July-early September, when it is far too hot.

Sunflower Books Guernsey with Alderney, Sark and Herm: car tour and 30 long & short walks

All the walks have been rechecked for this Sixth edition of Sunflower’s guide to Guernsey, Alderney and Sark. The maps have all been redrawn using Openstreet mapping with reference to GPS tracking, and free downloadable GPS tracks are now available for all the walks in the guide. An ideal introduction for the first-time visitor, this book also provides new ideas for those who come year after year. Apart from marvellous coastal scenery that’s been compared to that of Cornwall and Brittany, there is much to explore of the island’s past. For example, you could follow some of Guernsey’s ‘green lanes’ and ‘water lanes’ — centuries-old paths once used by pack-horses and donkeys, or follow a route that takes in the relics of prehistoric burial grounds as well as remnants of the German Occupation during World War II. Guernsey cliff walks, with steep climbs and lots of steps, are quite challenging, but elsewhere walking in Guernsey is very easy — the terrain is almost flat and ideal for the casual stroller. Area covered: all of Guernsey, plus the nearby islands of Alderney, Sark and Herm Best time to walk is in the spring, especially April/May when the spring flowers are out. But walking is enjoyable through to October, and even in the winter months ­ if you don’t mind showers and bracing breezes.

Sunflower Books Ibiza and Formentera: 3 Car Tours, 11 Cycle Tours, 27 Walks

Until the sixties, Ibiza belonged to the Ibizans, and only a few artists, poets and writers lived in this paradise. Then the flower-children arrived, the hippies and drop-outs. In the last decades however, mass tourism has taken over and unfortunately destroyed much of the charm of Ibiza and Formentera. But not everything on the islands has been spoiled, and a visit to the pine islands’ (the ‘Pityussae’, as the Greeks called them) is still worthwhile today. There’s an unending wealth of hidden beauty spots to be discovered, and this book helps you to find the best of Ibiza and Formentera by car, bicycle, or on foot. Routes have been recently checked for this new Fifth edition – and there are two bonuses: firstly, there are now GPS tracks for all the walks and cycle tours; secondly, for the adventurous, the author has described a round-the-island hike for which detailed stages and GPS tracks are available on this website (see the ‘GPS tracks’ tab). Area covered: The book covers all of both islands. The best months for walking on Ibiza and Formentera are March to June and September/October.

Sunflower Books Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera: 65 Long and Short

The Mediterranean coast between Nizza (Nice) and La Spezia, the ‘Riviera’, was the birthplace of modern tourism in the early 1800s. The beauty of the landscape, the unspoilt and colourful old towns by the sea, the mild climate and the abundant subtropical vegetation attracted the upper classes who could afford the luxury of a leisurely stay in the warmth of the south. These wealthy people spent their days gambling in the casinos; hiking along stony mule trails or swimming in salt water was definitely not what a break in the Med was all about! But over the last 30 years the eastern part of the area, the Riviera di Levante between Genoa and La Spezia, has become a much-loved hiking: the colourful houses of the five villages, nestled against steep terraced slopes above the blue sea and still connected by old cobbled mule trails, take the visitor back to the days when the Italian coast was still unspoilt by modern civilisation. That’s why this small area has been designated as an Italian national park and a UNESCO world heritage site. Further inland, the sparsely inhabited Apennines, which cross the whole Italian Peninsula from Liguria to Calabria, offer up a totally different landscape — a remote area of high pastures, mixed forests and barren ridges. This area has plenty of hiking trails, but it does not satisfy the expectations of visitors seeking the charm of the Mediterranean. That’s why foreign visitors tend to ignore this hinterland - and why nearly all the walks in this book keep to the coast. Whatever your age or ability this guide features some glorious walks that will ensure you have a memorable holiday in Cinque Terre. Inside the Sunflower Cinque Terre guide book you'll find: 65 long and short walks for all ages and abilities - each walk is graded so you can easily match your ability to the level of walk. Topographical walking maps - give you a clear sense of the surrounding terrain with a scale of 1:50,000 Free downloadable gps tracks - for the techies Satnav guidance to walk starts for motorists Strolls to idyllic picnic spots - enjoy our recommendations for where to picnic along the way Timetables for public transport - ideal if you want to link two walks or avoid hiring a car on your holiday Online update service for the latest information This is a walking guide: while ‘Landscapes’ guides normally feature car touring and picnicking sections, the Riviera di Levante does not lend itself to touring by car. The towns and villages are so tightly packed that parking is a major problem — especially in the Cinque Terre. And since most of the trails are linear, the walks require access by public transport in any case. Visitors out for a stroll can use Sunflower’s detailed maps to find the best spots for picnicking in a gorgeous setting. Area covered: The book covers the whole Riviera di Levante, from the Magra River and La Spezia in the south, via the Cinque Terre and Portofino Peninsula, to Genoa in the north. Most of the walks are by the coast, since that’s where almost all visitors want to holiday, but there are a few hikes in the isolated interior. The best months for walking in this part of Italy are April to mid-June and mid-September to the end of October, but because of the mild climate, hiking can be pleasant all year round, especially if one sticks close the the coast in winter.  

Sunflower Books Walk & Eat: Avignon

This pocket-sized full-colour guide to walking in Provence is designed for short-break walking holidays around Avignon and the Roman cities of Nîmes and Arles using the excellent public transport services. Avignon is just 2h30min from Paris by TGV (6 hours direct from London in summer); it is also served by coach and budget airlines. Even ‘non-walkers’ will appreciate the large-scale city plans, descriptions of the sights, and recommendations for eating out in Provence. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the décor and one of their dishes, sample menu, price guide, opening times, and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival (using public transport, tourist information, shopping), local markets and specialities, glossary of local food terms, and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to ‘work’. Area covered: Besides Avignon, Nîmes and Arles, the book covers many other highlights: St-Rémy, Les Baux, the Alpilles, Barbentane, Gordes and the Pont du Gard (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) — all easily accessible by public transport. The best months for countryside walking in Provence are from late September till May. In summer it’s best to just stroll around the sights and sites using the large-scale town plans and enjoy eating out in Provence! Sunflower have led the field for years with their brilliant Landscapes walking and car touring guides. Now they have raised their game even higher with a superb new Walk & Eat series. (Frank Barrett, Mail on Sunday) Full of wonderful tips of Avignon and surrounding areas (EP, Amazon) Great guide book, lots of interesting walking, information on local history and places to eat’ (flash, Amazon)

Sunflower Books Walk & Eat: Kefalonia

If holidays are about new experiences, then this pocket guide solves two problems — where to enjoy walking in Kefalonia and where to find some good, traditional food. There are strolls for hot days and longer walks to work up an appetite. And if you‘re just after some recommendations for where to eat out in Kefalonia, you need look no further! For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the décor and one of their dishes, plus sample menu, price guide, opening times, and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival, shopping for self-catering (including health food shops), local markets and specialities, glossary of local food terms, etc. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to ‘work’. This was an absolutely invaluable book… I have to be honest, I was more interested in the eating than the walking because when we last went to Kefalonia the food was pretty average… We went to a lot of the featured restaurants and they were all fantastic. We even ended up doing some of the walks. (SC, Amazon) I spent a week on Kefalonia with this book and I have no idea what I should have done without it. The walks are easy and can be done by everyone. After the walk the selection of places to eat seemed superb to me. (HH, Amazon) Area covered: The walks are spread all around the island and there is at least one near every major resort. There isn’t much information available for walking on the island, and this book brings together ten of Kefalonia’s best walks. The best months for walking in Kefalonia are from early April to end May and late September till October.

Sunflower Books Western Crete: 8 Car Tours, 45 Long and Short Walks

NEW EDITION MARCH 2023 ‘Mountains rearing straight up from the sea, deep wooded gorges, ravines and valleys — and yet more glorious mountains, standing proud and acting as a magnet to the eye and the imagination — that’s Western Crete, or real Crete, as some would say. Its strong, dramatic scenery and colours create sweeping landscapes of harsh but beautiful countryside — countryside that has been the backdrop for heroic deeds, ancient civilisations and constant intrigue for thousands of years, and the home of obdurate, tough-spirited people — made so by their labours on the land and their experiences. ‘Getting to know Western Crete takes time; the number of people who explore beyond the obvious is slowly growing. We hope we will lead you straight to the heart of the matter with this book, whether you are a first- or second-time visitor unsure about how best to get to know the island or, indeed, if you are someone who doesn’t need convincing but would like a reliable, thorough and different guide. We encourage you to explore to the full. We won’t need to inspire you; one look at Western Crete will do that.’ (from the Preface) Key features: 45 long and short walks, colour-coded for grade 1:50,000 topo maps with waypoints Free downloadable GPS tracks E4 long-distance hiking route highlighted on all relevant maps satnav coordinates to walk starting points 8 car tours and fold-out touring maps of both Eastern and Western Crete – ideal for planning plans of Hania and Rethimnon strolls to idyllic picnic spots timetables for local transport online update service Area covered: From the Gramvousa Peninsula east to the area around Rethimnon The best months for walking in Crete are April to June, September or October

Sunflower Books Walk & Eat: Corsica

This pocket-sized full-colour guide to walking in Corsica is designed for visitors who would like to do some fairly easy walking as opposed to tackling the more difficult routes described in Landscapes of Corsica. It’s ideal for high season, when strenuous routes may be too hot, or for those travelling with children. Even ‘non-walkers’ will appreciate the recommendations for eating out in Corsica. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the décor and one of their dishes, plus sample menu, price guide, opening times and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival, local markets and specialities, a glossary of local food terms, and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is an emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to ‘work’. Area covered: There are walks all around the island. Important note: All of these walks are also described in "Landscapes of Corsica". The chief difference is the coverage of shopping, restaurants and recipes. Most of these walks are also easily accessible using public transport (bus or train), whereas many walks in Landscapes of Corsica are more suitable for motorists. Do use the ‘Look Inside’ facility on Amazon to compare coverage in the two guides. Best months for walking in Corsica: In May and June the countryside is enlivened with a tapestry of wild flowers and maquis in bloom. The hills are ablaze with colour and the air is intoxicatingly-scented by the maquis. September and October are also fine – a blaze of autumnal colour. A good companion to anyone attempting a sedate walking holiday in Corsica. Most routes are only a few miles long, making it a suitable guide for older people or those walking with young children. (Weekend Telegraph) The emphasis is on first working up a healthy appetite, then satisfying it with recipes … taken from sources [as diverse as] monasteries and cafés. Beautifully illustrated and easy reading, even for non-walkers. (Food and Travel) Walking, eating and Corsica. What’s not to like? (Living France)

Sunflower Books Walk & Eat: Around Nice

This pocket-sized full-colour guide to walking in Nice and the Côte d’Azur is designed for short-break walking holidays using the excellent public transport services. Nice is easily and inexpensively reached by several budget airlines, and the climate makes for brilliant walking and excursions all year round. Even ‘non-walkers’ will appreciate the large-scale plan of Nice centre, descriptions of the sights, and recommendations for restaurants in Nice and places like Cap Ferrat, La Turbie, Menton, Théoule-sur-Mer. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the décor and one of their dishes, sample menu, price guide, opening times, and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival, local markets and specialities, glossary of local food terms, and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to ‘work’. Area covered: Besides Nice itself, the book describes walks and excursions in the most beautiful coastal and inland areas easily reached by public transport — from the Esterel in the west to Cap Martin in the east and from the coast north to the Alps. The best months for walking in Nice and the Côte d’Azur are from mid-September until early June — high summer is far too hot.

Sunflower Books Tenerife: Car Tours and Walks

This was the first ever guide for walking in Tenerife, but in recent years the island has become the most popular of all the Canaries among walkers. And for good reason. Tenerife has something for everyone: country lanes for strolling, nature trails for hiking, and mountains to be scaled — including El Teide, the highest in all Spain. The profusion of wild plants and flowers makes the island a botanical treasure. Area covered: Based on Puerto de la Cruz, this book is the best choice for those staying in the north of Tenerife. For those who tour Tenerife by car, the drives range all over the island. Walks cover the Orotava Valley, Las Cañadas, and the Teno and Anaga peninsulas. (For walks in the south of Tenerife, see "Landscapes of Southern Tenerife and La Gomera") The best months for walking in Tenerife are from October to June.

Sunflower Books Sorrento, Amalfi and Capri: 7 Car Tours + 72 Walk Segments

One of Sunflower’s most popular guides ever. Sorrento, Amalfi and Capri are wonderful areas for walkers. The author visits at least once a year to update — but he has ‘eyes and ears on the ground’ as well, so although this is the latest edition with all the changes known to us early spring 2017, always look at the Update page as well for last-minute tips from users or colleagues in this region of Italy. Accident of history and steepness of terrain have preserved a network of ancient footpaths linking the coastal towns of the Neapolitan Riviera and the surrounding countryside. You can either climb almost from your hotel doorstep up into the lemon groves or take a bus into the hills and walk back down. All along the way you will visit hillside villages or remote monasteries and be regaled by the most stunning views. The flowers are a constant delight: from broom and rosemary in March to freesias and cistus in May. In autumn, the woods are carpeted with cyclamen. Most of the paths can be followed easily by people who do not claim to be regular walkers, though committed hikers will like them just the same. Area covered: The entire Amalfi (Sorrento) Peninsula, from the famous Amalfi Coast to the foothills of the Lattari Mountains; also the island of Capri, 6km off the coast The best months for walking the Amalfi Coast are April-June, September/October.

Sunflower Books Algarve: 5 Car Tours, 50 Long and Short Walks

Few visitors explore beyond the beautiful Algarve coastline, but the Andersons did. They say, ‘We found a countryside full of interest and beauty. From flowers and fountains, hilltops and history, to windmills and watermills, we can set your feet wandering to find them all. But you can explore Algarve by car, too, searching out little-known points of interest — like the huge rose compass on the barren promontory of Sagres, where Prince Henry the Navigator founded his school of navigation. But don’t think that we have ignored the beautiful and rugged coastline. Wherever it is still unspoilt and free from development, we have incorporated it into a walk.’ Key features: 50 long and short walks, colour-coded for grade 1:50,000 topo maps with waypoints free downloadable GPS tracks Algarve Way highlighted on all relevant maps satnav coordinates to walk starting points 5 car tours and fold-out touring map – ideal for planning plan of Faro 20+ picnic suggestions, many suitable as short walks timetables for local transport online update service Area covered: from the west coast east to the Spanish border and north to the area around Monchique. When to go: The best months for walking in the Algarve are March to May or September and October, but winter walking is enjoyable too.

Sunflower Books Palma and El Hierro: 4 Car Tours + 45 Long and Short Walks

In natural beauty, La Palma rivals all the other Canary Islands put together. Its immense, abyss-like crater, the Caldera de Taburiente, is considered to be the largest of its kind in the world. Deep within its pine-speckled, towering walls is a year-round abundance of gushing streams, boisterous cascades, and a plummeting waterfall. Outside the crater, high on the cloud-catching hillsides, 20 million-year-old laurel forests grow as dense as a jungle. In the southern half of the island, hills pitted with volcanic craters and mini-deserts of black lapilli speak of the island’s volcanic past. This stark, striking landscape, all the more dramatic for its stabs of volcanic reds, oranges, and yellows, is far removed from the lush and verdant, tree-clad north. El Hierro, the least-visited of all the Canaries, at first appears to be a dried-up, sprawling mountain of rock, rising straight from the sea, treeless and barren. But Noel reveals the island’s hidden charms — as remarkable as any in the archipelago. Whether you tour La Palma or El Hierro by car or discover them on foot, Noel introduces you to the islands’ best beauty spots.

Sunflower Books Mallorca: Car Tours and Walks

This was the first walking guide for Mallorca, the guide that won Sunflower the SundayTimes ‘Oscar’ for best travel guide — and eventually made the island one of the most popular walking areas in Europe. The author has lived on Mallorca for over 30 years and knows the island intimately. This completely revised 7th edition includes newly-drawn maps incorporating the recently inaugurated GR221 (‘Drystone Route’) — a long-distance walk which is covered almost in its entirety by the 60 long and short day walks in the book. There are also 10 car tours with accompanying fold-out touring map, as well as plans of Palma and Soller, bus, train and boat timetables and panels of information on Mallorcan customs and features of the landscape. A free online update service informs users of any route-change information. Area covered: The whole island is covered for those touring Mallorca by car, but for walking in Mallorca, emphasis has naturally been placed on the northern sierras. The best months for walking in Mallorca are May, June and October, but you can hike on the island all year round, except for July-early September, when it is far too hot. Area covered: The whole island is covered for those touring Mallorca by car, but for walking in Mallorca, emphasis has naturally been placed on the northern sierras. The best months for walking in Mallorca are May, June and October, but you can hike on the island all year round, except for July-early September, when it is far too hot.

Sunflower Books Northern Portugal: 3 car tours + wine tour + 30 long and short walks

Here, in the province of Minho (arguably the most beautiful part of the country), the lush greenness of the coastal lowlands, the Costa Verde, contrasts sharply with the mountainous interior — one of Europe’s last wilderness areas. While emphasising excursions in the country’s only national park, the Peneda-Gerês, the book also describes more gregarious pursuits — visiting local markets, sampling at the Port wine lodges, and cruising on the Douro. The best months for walking in Portugal (Minho/Peneda-Gerês) are from late April to mid-June and from mid-September till the end of October. The concept of the book is excellent and it helped us to enjoy the region. Don’t go to the north of Portugal without it! (PWK, Amazon) An excellent compact guide full of the authors’ detailed knowledge of the region. I liked the layout with the combination of photos, description and map for each walk. I found the grading of the walks and the estimated walking times to be realistic. I completed 5 of the walks. (James, Amazon) Sunflower’s guide helped to make the most of three days in the area and two days car trip to Peneda-Geres… every penny spent on the book was more than worth it. (Indrek, Amazon)

Sunflower Books Picos de Europa: Car Tour with Detours + 26 Long and Short Walks

Every step of every walk has been retraced for this Seventh edition of the best-selling guide to the Picos. The maps have been revised where necessary, and free downloadable GPS tracks are now available for all the walks. The Picos de Europa, one of Europe’s last mountain wilderness areas, are the high point of a long ridge of mountains which runs along the north coast of Spain, the Cordillera Cantabrica. Rising to 2648m (about 8700ft), the Picos are divided into three spectacular limestone massifs separated from one another, and from the surrounding ranges, by precipitous gorges — a truly spectacular area in which to walk or tour. This guide contains a wealth of information about the dazzling array of plant and animal life you can expect to see when exploring the range. The author, an all-round naturalist, has been living and walking in the Picos de Europa for almost 30 years. Together with Mike Lockwood, she has also written Sunflower’s guide to the Costa Brava. Area covered: the entire range, consisting of three separate limestone massifs: Urrieles (central Picos), Cornión (western Picos), and Ándara (eastern Picos) The best months for walking in the Picos de Europa are June to September.

Sunflower Books Maderia Walks and Drives: 100 long and short walks; 6 car tours

The go-to Madeira travel guide for over 35 years. Strap on your boots and discover Madeira on foot with the Sunflower Madeira travel guide. And on the days when your feet may have had enough, enjoy some spectacular scenery on one of our legendary car tours. The Sunflower Madeira guide is indispensable for hiking in Madeira or seeing Madeira by car. This 15th edition was updated just after the authors’ latest trip, but things move fast on this island - so Sunflower’s free Update service with users’ comments makes the guide as up-to-the-minute as possible. The maps are annotated with waypoints, and there are free downloadable GPS tracks for all the walks. While dedicated hikers will revel in the island’s mountainous terrain (Madeira is one of Europe’s top destinations for mountain walks), walking the ‘levada’ paths is one of the most popular activities with visitors. Levadas are watercourses that carry rainfall from the mountains to irrigate the cultivated terraces. Whatever your age or ability we’ve got some glorious walks and car tours to ensure you have a memorable Madeira holiday. Inside the Sunflower Madeira guide book you’ll find:100 long and short walks for all ages and abilities - each walk is graded so you can easily match your ability to the level of walkTopographical walking maps - give you a clear sense of the surrounding terrainFree downloadable gps tracks - for the techiesSatnav guidance to walk starting points for motorists 6 car tours and fold-out touring map - for easy reference on your tour Strolls to idyllic picnic spots - enjoy our recommendations for where to picnic along the wayTimetables for public transport - ideal if you want to link two walks or avoid hiring a car on your holidayOnline update service for the latest information Includes Funchal town plan and coastal walkWhether you tour the island by car or explore on foot, this book – which first introduced levada-walking to a large audience – has been the guide to Madeira’s countryside for more than 35 years. We look forward to showing you around.

Sunflower Books Corfu: Walks And Car Tours

The book focuses on walking in Corfu, but it is not intended only for walkers. The touring section will show you the best of Corfu by car, and the picnic suggestions make an excellent introduction to the countryside. This Eighth edition has been completely revised just prior to publication, with many new walks (there are now 60 long and short walks), brand new maps based on OpenStreet mapping, free GPS tracks and colour-coded grading of the walks. For centuries Corfu’s magnetic beauty has attracted travellers, who have sung the praises of the peacock-hued bays, the hillsides drenched in silvery-green olive trees, and the emerald greenness of the countryside. And when you leave Corfu, these will be your impressions too. While time brings change, the pristine Corfu so beloved of Lear and the Durrell brothers can still be found — this new edition tells you where. It turns the island inside-out and helps you find a Corfu unknown to most tourists. Area covered: There are walks for all ages and abilities criss-crossing the whole island, from strolls to beaches to challenging day-long hikes in the mountains. The best months for walking in Corfu are April, May, early June, late September and October — temperatures are moderate and the countryside at its colourful best.

Sunflower Books Fuerteventura: Walks and Car Tours

Fuerteventura is different from all the other islands in the Canaries. Being the closest to Africa, there’s a definite taste of the Sahara about it. The countryside is lonely but warm, bleak but friendly and, in its own way, beautiful. Beaches are what Fuerteventura is all about; mile upon mile of untouched golden sand, great billowing white sand dunes, foaming surf, and quiet turquoise coves. Even though the landscape changes little, it’s pleasant to tour Fuerteventura by car, since there’s little traffic. But walking in Fuerteventura is also extremely enjoyable; there are walks to suit all appetites — rambles across the hills, fairly easy mountain ascents, a seaside hike and, for explorers, rocky barrancos with hidden streams and palm groves. Area covered: The guide covers the whole of Fuerteventura and includes a day-trip to nearby Lanzarote — with a car tour there and four walks for those who stay a bit longer. The best time for walking in Fuerteventura is from October to June.

Sunflower Books Gran Canaria: 5 Car Tours + 50 Long and Short Walks

For many years Gran Canaria was the most underrated of the Canary Islands among countryside enthusiasts but, recently, with the restoration of the old trails, the island has been ‘discovered’ by walkers. It is often referred to as a ‘continent in minature’. If you travel across Gran Canaria by car or on foot you’ll see why for yourself! From the hub of the cumbre, the island’s great saddle, ravines are born and fan out seaward like spokes on a wheel, gouging enormous valleys in their wake. Between them there are magnificent barrancos (ravines). Each has its own little secret to share. In the Barranco de los Cernicalos there are knee-deep grasses and a chuckling stream; the Barranco de la Aldea hides an emerald-green reservoir; the Barranco de Güígüí opens out to an incomparable beach. These are but a few of the island’s breathtaking ravines… and this is only the start of what you will find when out walking in Gran Canaria. Area covered: the whole island The best months for walking in Gran Canaria are October to June.

Sunflower Books Lanzarote: Car Tours and Walks

Fascinating Lanzarote is truly extraordinary. Its fate was decided some two and one-half centuries ago, when the largest volcanic eruption in recorded history took place, leaving a strange and alluring countryside in its wake — a landscape littered with volcanoes and dark streams of jagged lava. This is the backdrop to nearly every scene on the island, and intriguing sights abound — none more so than the ‘Fire Mountains’. As for walking in Lanzarote, there is no better place in the Canaries for just strolling; ramblers will be in their element here. Each of the walks in this book takes you to a different corner of the island and shows you a scenically different outlook. But if walking is not your favourite pastime, then do explore Lanzarote by car. Area covered: The guide covers the whole of Lanzarote and includes a day-trip to explore Fuerteventura by car. There is also a walk on the island of Lobos — off the coast of Fuerteventura, but also accessible by boat from Playa Blanca on Lanzarote. The best time for walking in Lanzarote is from October to June.

Sunflower Books Sicily: 8 car tours + 70 long and short walks

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean and long a Mecca for culture freaks, also rewards the countryside lover with its magnificent landscapes. Peter Amann knows the island intimately; he leads walking groups on Sicily and works for the preservation of its monuments. There is enough material in this book for several holidays. For those touring Sicily by car, the eight car tours (mostly circular and covering 2000 km) follow little-used secondary roads wherever possible. If you’re walking in Sicily, the routes are as varied in length and grade as the landscape itself — a distillation of the best on the island. No holiday would be complete without one of these guides. In fact it has got to the point of seeing what destinations are covered and planning our next trip accordingly. Very much more than just a walk book. Sicily is a stunner scenically. (AL, Amazon) Good old Sunflowers, those thin blue books that walkers on the Continent trust like seasoned friends from Sicily to the Azores — they never fail to find you a really good walk. (Christopher Somerville, Weekend Telegraph) I purchased this guide having previously used the excellent Sunflower series on walking holidays in Corsica, Picos de Europa and the Azores. The format is excellent: a pocket size book with small maps embedded in each walk’s description, and a larger pull-out map at the back showing the location of the walk. Highly recommended. (RS, Amazon) The best months for walking in Sicily are March to June and September to November. Area covered: the entire island except for the far southwest corner.

Sunflower Books The Azores: Walks And Car Tours

The Azores, nine islands in the Atlantic halfway between the Old World and the New, rise above sea level from a depth of several thousand metres. They are all volcanic in origin and all are covered in this guide book. They are not the remains of the legendary continent of Atlantis, which is said to have sunk in the ocean once upon a time. Nonetheless, there is an aura of mystery about this lush green archipelago … awe-inspiring mountains and peaceful valleys with abundant exotic plants, enchanting lakes of stunning beauty amidst extinct craters, charming hill country with fields and meadows, and magnificent coasts lined by picturesque villages and historic towns. This thoroughly revised Eighth edition is a must for anyone planning a walking holiday in the Azores, and a useful companion for anyone planning to explore the Azores by car. Good old Sunflowers, those slim blue books that walkers on the Continent trust like seasoned friends from Sicily to the Azores — they never fail to find you a really good walk. Christopher Somerville, Weekend Telegraph Once again, my wife and I have had a superb holiday using one of your guide books, on this occasion walking in the Azores. Please would you congratulate Mr. Stieglitz on his directions, which are clear, detailed and accurate. We quickly gained confidence in this author. (PS, Poole) We are just heading home from a marvellous holiday on São Miguel having used your book. It has proved invaluable. (UF, Cambridge) I found this guide fantastic… its maps and details were far better than the items my tour company had given me. (GH, Amazon) The best time for walking in the Azores is May to October.

Sunflower Books Tatra Mountains (Poland and Slovakia): Car Tours and Walks

For those who love mountain walks, there can be few places where hikers are better catered for than in the Polish Tatras and the Slovakian Tatras. Skilfully constructed paths make walking in very rough terrain comparatively easy; signposting and waymarking are almost universally excellent. Hillwalkers will be in their element here, but there are often shorter, easy suggestions for the less hardy or they can create their own walks from the detailed maps in the book (which show all waymarked routes). In addition, those touring Slovakia or Poland by car will find that the tours lead to dozens of short walks and picnic spots, so that even those with little walking experience can make the most of these wonderful mountains. In each of the six national parks covered in the book you can look forward to sampling local drinks and dishes at one or more of the mountain inns. Walking in the national parks featured in this guide will undoubtedly be a very rewarding experience — the enjoyment of magnificent scenery and the excellent facilities for hikers, and perhaps also for successfully undertaking what may seem quite daunting walks in relatively high mountains. The experience can be rewarding on another level: being among people who are obviously enjoying themselves, who don’t seem to need an array of the latest outdoor fashions, and who are quietly proud of their mountain heritage. Area covered: Within the compact area covered by this guide (140km east–west, 65km north–south) are two outstanding national parks in southernmost Poland: Pieniny and Tatra, and the best of neighbouring Slovakia’s mountains in four national parks: Tatra, Slovensky Raj (Slovak Paradise), Low Tatra and Mala Fatra.

Sunflower Books Croatia: 9 Car Tours, 70 Long and Short Walks

Contrasts and diversity sum up Croatia, one of the most beautiful and beguiling countries in Europe: tall forests, wind-combed prickly thornbush and juniper on the stony uplands, the miraculous waterfalls in the Plitvice Lakes and Krka national parks, the aridity of the karst landscapes, modern tourist resorts and timeless old villages, the deserted Krajina region and the intensively cultivated Neretva delta. The parks are particularly welcoming to walkers, with miles of waymarked and well-maintained paths and trails, some bringing seemingly inaccessible summits within quite easy reach. From prehistoric times to the end of the 20th century, many empires and events have left their marks on the Croatian landscape. There are prehistoric piles of stones on hilltops, Venetian-era town walls and towers, British and French fortresses, opulent Austro-Hungarian villas, partisans’ refuges and poignant memorials commemorating World War II resistance fighters, and even signs of the 1990s strife. Age-old expressions of religious belief survive in many simple, beautiful chapels in small villages. Stone walls and enclosures testify to the centuries-old challenge to wrest a living from the land, even though many are crumbling or are being reclaimed by forests. Key features: 70 long and short walks for all ages and abilities 1:50,000 topo maps 9 car tours and fold-out touring maps including ferry routes – ideal for planning 30 picnic suggestions public transport information, with websites online update service Area covered: Croatia’s Adriatic coast from the Kvarner Gulf south to Dubrovnik, 11 islands, and two inland areas. Includes the Mljet, Plitvice Lakes, Krka and Paklenica national parks, Biokovo and Ucka nature parks, five of Croatia’s six World Heritage sites. The best months for walking in Croatia are May to July, September and October.

Sunflower Books Menorca: Car Tours and Walks

Menorca is a peaceful island, much more low-key than its neighbouring Balearic Islands. Walking in Menorca takes you to some beautiful scenery, both inland and along the truly idyllic coastline with its splendid beaches. Whether you’re walking or touring Menorca by car, you will marvel at the amazing remnants of Menorca’s past scattered all around the island — the densest concentration of prehistoric monuments in Europe. This fully updated fifth edition will delight Menorca’s many enthusiasts. The large-scale topo maps and the fold-out touring map now include the Camí de Cavalls, a round-the-island coastal walk. Area covered: the whole of Menorca The best months for walking in Menorca are April, May, June, September and October (when it will still be warm enough for most people), but take something showerproof for the occasional wet day — Menorca is the wettest of the Balearic islands, though July and August can normally be relied upon for lots of sun and heat (so are not ideal for walking!).

Sunflower Books Eastern Provence (Côte D’Azur To The Alps): Walks And Car Tours

This guide book, half of a two-volume set, is intended for motorists who want to tour eastern Provence and the Côte d’Azur by car and enjoy some superb walks en route. The drives have been described in such detail that there is no need to make constant reference to a map. The walks selected — all set in areas of great natural beauty and historical interest — are those the authors believe offer the greatest sense of satisfaction for the effort involved. These are not tough GR routes, but mostly circular walks suitable for moderately fit people. There are also restaurant recommendations for each tour. Area covered: Beginning at Nice and the Riviera, you head north and west through the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes de Haute-Provence (highlights include the Mercantour National Park, Grand Canyon du Verdon and a journey on the Train des Pignes). Beyond Var, with its unspoilt coast, the book takes you round the Montagne Ste-Victoire to Aix-en-Provence. Best months for walking: generally March to June and September and October, but walks on the Côte d’Azur can be enjoyed throughout the winter months.

Sunflower Books Languedoc-Roussillon and Western Provence: 12 Car Tours + 70 Walks + Recommended Restaurants

This guidebook, half of a two-volume set, is intended for motorists who want to tour western Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon by car and enjoy some superb walks en route. The drives have been described in such detail that there is no need to make constant reference to a map. The walks selected — all set in areas of great natural beauty and historical interest — are those the authors believe offer the greatest sense of satisfaction for the effort involved. These are not tough GR routes, but mostly circular walks suitable for moderately fit people. There are also restaurant recommendations for each tour. The book is also ideal for those taking city breaks to places like Carcassonne, Perpignan, Nîmes, Marseille, Montpellier with the budget airlines. Area covered: Beginning at Aix-en-Provence, you travel west via the Lubéron and Mont Ventoux to the great Roman cities and the Pont du Gard. After forays north to the Ardèche, the Tarn and the Cirque de Navacelles, head south through Hérault to Carcassonne and the Canal du Midi. Crossing the Corbières and the Land of the Cathars, you reach the foot of Canigou, holy mountain of the Pyrenees. Best months for walking: generally March to June and September and October, but most of the walks described can be enjoyed throughout the winter months.

Sunflower Books The Costa Blanca: 75 Long And Short Walks + 5 Car Tours

The go-to Costa Blanca travel guide for discovering the best walks and car tours. Strap on your boots and discover Costa Blanca on foot with the Sunflower Costa Blanca travel guide. And on the days when your feet may have had enough, enjoy some spectacular scenery on one of our legendary car tours. Inside the Sunflower Costa Blanca guide book you'll find:75 long and short walks for all ages and abilities - each walk is graded so you can easily match your ability to the level of walkTopographical walking maps - give you a clear sense of the surrounding terrain with a scale of 1:50 000Free downloadable gps tracks - for the techiesSatnav guidance to walk starts - for motorists 5 car tours and fold-out touring map - for easy reference on your tour Strolls to idyllic picnic spots - enjoy our recommendations for where to picnic along the wayTimetables for public transport - ideal if you want to link two walks or avoid hiring a car on your holidayOnline update service - for the latest information Includes Benidorm, Alicante and Denia town plans The Sunflower Costa Blanca guide is indispensable for hiking in Costa Blanca or seeing Costa Blanca by car. The Costa Blanca is ideal for countryside exploration all year round. Travel only a short distance inland, and the bustle of the resorts is left far behind. You find yourself surrounded by market gardens, orchards and orange groves, while the dark rugged silhouettes of the sierras beckon you close. Wild flowers from the humble daisy to the most exotic orchid abound; the air is filled with the scent of fragrant herbs; birdsong drifts along on the breeze; mountain peaks dominate the skyline. The weather-beaten faces of villagers in the fields break into smiles as you pass by. All these images combine to create an ambience you will find irresistible. Explore the Costa Blanca by car: the drives lead through fertile valleys smothered in blossom or sweet-scented fruit to delightful inland villages. Windmills, waterfalls and snow wells feature among the picnic settings. But the rugged silhouettes of the area's many sierras dominate this landscape - an irresistible attraction for trekkers. Whatever your age or ability we ve got some glorious walks and car tours to ensure you have a memorable holiday in Costa Blanca.

Sunflower Books Tuscany: 8 car tours + 75 long and short walks

This guide book is designed for visitors walking in Tuscany and touring Tuscany by car. While the region’s historic towns and architectural highlights are often the focal points for these excursions, the role of the Tuscan peasant in creating this glorious landscape is stressed throughout — especially in the wealth of background information about Tuscany’s customs and cuisine, flora, fauna and history — all of them illustrated. The book should be particularly suitable for those who wish to combine a visit to Florence with seeing the Italian countryside (you’ll need a good city guide for Florence, while this ‘Landscapes’ guide will show you the best of the rural scene.) Area covered: from the Carrera marble quarries in the northwest down to southern Tuscany, with a particular emphasis on the area round Florence and in the Chianti. The best months for walking in Tuscany are from September to June.

Sunflower Books La Gomera and Southern Tenerife: 6 car tours + 70 long and short walks

NEW EDITION DUE JANUARY 2024.  PRE-ORDR NOW TO RECEIVE YOUR COPY WHEN IT IS PUBLISHED This book is for those staying on La Gomera or in the south of Tenerife (within easy reach of the Gomera ferry). Since the two islands are just a 35-minute ferry ride apart, the book covers walks and tours on both. There are car tours (with picnic suggestions) ranging all over both islands, with pull-out touring maps and plans for the larger conurbations. Walks are described throughout the whole of La Gomera, while for Tenerife there are walks in the south and west. All walks are illustrated with newly drawn 1:50,000 topo maps based on OpenStreet mapping. GPS tracks are available for all the walks, and there are satnav coordinates to the starting points. All ‘official’ signposted and waymarked government trails have been highlighted and numbered on the walking maps – a real plus: if a walker comes across a signpost for a route not fully described in Noel’s text, it can still be used as a short- (or long-!)cut. (Note: those going to Tenerife for a long walking holiday, who will be based in the south, should ideally have this book and 'Landscapes of Tenerife'.) Area covered: The book is divided into two parts. The major emphasis is on exploring the whole of La Gomera by car or on foot. But the Tenerife section of the book is also packed with suggestions: there are tours (from Playa de las Américas/Los Cristianos) covering the whole of Tenerife by car, as well as the best walking in Tenerife’s south and west. The best months for walking on La Gomera and Tenerife are October to June.

Sunflower Books Corsica: Walks And Car Tours

Noel Rochford, who has written several Landscapes guides, found the Corsicans to be the friendliest people he encountered throughout his travels. But the landscapes enchanted him as well: “No other Mediterranean island can boast such a wealth of natural beauty. Beaches to suit every taste: from long stretches of glaring white sand to pink rocky coves. Real mountains — climbers’ terrain — that reach almost 3000m/9000ft. In these mountains you stumble upon a magnificent mixture of pine forests, beech woods, chestnut groves, and coppices of evergreen oaks. Streams bound down the mountainsides; rivers cascade through awe-inspiring gorges, leaving behind blue-green pools as clear as crystal. The pink granite hills and cliffs, normally conjured up only for an artist’s canvas, are real indeed on Corsica.” Once again I am writing to express our appreciation of the excellent series of walk books, this time for walking in Corsica. The guide book really brought the island to life for us and was an invaluable aid and, of course, really enjoyable to browse through before we went. (SM, Abergavenny) Brilliant. This was our first Sunflower guide book and from now on for every walking holiday that series will be our first choice of walking guide. (W, Amazon) Best months for walking in Corsica: In May and June the countryside is enlivened with a tapestry of wild flowers and maquis in bloom. The hills are ablaze with colour and the air is intoxicatingly-scented by the maquis. This is possibly the best time to walk in Corsica, although September and October are also good choices.

Sunflower Books Slovenia and the Julian Alps: 6 car tours + 75 long and short walks

‘Small is beautiful’ certainly applies to Slovenia, which is only half the size of Switzerland. With a population of just two million, the landscape is still essentially rural. The jagged snow-capped peaks of the Julian Alps contrast with fertile valleys, full of colour and activity. Porous limestone rock has created the karst landscape; typical features can be seen everywhere and are exciting to explore — from underground rivers emerging as cascading waterfalls to narrow gorges, caves and rock arches. The mountain valleys are immaculate, with strips of vegetables and corn amidst the hayfields and orchards. There are hop-growing areas and beautiful vineyards. Amongst these industrious people one senses an orderly contentment and a feeling that everything is in tune with nature. Tour Slovenia by car or on foot; the opportunities are endless. This book covers the whole country except for the very northeast and southeast; there is an emphasis on the Julian Alps, with a large-scale touring map. The best months for walking in Slovenia are May and June, September and October. THE guide to Slovenia’s beauty. The book was easy to use, providing us with all the detail needed to plan where to go in Slovenia — from simple short walks/drives to more adventurous challenges along more strenuous routes. We had to decide on the trips that we would hope to complete as part of our 2 week holiday. We could not have chosen a better publication to guide us in those choices. The book was simply the best investment which we made in preparation for what was a memorable trip. (GTK, Amazon) Amazingly accurate. This book was invaluable on our recent holiday to Slovenia. We only did the walks in the area we were staying but they were described in such detail that you couldn’t go wrong. (DEG, Amazon) Area covered: all of Slovenia except for the very northeast and southeast; there is an emphasis on the Julian Alps, with a large-scale touring map The best months for walking in Slovenia are May and June, September and October