Books published by Cicerone Press

Guide to The River Rhone Cycle Route, an 895km bicycle ride starting high in the Alps of central Switzerland and finishing at the Mediterranean Sea, near Marseille. The route - which is mostly downhill - is divided into 20 stages (averaging 45km per stage) and can be completed by most cyclists in 12-14 days. The described route uses two waymarked national cycle trails: the Swiss R1 Rhone Route and the French ViaRhona, which together have been adopted by the ECF (European Cyclists' Federation) as EuroVelo route EV17. The guide provides detailed route descriptions and 1:150,000 mapping for each stage, together with plenty of practical advice such as preparing for the journey, transport options there and back, what to take, accommodation en route and more. A Swiss/French glossary is also included. Taking in dramatic mountain vistas, Lake Geneva's enchanting beauty and the coastal delights of southern France, the route showcases some of the region's most spectacular scenery, making it a veritable gem for any tour cyclist looking to stretch their legs in stunning surrounds. If a visual feast is not enough, cyclists can indulge in the gastronomic wonders of the region. And need we mention the fact that the Rhone flows through some of the greatest wine producing regions of both Switzerland and France?

Guidebook offering detailed descriptions of 40 day walks, plus 10 traffic-free cycle routes along old railway trackbeds. Together they cover 450 miles and spread all over County Durham to show the region's history and natural wonders. The terrain covered ranges from field paths to open moorlands, from the North Sea to the high Pennines.

A guidebook to the Cumbria Way, a 73-mile long distance path through the heart of the English Lake District from Ulverston to Carlisle. The route is largely low-level, but this book also describes alternative mountain days which add the Coniston Fells, Glaramara and Skiddaw en route. The guide divides the route into 5 stages of between 12 and 16 miles, but there is plenty of opportunity to plan your itinerary for a more easy-going 7 to 8 days. This guidebook also provides useful information for every stage, from accommodation to available facilities en route, as well as an annotated OS map and details on points of interest.

Guidebook to 80 graded scrambles in Snowdonia, North Wales. This revised edition of Steve Ashton's classic guide is illustrated with photo topos, and includes 16 routes selected by the updaters, as well as all the classic routes including the Snowdon Horseshoe, North Ridge of Tryfan, Bristly Ridge and the Cneifion and Cyfrwy Aretes.

Guidebook to cycling the Loire, France's longest river, from its source in the Massif Central to the Atlantic. The 1061km route incorporates the popular, waymarked Loire a Velo and takes in extinct volcanos, vineyards and chateaux. Predominantly downhill or flat, the route utilises mostly cycle paths and minor roads.

Guidebook covering the best walks to be found on the island of Tenerife. The 45 routes range from simple day walks, to long distance trails along the GR131, and hiking routes on El Teide. Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, boasts walking routes of many types, set in stunning natural scenery.

This guidebook describes the Cape Wrath Trail, a long-distance trek from Fort William to Cape Wrath crossing the wild northwest of the Scottish Highlands. The route is described from south to north in 14 stages, with 6 alternative stages along the way, allowing for a flexible itinerary of between two and three weeks. A long tough trek with no waymarking, this is for the tried and tested backpacker. The guidebook includes OS mapping, route profiles and detailed route descriptions and gives you all the information you need about accommodation (including hotels, bothies, B&Bs and bunkhouses), campsites and amenities en route, to help you plan and prepare for this epic challenge. The Cape Wrath Trail is regarded as the toughest long-distance route in Britain and offers unparalleled freedom and adventure to the experienced and self-sufficient backpacker prepared to walk for many days in remote wilderness. Travelling through the wild and rugged landscapes of Morar, Knoydart, Torridon and Assynt, it will test the limits of your endurance.

Stunning backpacking routes in the Scottish Highlands and Islands are covered in this inspiring, large-format guidebook. 30 routes are described, ranging from 1-4 days, with most suitable for a long weekend. The routes are divided between the Western Highlands and Inner Hebrides, the Central and Eastern Highlands, the Northwest Highlands, the Far North and the Outer Hebrides. They are suitable for those with the experience and self-reliance to navigate proficiently and stay safe in an environment which can easily become inhospitable. Although some routes visit bothies, most call for at least one night's wild camping. Each walk includes overview data, route description and 1:100,000 mapping and they are illustrated with stunning photos. An introduction offers background information about the Highlands' rich geology, plants and wildlife and the historical and cultural context of Scotland's 'wilderness'. There is also practical information on preparing for an incursion and advice for those looking to expand their experience of wild-country backpacking. The Highlands and Islands of Scotland are home to the most ruggedly beautiful, expansive and challenging backpacking country in the British Isles. This is a land for those who love open spaces, vast horizons, and the domination of nature.

This guidebook is volume 2 of a two-part set, detailing 70 routes to 144 Munros in the Cairngorms and Northern Highlands (north of the Great Glen). It includes all the popular routes, in areas such as Knoydart, Torridon and on Skye. The guide is ideal for Munro bagging, or for guidance on walking such hills as Ben Macdui, Cairn Gorm, The Angel's Peak, Craig Meagaidh and the Cuillin on Skye. All routes prefaced by a wealth of information about Gaelic names, accommodation and access; useful 10-figure grid refererences for key points such as summits and start point of awkward descent lines; travel and other information on making the most of your walks and your stay in the area. As well as a thorough introduction covering, transport and accommodation, each route includes information on distance, ascent, and route time; as well as detailed descriptions of the walk. Volume 1 covers the Munros of the southern, central and western Scottish highlands.

Abounding in history and dotted with cols coloured by stories about the world's greatest cyclists, the Route des Grandes Alpes (RdGA) is a must for competent, hill-hungry cycle tourers. Covering some 720km from Lake Geneva (Lac Leman) to mediterranean Nice, the route is described across 14 stages and can be completed in anywhere from 7 to 14 days - depending on how you'd like to spread out the 17,000m of climbing. Six variants are also described, ensuring no holiday is compromised or cut short if a col on route is closed. Clear and concise route descriptions are provided for each stage (and variant), together with 1:150K mapping and extremely helpful gradient profiles. Also included is invaluable practical adviseeverything from bicycle selection (including eBikes) and nutrition in the saddle, to logistical planning and accommodation options. Showcasing some of the world's best Alpine cycling, the RdGA takes in 17 major climbs, including the famous Col de l'Iseran (the highest paved pass in the Alps), the Col du Galibier (favourite climb of Tour de France founder, Henri Desgrange) and the Col d'Izoard (synonymous with cycling legends Fausto Coppi and Louison Bobet). It also passes through some of the most spectacular national parks in France, including the Vanoise, the crins and the Mercantour.

This guidebook describes the classic GR20 trek, a north-to-south traverse of the rugged mountains of Corsica, renowned as Europe's toughest GR long-distance route. Described in 16 stages, some with high and low-level alternatives, the route is roughly 190km in length and takes approximately two weeks to complete. The GR20 climbs high into the mountains. It is a demanding trek suitable only for experienced walkers, and there are several steep 'hands-on-rock' sections calling for a sure foot and a good head for heights. It is possible to stay under a roof every night but many trekkers opt to camp. Step-by-step descriptions of each stage are accompanied by 1:50,000 mapping, together with information on ascent/descent, terrain and the availability of food, water and accommodation/shelter. There is also invaluable practical information such as path conditions, what to take, and getting to/from and around Corsica. Overviews of the history and geology of the island and local plants and wildlife are offered to enhance the trekking experience. Finally, a separate map booklet, included with the guide, provides all the 1:25,000 IGN mapping needed to complete the GR20. Starting in Corsica's northwest, in picturesque Calinzana, the route winds southeast through the heart of the island, finishing on the eastern side, just north of Porto Vecchio in the township of Conca. It showcases Corsica's rich diversity of landscapes and ethereal beauty. Bare rock and sheer cliffs contrast with black sand beaches, alpine pastures, maquis and pockets of forest. There are also opportunities to detour from the route to visit traditional mountain towns and villages for a taste of Corsica's vibrant history and culture and to take in neighbouring summits, including the island's highest peak, Monte Cinto. For those up to the challenge of hiking part or all of the route, the GR20 promises adventure, memorable experiences and rich rewards.

Guidebook to 45 graded circular walks in the Brecon Beacons National Park, perfect for those wishing to discover the diversity of the region, away from the crowds. The routes range from 4 to 24km and cover the north-eastern, eastern and south-western valleys and ridges, Fforest Fawr, Waterfall Country, the Black Mountain (Mynydd Du) and the Black Mountains (y Mynyddoedd Duon). Designed to include all the interesting facts an expert park ranger would provide, the guide contains a wealth of information about local geology, botany, archaeology, history, mythology, industrial heritage and environmental issues. Clear route description is illustrated with 1:50,000 OS Landranger mapping, summary statistics are provided for each walk and handy tables make it easy to compare routes or choose according to points of interest. A useful Welsh-English glossary is also included to help you make sense of local place-names. A remarkably varied landscape, the Brecon Beacons National Park showcases some of the best scenery in Wales. The walks take in mountain peaks and ridges, waterfalls, wooded river gorges and remote upland valleys, with highlights including Pen y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales, and the spectacular Sgwd Gwladus (White Lady Falls), Sgwd yr Eira and Sgwd Clun-gwyn waterfalls. Picturesque market towns on the edges of the park, such as Llandovery, Brecon, Crickhowell and Abergavenny, are also great places to explore and ideal bases for a walking holiday.

The Wales Coast Path offers an unparalleled opportunity to walk a nation's coastline in its entirety. Stretching 1400km (870 miles) from Chester to Chepstow, including Anglesey, the waymarked trail takes 2-3 months to complete but can easily be broken into shorter sections. The walking is generally not difficult, although there are occasional rugged sections, steep ascents and descents and more remote stretches with fewer facilities. Promising fantastic scenery and a unique insight into local history and culture, what better way to experience the diversity and beauty of Wales' captivating coastline?The route is presented in 57 stages, ranging from 16 to 32km, each featuring clear route description illustrated with 1:100,000 mapping, overview statistics and notes on the availability of accommodation, facilities and public transport links. You'll find plenty of helpful advice for planning your walk, plus background information on Welsh history, geology, plants, wildlife and local points of interest. A facilities table, Welsh glossary and useful contacts can be found in the appendices. Passing through the Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire Coast National Parks, as well as numerous AONBs and sections of Heritage Coast, the Wales Coast Path takes in seaside resorts, attractive fishing villages, sandy beaches, rocky coves and striking cliff coastline. Highlights include the picturesque Llyn and Gower peninsulas, 13th-century 'Iron Ring' castles and frequent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The route can be linked with Offa's Dyke Path National Trail (covered in a separate Cicerone guide) to complete a full circuit of Wales.

The Alta Via 1 is one of Italy's most famous and most popular long-distance routes and is the easiest of six Alta Via routes that traverse the magnificent Dolomites. The hut-to-hut trail extends 115km from Lago di Braies to La Pissa, boasting spectacular alpine vistas. Although it demands a moderate level of fitness, it is well waymarked and follows clear well-trodden paths, making for an ideal introduction to trekking in the Dolomites. Welcoming refuges offer meals and accommodation along the way, though camping is also possible on the middle stages (restrictions apply elsewhere). The route is presented in 11 stages, each with overview statistics, a brief summary of the day's walking and detailed route description illustrated with clear mapping. There are also comprehensive notes on the huts the route passes, with contact details and tips on facilities available. The intro includes advice on transport, accommodation and equipment, plus suggestions for creating shorter itineraries should time be limited, and there are facts about local points of interest and background information on the region's geology, plants and wildlife. A handy map booklet is also included, showing the full route of AV1 on 1:25,000 Kompass mapping, so you don't have to carry paper maps. Famed for their striking jagged peaks and sheer rock faces, the Dolomites also bear stark reminders of the turbulent World War I years in the shape of trenches and barracks. The AV1 is a wonderful way to experience the celebrated scenery: (weather permitting) an estimated 80% of the Dolomites can be seen from the trail, with highlights including fantastic views of the Tofane, Pelmo and Civetta and the iconic Marmolada with its glacier. If this is your first visit to the region, you'll soon see why so many fall under its spell!

Guidebook to 30 circular day walks in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The routes, which range from 4 to 13 miles long take in parts of four counties - Berkshire, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire. The walks allow you to explore parts of the Ridgeway National Trail, the Kennet and Avon Canal and stunning historic sites, such as Avebury, the 3000-year-old Uffington White Horse, impressive Neolithic long barrows and Iron Age hill forts. The North Wessex Downs are accessible hills that rise above the towns and rural plains of southern England and roll gently west from Reading and Basingstoke to Swindon and down past Marlborough to Andover. Alongside detailed route descriptions and OS maps, are plenty of details on points of interest, as well as practical information on the area from public transport links, to ideal refreshment stops on each walk. The result is an ideal companion to exploring both the popular and untouched corners of the North Wessex Downs.

King of the Fells. Iron man. Lake District fell running legend. Joss Naylor is all of these things and more. His achievements are astounding, his records stand the test of time. In 1983 he completed the 105-mile Lakes, Meres and Waters (LMW) route in a staggering 19hr 14min and to this day, describes it as one of the best routes he ever ran. High praise indeed and yet, so few know of it. Part guidebook, part inspirational regaling, this book interweaves tales of past and present as Naylor reflects on his 1983 epic on a re-walk 37 years later. In the company of award-winning author, Vivienne Crow, Naylor recalls that magical day, sharing stories and anecdotes from, not just his run, but the 1980s fell running scene, his working life and growing up in the Wasdale Valley. Naylor's tales, together with breathtaking photography, are accompanied by basic guide notes for the LMW route, sticking as closely to his 1983 run as possible. These notes divide the route into ten stages (ranging from 9 to 14 miles), allowing runners and walkers to follow in the footsteps of the King of the Fells, albeit on a more relaxed schedule. From Loweswater to Over Water, visiting 27 of the Lake District's largest bodies of water, the LMW route guarantees vistas of unparalleled beauty and an unforgettable experience in true fell country.

Guidebook describing 24 day walks on Jersey in the Channel Isles. Parts of many routes can be combined to make longer routes, including the 48 mile Jersey Coastal Walk and part of the Channel Islands Way. Walks are between 3 and 8 miles, mainly on good paths and tracks, although occasionally rugged cliff paths explore the beautiful coastline.

This guidebook presents 69 challenging and inspiring routes to climb 139 Munro mountains, including Scotland's highest peak, Ben Nevis. Part of a two-part set, this first volume covers the southern, central and western Highlands (south of the Great Glen), taking in stunning areas such as Glen Coe, Glen Shee, Lochaber and Mull. Covering popular and lesser-known routes, it is ideal both for Munro-baggers and those who simply love great mountain walking, and is a convenient size for slipping in a rucksack. The half-day and full-day walks and scrambles range from 7km to 48km (with the option to reduce walking distance on some of the longer routes by cycling the approach). Detailed route description and 1:100,000 mapping is accompanied by information on difficulty, mapping, parking, access and nearby accommodation. The guide also includes handy lists of Munros, by height and alphabetically - perfect for peak-baggers - as well as useful details on Gaelic names. Including the iconic Ben Nevis, Buachaille Etive Mr and Aonach Eagach ridge as well as the Mamores, Grey Corries and Arrochar Alps, Walking the Munros volume 1 is an ideal companion to conquering the Munros and discovering the magnificent mountain landscapes of the southern Highlands. Volume 2 details the other 143 Munros, covering the northern Highlands, Cairngorms and Isle of Skye.

This guidebook is the ideal companion for walkers who want to explore the western section of Derbyshire's White Peak area. Starting in towns and villages including Castleton, Ilam, Buxton, Tideswell, Hartington and Longnor, these day walks are perfectly suited for year-round trips to the Peak District and are suitable for walkers of all abilities. Across 40 day walks, this guidebook offers a range of routes that showcase the best of the Peak District landscape: rolling green hills rising up to limestone ridges, deep dales with meandering rivers, and limestone caves and pinnacles. There is plenty of history to explore too, with many walks visiting historical sites from Neolithic, medieval and industrial periods. Most of the walks range between 4 and 9 miles and can be enjoyed in 2-4 hours walking. As several start from the same car park or village, many walks can be combined for longer days out. Each walk features clear OS mapping and detailed route description interspersed with insights into the area's history, geology, art and culture, making this a brilliant guide for both navigation and learning about the Peak District.

A fully waymarked trail from Ilkley to Bowness-on-Windermere, the Dales Way links two of England's most celebrated national parks, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. Well served for accommodation and facilities, and with easy walking on riverside paths, it is one of the gentlest multi-day walks in Britain and therefore an ideal introduction to long-distance walking. It can be comfortably completed in 6-8 days. The guide offers comprehensive notes on local points of interest, as well as an overview of Dales geology, history, plants and wildlife to enhance the walking experience. The practical information is all there too, including when to go, how to get there and what to take, making for an ideal companion to enjoying this delightful route. Presented in six daily stages of 7-19 miles (with suggestions for alternative schedules), this guide describes the Way in both directions, with the main route description running from south to north. Step-by-step route description is accompanied by 1:100,000 mapping, and a trek planner, showing where facilities are available, is included to facilitate planning. Accommodation listings and useful contacts can be found in the appendices. A separate, conveniently sized map booklet located in the back-cover sleeve provides all the OS 1:25,000 mapping needed to complete the trail.

This guidebook to walking on the Scilly Isles includes 11 day walks and 4 boat trips, perfect for a fortnight away from it all. The walks are between 1.5 and 10 miles long (2.5km and 16km), and explore the larger islands such as Tresco, St Martin's, St Mary's, St Agnes and Bryher as well as smaller islands in the archipelago. All routes are illustrated with OS mapping and contain lots of background information on the history, geology and ecology of the islands. There is also practical information on public transport services and accommodation. Alongside the walks, which are suitable for walkers of all abilities, are 4 boat trips which explore Annet and the Western Rocks, the Norrard Rocks, St Helens and Tean as well as the Eastern Isles. With their mild climate and relaxing atmosphere, the Isles make an ideal holiday destination, with stunning scenery, rich bird life and myriad wildflowers. Basking in sunshine, rising green and pleasant from the blue Atlantic Ocean, fringed by rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, they reveal their charms to those who walk the headlands, sail from island to island and take time to observe the sights, sounds and scents of the landscape.

The Lake District National Park is England's most popular mountain region and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Suitable for most reasonably fit hillwalkers, the 145km (90 mile) Tour of the Lake District takes in the best of this beautiful region in a circular tour. The route is presented in nine stages, plus an optional 'prologue' stage from Windermere station to the start-point in Ambleside, and can be compressed into one week or extended over two weeks, giving time to visit many attractions on the way. In addition to the main (non-waymarked) route, which links the main towns and valleys of the national park, five interchangeable high-level stages are also offered, enabling you to visit some of the region's most celebrated high peaks - including Coniston Old Man, Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Helvellyn - should you so wish. Each stage includes summary statistics and clear route description illustrated with OS mapping and an elevation profile. There are notes on local points of interest and a wealth of information to help you plan your tour, covering public transport, accommodation and kit, plus accommodation listings and a facilities table. The Tour showcases the magnificent landscapes of the region, from mountain vistas to idyllic lakeshore scenery. There are lakes, rivers and waterfalls, characterful towns and villages, remote valleys, high fells and fascinating historical features including a Neolithic stone circle, packhorse bridges and properties that once belonged to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. There are a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and opportunities to sample delicious local produce. The Tour of the Lake District is an ideal way to discover all the region has to offer and is sure to generate lots of memorable experiences.

Offering 40 day walks in Lancashire, this guidebook explores the often-overlooked regions of Forest of Bowland, Ribble Valley and West Pennine Moors. With walks ranging from low-level valley trails to higher hill routes, this guidebook offers plenty of year-round walking options for active families and committed hikers alike. The walks are accessible from a range of nearby villages, towns and cities including Preston, Blackburn, Burnley, Chorley, Lancaster and Clitheroe. Lancashire showcases some of the most varied walking in the UK, featuring the wide expanse of Morecambe Bay, the Forest of Bowland AONB and limestone fringes of the Yorkshire Dales. These walks travel along green valleys, gritstone moors and untamed hillsides to explore remnants of Lancashire's rich history: The War of the Roses, the Pendle witch trials and the industrial heritage of the West Pennine Moors. Providing detailed route description and clear OS mapping for all 40 walks, this guidebook includes an introduction full of information about the area including accommodation, transport and access. The appendices contain a route summary table to help you plan your days out, while each walk offers notes on wildlife, history, geology and available refreshments.

Guide to 100 scrambling routes in the north of the English Lake District, covering Wasdale, Ennerdale, Buttermere, Borrowdale, Blencathra and Thirlmere. It presents a comprehensive collection of scrambles on crags and gills, which are linked together to form 25 first-class mountain days. The carefully graded routes range from scrambling grade 1 to climbing grade V Diff, so there is something for beginners as well as veteran mountaineers. Rock climbing equipment is needed for more difficult routes. Each scramble is described with notes about grade, quality, aspect and approach, with colour maps and topos to aid navigation. There is information on safety and equipment, and listings of scrambles by location and grade to allow the reader to assemble their own tailor-made combination of routes. The Lake District is one of the most scenic areas in the world and this guide includes popular routes such as Sharp Edge, Cam Crag Ridge and Sphinx Ridge, dramatic gills like Sandbed and Ill Gills, and 28 classic rock climbs including Corvus, Needle Ridge, Grey Knotts Face and Steeple's East Buttress.

Guidebook to the John O' Groats Trail, a 235km long-distance walk from Inverness to John O' Groats in the far north of Scotland. The trail boasts stunning coastal scenery and fantastic cliff-top walking, while attractive towns and villages offer accommodation. It can be completed in around a fortnight.

A concise guide to cycling LEJOG - Land's End to John o' Groats - describing an idyllic route that follows quieter roads and traffic-free paths but without too much meandering. Covering 1000 miles, the route is divided into 14 stages and can be comfortably ridden in two weeks. Easy-to-follow route descriptions are accompanied by clear mapping and useful gradient profiles, together with route highlights and points of interest, of which there are many. Invaluable tips and tricks are also included from preparing yourself to preparing your bike, together with logistical advice such as getting to and from the start and finish, accommodation options and more. In addition to the main 14-stage schedule (which includes an alternative option through Central Scotland), longer and shorter schedules are also suggested, making it easy to prepare a personally tailored adventure. The route, which passes through a diverse range of landscapes, from almost sea level across the Somerset Levels to over 1400ft through the magnificent Cairngorm Mountains, showcases some of Britain's best cycling. It is a must for anyone who's ever been remotely tempted to take on this iconic end-to-end challenge.

The GR7 is one of Europe's longest GR long-distance routes, stretching from Tarifa, the southernmost town of continental Europe, through Spain, Andorra and France to Alsace. This guide presents the Andalucian section of the route, which offers well over 700km of fantastic walking through the diverse landscapes of one of Spain's most evocative regions. The route splits at the small village of Villanueva de Cauche, and the guide describes both the northern and southern variants. Although walking is on good footpaths, country tracks and, occasionally, minor roads, some of the stages are long and can involve considerable ascent, meaning that a good level of fitness is required. The full Andalucian GR7 takes well over a month to walk; however, the guide also includes suggestions for highlight sections that can be walked in a week or fortnight. In addition to clear route description, mapping and elevation profiles, the guide provides background information on local history, plants and wildlife, and advice for planning your trip, such as when to go, what to take and where to stay. The route showcases Andalucia's rich history and culture and varied landscapes, which include pine forests, semi-arid desert, snow-capped peaks, fertile plains, lush valleys, olive groves, cultivated terraces and hills of cork woodland. Historic towns and traditional whitewashed villages offer overnight accommodation and a chance to sample local cuisine.