Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Walking Italy by Rachael Martin is no ordinary walking book. The author provides wonderful extras such as what and where to eat and drink when in a particular location, a range of accommodations, rich cultural traditions, and descriptions of some who ventured before us to further the Grand Tour.

What an appealing book for every skill level! The long multi-day (or weeks or months) hikes with serious elevation gains to the less taxing one-day hikes to the best short sections for a fulfilling short ramble are all meticulously outlined with clear directions and stunning photographs to guide and inspire. More and more are choosing to connect with nature once again which is heartwarming to me as an outdoors woman. Some go on pilgrimages and obtain a Credential or Testamonium. I live near Italy and am blessed to see it at the most untouched, wild and rugged yet wandering into charming hilltop villages or towns jam packed with history is breathtaking.

The author also discusses knowing one's limits, how to prepare, and safety. She includes digital guides for walks and explains mountain classification. I like that she says to just put one foot in front of the other. Walking is therapeutic and excellent physical recovery (speaking from experience).

My sincere thank you to Pen & Sword and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this awe-inspiring book. If this doesn't motivate you to explore Italy on foot, even in tiny distances, what will?

NetGalley, Brenda Carleton

‘Rachael Martin draws on her own experience to narrow the focus to some of the most unmissable regions and trails. Each is explored in enough depth to satisfy the armchair traveller, while there’s plenty of practical detail and advice for walkers planning the finer details of a future trip… Martin's enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, as does her personal connection to the places she writes about. Blending historical background, cultural insight, and up-to-date practical advice suitable for walkers of all experience levels, this travel guide is an indispensable companion for those who want to soak up the best of Italy’s landscapes and culture at their own pace.’

Claire Speak, Editor, The Local Italy

‘A Yorkshire lass, hiking is in Rachael’s DNA, and having lived in Italy for more than 25 years, this captivating country of a myriad of geographical contrasts is now her stomping ground. Walking Italy is a collection of favourite walks, pilgrims’ routes and ancient tracks, each with a fascinating story to tell… Keep this handy, intelligent guide tucked in your rucksack (virtual or real) to step into the shoes of pilgrims and travellers down through the centuries and experience your own modern-day adventure.’

Amanda Robinson, Editor, Italia! Magazine, www.italytravelandlife.com

‘Clearly put together with love and passion for walking and Italy. I enjoyed the historical anecdotes woven into the information, and the references to food and drink in different areas of the country. The writing is entertaining, the photographs are stunning; a perfect book even just for armchair travellers who just want to learn about Italy while putting their feet up.’

Kate Orson, travel journalist

‘Admire the beauty of Tuscany, Umbria or Lake Como from a different perspective, with curiosity, respect for nature and a little sense of adventure.’

Monica Neroni, Lake Como Tourist Guide

‘Two things stand out to me in this excellent, thoughtfully written guidebook: Rachael’s indepth, practical knowledge of Italy and its places, cuisine and traditions, and – as importantly – her deep love for the country and its history, traditions and landscapes. Whether you’re planning your next adventure of simply appreciating the beautiful photos and vivid descriptions of Il Bel Paese, Walking Italy is sure to inspire more than a wee bit of wanderlust.’

Elizabeth Heath, Italy travel writer and owner of Villaggio Tours, Umbria

‘As well as instructions for walks, Rachael also gives a detailed history of each area… I have a huge library of books about Italy and this brilliant book is going to be joining them on my shelves. If you love walking amidst beautiful scenery with the added bonus of good food along the way, this is certainly the book for you.’

Jane Keightley, travel writer and Italy specialist

‘Whether you are as enamored of the pleasures of hiking or walking as the author has been over her lifetime, or an armchair traveller or Italy dreamer wishing for a thrilling read, you might, like me, fall helplessly and gratefully into the fascinating and evocative pages of this deeply knowledgeable guide… Besides the delicious prose and historical perspectives in “Walking Italy,” there are useful maps, links, practical suggestions, and resources for travelers who prefer slow, intimate travel to being hustled on guided packaged tours along the well-traveled tourist paths of Venice-Florence-Rome-home.’

Julia della Croce, award-winning writer and author