Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and long a Mecca for culture freaks. Sicily 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 national monuments. As an alternative to the stress of simply 'doing' all the sites, he invites you to savour the landscape at leisure. Thus there is enough material in this book for several holidays. The eight car tours (mostly circular and covering 2000km) follow little-used secondary roads wherever possible and, while taking in all the major sights and sites, also allow motorists to see landscapes well off the beaten track. A fold-out touring map shows all the car touring routes. The walks - a distillation of the best on the island - are as varied in length and grade as the landscape itself; there are routes to suit all ages and abilities. Most of the walks are along old farming tracks, stone-laid mule trails and shepherds' paths. Each is accompanied by an up-to-date topographical map, but the author also suggests where you can find other maps, many of which are available free.
Finally, for those who like al fresco dining, there is also a selection of picnic suggestions - ranging from 'official' sites with barbecues to idyllic spots near walking routes.