Book Review

Reviewed by Peter Hinds

Walking in Austria

Author: Kev Reynolds. Publisher: Cicerone Books

There aren't many good books to give one an idea where to get started in walking in Austria. Most people I come across use Allan Hartley's guides, Cecil Davies and (occasionally) Jonathon Hurdle. So this new book makes a welcome addition. It is a good general introduction to mountain walks in Austria.

There's something in this book for everyone. As a first introduction to the Tirol it is ideal as it includes suggestions for the main mountain groups ranging from easy day walks (and there are plenty of these) through to demanding treks. If you're new to the Austrian Alps this will get you started. There's enough information about getting to the start and background to bring the walks alive.

The old hands will find something new; there is always somewhere fresh to try and walks are not always obvious. What is particularly nice is that it includes suggested treks in 'easier' areas such as Saalbach alongside summaries of the well-known higher 'rucksack' routes. For these, the author wisely refers to Allan Hartley's guides. For my part, any book that recommends a day walk to Winnebachsee Hütte (route 20) is bound to be a winner.

Where the routes include hazardous passages (e.g. the Jubiläumsteig) in the Kaisergebirge (route 64) the warnings and advice are clear.

What this book isn't is a comprehensive guide; it's not a Wainright. There is no space to look at alternative routes, but having said that the 101 suggested walks are very well laid out in the familiar Cicerone style. Some mountain groups that provide excellent walking are omitted e.g. the Karwendal, Verwall and Lechtal, which is a pity.

If you're interested, be aware that Cicerone offer 25% club discount off the £17.95 purchase price.

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