Backpacks, Boots and Baguettes

by Simon Calder

Traces the authors' trek along the G10, the French Ramblers' Federation's preferred route through the Pyrenees, a trail that can be both treacherous and exhilarating.

Genres: Travel, Walking

272 pages, Paperback

First published December 9, 2004

About the author

Simon Calder (1955-) is free-lance British travel journalist and broadcaster.

Reviews

[Max Deacon-Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pleasantly nice tale of different aspects and cultures across the Pyrenees. It's not a hard sell on hiking, with various sections of hitchhiking/taking public transport, but it also doesn't pretend to be a purist guide book of every section of the GR10.
Ultimately it ticked the boxes of what I'd wanted - something light-hearted, with moments of interest, and gently nudging me towards getting some trainers on and booking a flight to Biarritz 🚶

[Angie Quantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this well-written, informative, interesting story of Simon's travel adventures with his father. Each chapter told me about a different location and many included tales of new friendships, meals, sights and sounds, and enticing tidbits specific to the locations. This is a great book to read for those who love travel or learning new things about new places. A fun feature is the addition of several coloring pages spread throughout the book, with plenty of blank pages for young readers to add their own artwork or travel entries. Engaging and easy read! Two thumbs up!

[Jennifer Plested · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the idea of reading travel books, but rarely choose to actually read them as I have found them harder to get drawn into than cosy crime, which I usually read. This was a good bit of escapism during a tough patch of anxiety. It was quite comical how many times they got a lift or public transport and the GR10 really needs to sort out their signposting :)

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

Would be good to delve back into as and when I decide to do a walking trip to the Pyrenees. Thought both authors included a good mixture of history, walks and good old fashioned banter. Has given me some inspiration for the future!

[Ms6282 Slater · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit disjointed and they seem to spend more time hitch hiking than walking. When they actually walk they seem to have a litany of problems so it’s not a book to encourage someone to get out and enjoy a walk in the mountains

[Wisecordelia]

I have an ambition to walk some of these paths thus my interest. Simon Calder also frequents our local Thai cafe. I particularly enjoyed his accounts of managing to get through to broadcast on Radio 2 against all odds.

[Lorraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

entertaining read but got a bit slow towards end

[Cecilia · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Map in the book would have been helpfull. Enjoyable read.