Books we are recommending now
Book of the Month
As summer's warmth begins to mellow into autumn's crisp promise, September offers that perfect window for ambitious travel planning. The shoulder season beckons with fewer crowds, gentler temperatures, and that particular clarity of light that makes every landscape more vivid. This month, our selections celebrate destinations coming into their own as the peak season fades.
Our overall pick, Gillian Gloyer's extensively revised Albania from Bradt Guides, couldn't be more timely. Albania has quietly emerged as one of Europe's most compelling outdoor destinations, and this eighth edition arrives just as savvy travellers are looking beyond the well-trodden paths of mainstream Europe. With its combination of dramatic alpine terrain, pristine coastline, and rich cultural heritage, Albania offers the kind of authentic adventure that feels increasingly rare on our crowded continent.
September is traditionally when we begin plotting next year's adventures, poring over maps by the fire as evenings draw in. Whether you're dreaming of Balkan peaks, planning a long-distance trek, or simply seeking inspiration for weekend rambles closer to home, this month's selections offer both practical guidance and that essential spark of wanderlust. Each title has been chosen not just for its usefulness, but for its ability to transport you—mind first, boots to follow.
The pick of the month
Albania
Also worth your time
Our picks by category
Kent (Slow Travel)
Simon Richmond
Gillian Gloyer's Albania exemplifies everything we value in outdoor travel guides: authoritative research, practical detail, and genuine enthusiasm...
Read moreThe archive
Previous months
Keep browsing