Vagabond: A Hiker's Homage to Rural Spain

Thoroughly enjoyed this. Very inspiring

This is my first travel writing book, and initially, I was very reluctant to pick it up (let alone review it). I am delighted that I decided against my initial thoughts and read about the adventures of our solo hiker, Mark Eveleigh.We follow him from Gibraltar in the south to Estaca de Bares, Spain's northernmost tip, as he attempts a 1225 km hike with only the essentials (his backpack, hammock, water, and some instant coffee sachets). Along the way, he experiences rural Spain, offering a glimpse into everyday life and cultural celebrations like la fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe and the seasonal crop of first communions (the Partridge). He sleeps in eucalyptus woodlands, encounters Roman garrisons and ruined fortresses above cornfields, bathes in rivers, and chases a taste of Spanish cuisine—though not very successfully, given the culture of siestas meaning most kitchens are closed when he needs lunch.What I love about this book is that I felt like I joined the author on his journey. I was lost in the descriptions of beautiful Spain, felt the heat of the relentless sun throughout his trip, and wanted to be part of his endeavor across the Iberian Peninsula. I also enjoyed learning about various Spanish towns and villages, where Eveleigh shares information about the region, legends, and cultural facts.In short, I definitely recommend this book. It reminded me of the great value of enjoying life and, most importantly, every step of a trip, actively choosing to slow down in a world where fast has become the inescapable default.

A thoroughly good and interesting read. I felt the extreme scale of the walk itself was clear without being over-emphasised and the variety of conditions and encounters/anecdotes along the way were intriguing and very often humorous. Very well done, on both the walk and the book!

This is not my usual kind of read but I always like to try a different genre when I can. I am glad I gave this a go as I have huge respect for Mark for doing this epic journey but also for writing about it too. A true story at it's best, Mark is on a solo hike with just a backpack and hammock, we see him meeting people and how kind some people are too him. It is a long old hike and I cannot believe what he went through, but he is a true inspiration in my eyes. Whilst this is not my usual read there is something that drew me into reading this book and I am so glad I did. Thank you for sharing your story Mark.

Beautifully descriptive and evocative, a wonderful read. If you love travel books you will enjoy it or if this is your first travel book it is a lovely one to start with,

What a fabulous read. Eveleigh takes you on an intimate journey with him with vivid descriptions of a remarkable achievement. Wonderful historical and vernacular discovery through his deep knowledge of rural Spain. Funny and painful at times, you feel every blister, his dry thirst when water is scarce, and then the delicious food and drinks of Spain in the cool shade of a village bar. A must read for travel and adventure fans.

I loved this book, every page kept me interested and made me excited to venture! Exceptional travel read.

Well written, enjoyable to read and informative.