Walking Palestine 25 Journeys into the West Bank

A Passionate and practical guide to exploring the natural beauty of Palestine

With the images of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict so dominant in our minds, walking for leisure is the one activity probably least associated with the West Bank region. But Stefan Szepesi’s book wanders well off the beaten track of Palestine as only a synonym for occupation and strife, exploring its inspiring natural and cultural landscape, its intriguing past and present, and the hospitality of its people.

The book takes first-time walkers and experienced hikers, as well as armchair explorers, through Palestine’s steep desert gorges, along its tiny herders’ trails, and over its quiet dirt roads running past silver green olive groves. With side stories and anecdotes on heritage, history, culture, and daily life in the West Bank, the book ventures into the traits and character of Palestine today. Walking Palestine also offers a wealth of practical walking tips, including references to local guides, the West Bank’s best leisure spots and countryside restaurants, and charming places to spend the night.

Stefan Szepesi lived in Jerusalem on and off since 2006, working first for the European Union and then as economic adviser to Tony Blair.