Bob Gibbons – författare

An authoritative photographic guide to Europe’s spectacular Alpine floraEurope’s Alpine Flowers covers the flowering plants and conifers that occur regularly on mountains and in Arctic areas north of a line that runs from the Pyrenees to Southern Romania. For many botanists—and gardeners—the alpine flora is the best it gets. There are many species adapted to a harsh climate of extreme winter cold and strong winds, including some of our most beautiful rock plants, such as gentians, saxifrages, and crocuses. These also include subtle and rare flowers that require care to discover and identify. With outstanding photographs and concise text that covers key features, this guide enables confident identification in the field.Covers the plants most likely to be seen above an elevation of 1,000 metres, concentrating on plants confined to high mountain areas of Europe and to the ArcticMore than 1,800 color photographs illustrating almost 1,800 speciesConcise, descriptive species accounts including details of habitat, altitudinal range, flowering period, and distributionFeatures easy-to-use text with minimal botanical jargon and illustrations of essential biological termsWith sections on flower identification, the alpine and Arctic environments and their habitats, and the best places to see alpine flowersComprehensive index including synonyms

Experience the spectacular landscapes of Nepal’s Annapurna region, where towering Himalayan peaks, terraced valleys, and turquoise rivers create a dramatic backdrop for unforgettable treks. Highlights include the classic Annapurna Circuit, the sanctuary of Annapurna South, and lesser-known routes through the Machhapuchhre region, Lamjung foothills, northeast Pokhara, and the restricted areas of Mustang, Damodar, and Nar-Phu. Discover traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and a wealth of cultural and natural treasures along trails that traverse altitudes from 1,000m to over 5,400m. This comprehensive guidebook presents 14 treks graded from easy-moderate to moderate-strenuous, including four major Annapurna routes and ten additional walks suitable for experienced trekkers. Routes range from 4 to 23 days and offer opportunities to explore high Himalayan passes, lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and remote settlements far from the well-trodden tourist paths. Four classic treks including the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary, offering iconic Himalayan scenery and high-altitude challenges for experienced trekkers.Ten additional treks covering the Machhapuchhre region, Lamjung foothills, Parbat Myagdi, northeast Pokhara, and the restricted regions of Mustang, Damodar, and Nar-Phu.Step-by-step route descriptions accompanied by clear sketch mapping, elevation profiles, and distance statistics to support planning and navigation.Guidance on organised and independent trekking, including accommodation options such as lodges, homestays, and campsites throughout Nepal's Annapurna region.Practical advice on preparation, kit, health, and safety, including acclimatisation, altitude awareness, and seasonal considerations for trekking in the Himalayas.Insight into Nepalese culture, history, plants, and wildlife, with context for monasteries, local festivals, and regional customs along the routes, plus seasonal guidance, highlighting optimal trekking windows for snow-free high passes, rhododendron bloom, and clear mountain views. Plan your Annapurna trekking adventure with confidence using this definitive guidebook, and explore the dramatic peaks, remote valleys, and vibrant cultural landscapes of one of the world’s most celebrated Himalayan regions.