The book is a gripping description of a mountain hike of nearly two
weeks made from France's Chamonix to Zermatt in Switzerland. The trip
encompasses the approximately 170-kilometer Haute Route, which advances
in the mountain range. Every day on the hike a mountain is crossed, or
even three. The text relays situations that arose along the way and
conversations with hikers from around the world, all described in a warm
and humorous tone. The writer contemplates the choices a hiker must make
and many other matters worth pondering. The book is based on writings
made in the evenings after a day of hiking and they vividly reflect the
honest thoughts of the writer at the time. Practicalities are featured
prominently in the text, as the hike involved day-to-day decisions of
accommodation and route choices. The text is not solely limited to the
route in question but includes elements and themes from previous
mountain hike experiences. In addition to providing information on the
progress made during the route, the text gives insight into practical
matters, including equipment, accommodations and securing lodgings. The
book makes for a splendid read for those planning a mountain hike and
even for those hoping to make the journey from very place they are
sitting in. The book includes over a hundred photos, maps and relevant
information regarding the days of hiking.
