areas of great natural beauty and historical interest - are those the authors believe offer the greatest sense of satisfaction for the effort involved. These are not tough GR routes, but mostly circular walks suitable for moderately fit people. There are also restaurant recommendations for each tour. Beginning at Nice and the Riviera, you head north and west through the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes de Haute-Provence (highlights include the Mercantour National Park, Grand Canyon du Verdon and a journey on the Train des Pignes). Beyond Var, with its unspoilt coast, the book takes you round the Montagne Ste-Victoire to Aix-en-Provence.