This beloved account about an intrepid young Englishman on the first leg of his walk from London to Constantinople is simply one of the best works of travel literature ever written. At the age of eighteen, Patrick Leigh Fermor set off from the heart of London on an epic journey—to walk to Constantinople. A Time of Gifts is the rich account of his adventures as far as Hungary, after which Between the Woods and the Water continues the story to the Iron Gates that divide the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. Acclaimed for its sweep and intelligence, Leigh Fermor’s book explores a remarkable moment in time. Hitler has just come to power but war is still ahead, as he walks through a Europe soon to be forever changed—through the Lowlands to Mitteleuropa, to Teutonic and Slav heartlands, through the baroque remains of the Holy Roman Empire; up the Rhine, and down to the Danube. At once a memoir of coming-of-age, an account of a journey, and a dazzling exposition of the English language, A Time of Gifts is also a portrait of a continent already showing ominous signs of the holocaust to come.
TrilogySeries
This epic travelogue trilogy follows a young man on his adventurous trek across Europe to Constantinople, driven by a profound desire for discovery. Sleeping in humble shelters and grand estates alike, he embarks on a journey rich with unexpected encounters and poetic contemplation. The series masterfully blends historical landscapes with personal reflections, capturing a deep sense of 'Sehnsucht'—a longing for the unknown. It's a vibrant celebration of youth, exploration, and the boundless spirit of adventure.



Recommended Reading Order
- 1
- 2
Between the Woods and the Water
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Recounts the author's 1933 journey down the Danube to Budapest and then across the Hungarian Plain into Transylvania
- 3
The Broken Road: From the Iron Gates to Mount Athos
- 392 pages
- 14 hours of reading
The book, published in 2013 by John Murray in Great Britain, delves into a captivating narrative that explores unique themes and character dynamics. It offers readers an insightful journey through its well-crafted plot, engaging settings, and thought-provoking ideas that resonate with contemporary issues. The author’s distinctive voice and style enhance the reading experience, making it a compelling addition to any literary collection.