The Hidden Gems of Nature Books

Like most things in life, you have to understand something to appreciate it better. Especially in 2020, when people were forced to stay inside, and the great outdoors suddenly became that much more interesting to some. Well, to really understand the soul of hiking and being in nature, it’s best to do some research. Here are three amazing books to help introduce you to the heart of the natural world.

1. Walden by Henry David Thoreau

Originally published in 1854, Thoreau’s work is one of the greatest books dedicated to simple living in natural surroundings. The book details the two years, two months, and two days that Thoreau spent living in a cabin he built near Walden Pond. With a fantastic style of writing that pulls you in instantly, Walden takes the reader on an adventure inside the mind of a true outdoorsman who has a romantic soul.

2. Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey

Desert Solitaire was first published in 1968, and it is the autobiographical work of American writer Edward Abbey. A true naturalist, Abbey’s style and language isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you keep an open mind, this book has so much to teach you. Today Desert Solitaire is widely recognized as a staple in early environmentalist writing. It focuses on the impact of the desert on society on a multifaceted level. Abbey was a seasonal ranger at Arches National Monument, which was the starting point for his inspiration to write about the desserts of the American Southwest.

3. Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad

Heart of Darkness is one of those books that you didn’t know you needed to read until you read the first page. Conrad’s sheer talent of description has a magnetic pull that keeps you engaged in the story and hungry for more details. The story follows a narrated voyage up the Congo River, which the author himself had once experienced. It’s a fantastic and reminiscent look at a moment in time and a timeless idea of society’s roles.

When many people think of the United Kingdom, they think of one place; London. Sure, London is a bustling city with so much to see and do, but there’s so much more to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland than just one destination.

The Grey Mare’s Tail, Dumfries and Galloway

Scotland is a stunning country that really does need to be seen to be believed, so why not check out the 5th highest waterfall in the UK at the same time? The Grey Mare’s Tail is surrounded by high peaks and low lochs, and the walks around here are unlike any other.

Sunbiggin Tarn, Cumbria

The UK is home to countless lakes and national parks, but there’s nothing quite like Sunbiggin Tarn in Cumbria. This lake is truly something special and surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife. With the snowy mountains in the background and rolling hills beside you, it’s beautiful.

The Bays, Isle of Harris

If you want a beach in the UK that looks as though it could be Barbados, look no further than The Bays in the Isle of Harris. With golden sands and crystal clear water, it’s perfect for those who want to walk along the shore, climb up the nearby peaks or paddle in the water.

St. Martin’s Vineyard, Isles of Scilly

Many people forget that the Isles of Scilly are part of the UK, which means that it’s always quiet. However, it would be a shame to miss out on the stunning St. Martin’s Vineyard. Offering south-facing slopes that transform the place into a tropical paradise, you won’t think you’re in the UK.

Borth, Ceredigion

It’s easy to assume that Wales is always raining, but that isn’t always the case. In fact, Borth looks perfect on a bright summer’s day. From the colorful houses to the marine life that lives along the waterline, you could even spot the famous ospreys.

Ready to explore?