Explore Towns Tailored for Book Lovers

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Explore Towns Tailored for Book Lovers

In today’s digital age, the sensation of turning the pages of a physical book brings a refreshing feeling. Luckily, there are cities and towns around the world that warmly welcome those passionate about reading. Here, bookstores outnumber bars, literary festivals breathe life into the community, and spending an entire afternoon curled up with a book is not just normal—it’s encouraged!

Below are four havens for book lovers, where you can immerse yourself in every chapter and savor the joy of life through the written word.

Hay-On-Wye, Wales

If you find yourself in this "book town," plan your visit during the summer when the Hay Festival is held, usually in May. This annual event, once described by Bill Clinton as the “Woodstock of the mind,” is not just a book festival but also a gathering place for authors and readers to discuss social, political, and environmental challenges.

No matter when you visit, you’re sure to encounter plenty of fellow book enthusiasts making their pilgrimage here.

Shopping

With over 20 independent bookstores lining the charming streets of Hay, you won’t want to miss Murder and Mayhem and Richard Booth’s Bookshop. The former is a haven for mystery novels and crime stories, featuring a delightfully eerie decor. Richard Booth’s Bookshop feels like a dream lost in time, with long wooden shelves, dark leather seating, and creaky wooden floors.

Reading

Make sure to visit Hay Castle, where you can learn some history while searching for the perfect reading nook. Built during the Norman invasion, this castle has now become a cultural and educational center. Relax at the castle café or find a quiet spot in the garden to dive into your book. Don’t forget to stop by the Castle Honesty Bookstore, an outdoor bookstore with no staff, where you can choose your books and pay on the honor system.

Dining

Chapters is a Michelin Green Star restaurant located in the heart of Hay-on-Wye, offering a seasonally changing menu made from fresh local ingredients. Here, you can enjoy dishes featuring local fish, meats, and specialty vegetarian options, all paired with organic wines for a truly local dining experience.

Accommodation

Book one of the 19 rooms at The Swan on Hay, a charming hotel that combines cottage style with modern design. The carefully tended garden, featuring fruit trees and shaded tables, is the perfect spot for those looking to unwind before enjoying a meal at the on-site restaurant.

Hobart, New York

Known as the "Book Village of the Catskills," Hobart is a quaint area filled with enticing bookstores. Nestled in the Catskill Mountains, just about three hours from NYC, it’s the perfect place to spend a day browsing shelves and discovering your next favorite book.

Shopping

In this small town, you can visit all seven independent bookstores. If you’re on the hunt for rare or antique books, William H. Adams Antiquarian Books is the place to be. You can explore three floors filled with publications from before 1850 and related materials from that era.

Reading

Don’t forget to enjoy the fresh mountain air of the Catskills. From Hobart, you can access numerous walking and biking trails, including the 26-mile Catskill Scenic Rail Trail. Take a moment to read by the riverside, in lush green fields, or at quaint little villages along the way.

Dining

Make sure to check out Book Village Inn & Bar, where the creative cocktails are inspired by literature. The menu features Argentinian flavors, including grilled beef and choripán. Relax in the outdoor patio with a drink while reading, or enjoy a cozy evening unwinding.

Accommodation

While lodging options in Hobart are somewhat limited, you can stay at Book Village Inn & Bar in one of its five literary-themed rooms. If you don’t mind a 45-minute drive, Eastwind Oliverea Valley, with 27 luxurious cabins, is a fantastic choice featuring two saunas, a year-round warm pool, and a creative menu.

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Canada’s third-largest city, offers an exciting destination for book lovers with its vibrant energy, a stark contrast to the slower-paced book towns. This bustling atmosphere is a unique draw for anyone who enjoys something fresh.

Shopping

For horror genre enthusiasts, Nocturne Books is a must-visit. This is Alberta's first bookstore dedicated to horror, boasting a rich collection. If you’re looking for local authors, they also feature a program that sells books from self-published authors.

Reading

Calgary has the longest urban pathway network in North America, with over 600 miles of trails. You can explore neighborhoods, parks, and reservoirs while reading on the go. Pack a blanket and your favorite book, and stop at benches or fields to savor each page.

Dining

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on Calgary, reserve a table at Major Tom, located on the 40th floor. Here, you can enjoy upscale dining with panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to try one of the unique cocktails and a serving of Alberta beef, sure to satisfy while you sneak in a few chapters of your book.

Accommodation

The only Michelin-rated hotel in Calgary is a place you won’t want to miss during your visit.

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