Round Ireland in Low Gear

In 1978, veteran travel writer Eric Newby and his wife Wanda embarked on a cycling journey around the coast of Ireland. The pair set out to cover over 1,300 miles, bringing minimal gear and relying on local accommodations along their route. The narrative follows their day-to-day experiences navigating Ireland's challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. Through encounters with locals and visits to villages, towns, and historic sites, Newby documents both the physical demands of the journey and the cultural fabric of late 1970s Ireland. Newby's characteristic wit and keen observation bring to life the landscapes, architecture, and personalities encountered during their two-wheeled adventure. His descriptions capture everything from crumbling castles and remote monasteries to village pubs and coastal fishing communities. The book stands as both a time capsule of rural Irish life and a testament to the rewards of slow travel. Through his understated humor and precise detail, Newby illustrates how the simple act of cycling can reveal the true character of a place and its people.

Readers found this cycling travelogue less engaging than Newby's other works. Multiple reviews note the author seems grumpy and tired throughout, complaining about the weather, accommodations, and his aging body. Readers appreciated: - Details about Irish history and folklore - Descriptions of remote coastal regions - Humorous moments with local characters - Companion relationship between Newby and his wife Wanda Common criticisms: - Too much focus on bicycle repairs and mechanical issues - Repetitive descriptions of rain and discomfort - Less adventurous than Newby's earlier books - Limited interactions with Irish people Average ratings: Goodreads: 3.4/5 (64 ratings) Amazon: 3.5/5 (12 ratings) One reader noted: "The usual Newby charm is missing here - he seems worn out and ready to go home." Another wrote: "Worth reading for the Irish history, but not his best travel writing."

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🚲 During this cycling journey around Ireland's coast, Eric Newby and his wife Wanda were both in their 60s, demonstrating it's never too late for adventure. 🗺️ The 1,298-mile journey took place in one of Ireland's wettest summers (1985), with the couple experiencing rain on 27 out of their 38 days of cycling. 📚 Eric Newby was already an established travel writer when he wrote this book, having penned the classic "A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush" and served as Travel Editor of The Observer. ☘️ The route covered all four Irish provinces (Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connacht), providing insights into both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland during a politically tense period. 🌧️ The book's title "Low Gear" refers not only to cycling but serves as a metaphor for the slow, deliberate pace that allowed the Newbys to truly experience Irish culture, history, and hospitality despite challenging weather conditions.