All I want is a steak and my pillow, in that order. This last day of our four day bicycle tour from the north to south coast (340 miles) has been stunning, exhausting, challenging, fast and slow, high and low, satisfying and hunger-inducing. By the end of the ride I was craving a protein-rich meal and steak was my dreamy first choice. Once I indulged in a juicy sirloin, the world was right again.

Nutrition for cyclists is an important topic; and one of which I make no claim of authority. But a quick Google surf will tell you that post-ride, an athlete needs a specific balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat. Chocolate milk is a popular and quick go-to recovery food. Livestrong.com suggests that a “4:1 ratio of carbohydrates and protein works best” (click here for article). Bicycle.com also offers many great resources. If you are biking long distances or exerting yourself over 90 minutes, you will be wise to learn more about how to fuel for and recover after the rigorous activity.

In summary of our four-day adventure, here are some photos to highlight Ireland’s stunning beauty. Scroll further for a few humorous ones. (Hover over each photo to view the caption). Photos updated June 19 to remove duplicates.

The north coast at the Giant’s Causeway was our starting line

Dunluce Castle

Along the north coast

Dunlavin, perhaps the smallest of towns, offered the biggest memory with Chris & John (see Day 3) and the most incredible apple pie I have ever eaten.

A picturesque thatched-roof pub alongside a rural road.

Another random stop at a graveyard in Laois.

A compelling stop atop the bridge; I believe it was in Clonmel.

An Irish finish line!

In honor of the many warm, charming and funny Irish people (and sheep) we encountered along the way, here are some humorous ones to remind us to take neither life nor ourselves too seriously …

I could not stop laughing when I saw this “Elderly people” sign, so I convinced Michael to extend the humor with a pose.

Why fuel with carbs when Cadbury’s is readily available?

I’m not sure which is funnier; traffic that needs calming or children that we must beware of!

Discovering that our mechanic, “Scully”, ranked as a general in the Royal Marines, Michael (formerly a lieutenant in the Taiwanese army) took every opportunity to show his respect.

“If you want to live a good life, drink loads of poteen!” – John (right), cyclist from Dunlavin

Thanks for following me on this fun and light-hearted trek through beautiful Ireland. If you have specific questions, feel free to post a comment below and I’ll be happy to reply with learnings from our experience.

Ireland by Bike Series:

• Wanna Come?
• Arrived!
• It’s Go Time
• Day 1 Done!
• Day 2: Survived!
• Day 3: High Nellies!
• Day 4 – Give Me a Steak and No One Gets Hurt

Author: Carolyn @ RideLikeAGirlPortland.com

I am an avid cyclist, passionate about training and encouraging other women to discover the joys of cycling. I believe that if women have a learning environment that feels safe, is fun and includes the support of other women, they will naturally Learn, Laugh and Love it!