ionastation

We are a couple in our late 50's. We have budgeted 6-7 days of our 14 day trip to Ireland to see the west and south-west coasts. We have use of a rented car. We will arrive in the Galway area on July 10 and return to the Dublin airport on July 15. As we are travelling in a counter clockwise direction, our return to Dublin will be from the Cork area, We would like to see the popular spots such as Connemara,the Aran Isles, the Burren Peninsula, the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Ring of Kerry etc. We'd like to see a bit of Galway, but, as North Americans, the traffic/ parking make us a bit nervous. We were hoping fellow travellers could recommend which areas might work best as a base/ bases along the way (i.e. 3 nights in Galway, 3 nights in Killarney). Lodging recommendations would be gratefully received - we generally try for 4 star accommodation.

Tony2phones

3nights Galway and 3 nights Killarney would work but I would pinch a night from one or the other to split that drive. Have a night in Ennis or Adare (all points between) Then Drive round Dingle on the way to Killarney. Galway and Killarney accommodation is plentiful but I recommend you find find somewhere which offers Parking and is central to the evening/nightlife

IrelandAine

Galway is a great base for a few days - try for the raddisson blu hotel (a little pricy, but have a great spa); the Harbour Hotel (more reasonable but still a nice hotel); the G hotel (5 star; expensive but a great hotel, if a little out from the city centre)

for eating out in Galway, there is a fantastic restaurant called Rouge on Domnick Street - really reasonable prices, food and atmosphere is special! McSwiggans is a favourite for really good food also

From Galway, you could easily do day trips out to Connemara, particularly when you are driving.. aran islands also... if you left galway early on your last morning, you could take in the cliffs and the burren on your way to the south - it would be a lot of driving but the stops en route would break it up nicely, and it is a scenic drive down..

Parmenter

Three nights in Galway as a base sounds a bit much. I would suggest perhaps spending those nights in Connemara or spend a night on Inis Mor, Aran Islands. If you want to stay on one of the Aran Islands do book ahead, perhaps the TI in Galway or online.
I hear what you say about 4 star accomodations but good B&Bs are good value for money and allow more contact with Irish culture and the colorful locals.
Driving distances can be quite deceptive in Ireland & lacks an extensive super highway system and you will be there in about high season. Main roads can become the local main streets as they pass through villages and towns so don't try to do too much. However, I believe you will find driving in Ireland fun and easy once you adjust and the passenger can serve as a dutiful co-pilot.
For a unique experience consider a boat ride to Skellig Michael from Portmagee near the Ring of Kerry.

ionastation

Thank you very much for your suggestions. We sincerely appreciate your assistance.

TPAYT

I would stay in Kenmare. Killarney was a traffic nighmare. This was one of our favorite B&B's in Kenmare. Best restaurant, Mulcahy's in Kenmare.

http://www.shelburnelodge.com/

The Dingle Penninsula was our favorite drive (ROK again, a traffic nightmare.) This B&B was another good choice. Best restaurant, Out of the Blue in Dingle.

http://greenmount-house.com/

Here's our trip report that will hit some of the places you've listed.

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-surprises.cfm


Driving is doable but everything takes longer than you plan for. Our Sept.'10 trip was so enjoyable that we returned in May'11 and now we are planning another visit to see more. Ireland is a very beautiful, friendly place.