I'd also recommend a stop over on Craggy Island.

Memories of Ireland -- the pubs, the song, the drink and the boys.

I have very fond memories of my time spent there.

A great article.

This article sells tour agencies and arranged "tours" which is frankly the *worst* way to see Ireland. Having lived in Ireland and visited there many times I can assure you that unless you're a complete spaz, driving in Ireland isn't terrifying, crazy or dangerous.

It is also the only way you're going to get to those spots off the tourist routes that you won't see from a bus or guided tour. So unless you're an older person/persons who shouldn't be driving anyway or who has limited mobility a tour bus/guided tour is the worst way to go.

If you're going to concentrate your stay in Dublin (a big waste of time in my opinion) you don't even need to drive. You can take a bus pretty much everywhere you can't walk.

Go to the NW of Ireland. Co. Clare and north of there. That's where the real Ireland still exists, where you'll find good people, great castles, jealousy-inspiring landscapes and true joy. And drive it so you can stop at the edge of that lake.