My husband and I are landing in Shannon Sept. 4 and heading to Galway for 3 nights at Lawndale B &B. I think we can find plenty to do in that area. Then we have a self-catering for 5 days in Clonakilty from the 13-18. But between those times Sept. 7-13, I still haven't booked. And I am all over the map! I am torn between the southwest and south coasts or going up into the north including Northern Ireland, especially Co. Armagh, where my great grandparents were from. We might also like one night in a castle, to say we stayed in one, lol, but I wouldn't want one like a hotel. I would love to stay in one that still looks like a castle inside. We love the ruins, cemetaries and castles and the coasts. I would love some suggestions!
You are correct that there is plenty to do in and around Galway. In the six days between Galway and Clonakilty you can certainly see Northern Ireland. I think I would break up the long drive down south with a stop in a midway point. Other than that, head north. And do see the Antrim Coast as it is fab.