Hi, I would like to share a few great locations that are ideal for relaxing:

Foulksmills, Co. Wexford - Small very picturesque village. Two village bars and 1 shop. There is a river running through the centre. The old mill has been restored and a section has been converted to luxury cottages (http://www.millfarmcottage.com/). Foulksmills is off the beaten track so there will not be many tourists there. This gives visitors the chance to mix with the friendly locals. How did I come across Foulksmills? This is where my mother was born and reared. Foulksmills can also serve as a great base for the south east (Drive to Passage East and take the car ferry to Dunmore East..another hidden gem).

Inistioge, Co Kilkenny -  Small riverside picturesque village. Ideal for relaxing. This is where the film Circle of Friends (with Chris O Donnel and Minnie Driver) was set http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circle_of_Friends_(1995_film). There's a great cafe there where you can have a Clonakilty pudding snack. Try it...fantastic!

Glasson, Co. Westmeath - Another scenic village and the edge of Lough Ree. Unbelieveable scenery. I played golf and stayed at http://www.glassongolfhotel.ie/. You could also spend a few days travelling around the waterways by boat. I think they are easy to hire (http://www.shannoncruisers.com/).

One last point, it is better to rent a car in Ireland in order to reach the nooks and crannies (the real ireland). These places would not be well served by public transport. Relatives on mine used www.carrentaldublin.ie.

Anyway, please let me know how you get on if you decide to take the above trips.

Good luck!