I'd recommend,if you can, flying into Shannon and out of Belfast. It may be a little more in terms of airfare, but not likely too much. Check rates for dropoff on rental car, as well. I found it was worth it, but your mileage may vary!


County Clare is lovely. You'll have no end of exploring the Burren in your time in Lisdoonvarna. We've stayed both in Ennis and in Ballyvaughan. The smokehouse is great for shopping. Check out the Burren Perfumery for something different. Lots of walking places. Ailwee Caves, Poulnabrone Dolmen, but there are many more sites.

Connemara is another garden spot. If you like the movie The Quiet Man, see Cong for filming locations. Dog's Head Bay is a great drive. Just pick a road and explore!

Westport - one of my favorite towns. We've stayed there twice, and it's a great place for food and nightlife as well as trad music. Matt Molloy's pub!

Donegal - We've stayed both in Ardara (loved Nancy's Pub!) and Bunbeg. I recommend both. The coastline is amazing. Do not miss Slieve League or Glencolmcille. Glenveagh Park is also amazing, and Mount Errigal/Five Sisters area. If you have the time, Inishowen is sublime. Grianan of Aileach is another fantastic site. I loved Beltany Stone circle, too.

The Antrim coast - We stayed in Cushendall at the Riverside B&B and did day trips along the coast and through the glens. Glenariff park is a great place for gentle hikes, so many waterfalls. Lots of Game of Thrones sites. I sought many of them out on purpose (If you want my trip report, I'm happy to share).

As answered elsewhere. "Better to explore the Connemara from Clifden than Westport. Given the area you want to cover moving rather than sitting is the best logistical way to go." This map might give some points of interest along your possible routes https://goo.gl/xrDQtD also includes links to maps for West Clare https://goo.gl/UtW24m and the Connemara https://goo.gl/UL09QA