We went in October 2000 for 8 days- we drove alot- started in Miltown Malbay in Clare- mt great-grandfather Kelly emigrated from there- and I still have relatives around the area. Found some in Ballard Cemetary. Went to Corofin, through Galway to the Connemarra Mts- toured an old mine, saw the "Quiet Man" bridge and on to Clifden. Turned around went through Clare again, Cliffs of Mohr, played golf at Lahinch- then to Killarney, Kilkenny, around back through Limerick to just outside Shannon. Then flew home.
Stayed in bed/breakfasts, took back roads, used a map from Borders- ate at pubs. A wonderful experience!
Looking back- I wish I concentrated on a smaller area so I can just take in the scenery and culture- especially around Miltown Malbay. You may want to do that as well- immerse yourself in the culture. That was my favorite part- we intentionally stayed away from the big cities.