Travel Review: Luxury Ireland Self-Drive Tour, Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland, Dublin, Belfast, Donegal, Clifden

We enjoyed the castle hotels particularly the hotel in Donegal for its luxury accommodation, dining options, ambience and service. The doorman was welcoming, helpful and humorous. Ballynahinch Castle had four walking trails on its extensive grounds. We saw a salmon jump out of the river too quick to be caught by a guest fly fishing. By chance Clifden, the charming town nearby held an Arts Festival the day we visited! The castle near Cavan was charming with interesting antiques. Our  room looked out on the flowered terrace and immaculate golf course.

In Dublin we liked the range of food from great pub food at the Ginger Man to Art Tea. The pastries inspired by the hotel's art collection were exquisite and delicious! The National Museum of Decorative Arts and History and Trinity College's Long Library and Book of Kells were highlights as well as Jameson, Guinness and the walkable streets of Dublin. We met informative and witty taxi drivers and friendly hotel staff and shop keepers who added to our Ireland experience. The hotel in Belfast was a great hotel for its location and its history. Valet car parking was excellent and the Piano Bar's ambience, street view and menu were just right after a day of sight seeing.