Travel Review: Luxury Ireland Vacation, Dublin, Belfast, Derry, Connemara, Croagh Patrick Climb, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry

The private driver was worth his weight in gold.  He was so knowledgeable about all aspects of Irish culture, history, politics, art, food, etc.  We spent most of the driving time asking questions and learning more than we ever thought possible about Ireland.  One of the most interesting parts of the trip was getting lost while trying to find an obscure town in County Donegal where my wife's family came from.  During that afternoon we met half the town, likely found my wife's family's former home and met one of her distant relatives (probably).   This unique experience would not have been possible with a larger tour company.  

The Antrim Coast (in Northern Ireland) was stunningly beautiful since we had really nice weather.  Climbing Croagh Patrick was challenging but absolutely worth it.  I would recommend the Slieve League Cliffs just for the experience of climbing up to them.  We were blown away by the vista as you come around the corner to them.  The time we spent at Ashford Castle was a luxurious high point and felt like a dream.