I spent the month of July in Ireland this summer and I would agree with the other Carol that Glendalough would be a wonderful place to visit that is easy to get to from Dublin (LOVED county Clare as well!). We spent 4 nights at the Glendalough River House B and B within walking distance (2 km along a lovely green road in the woods) of the famous monastic city and many wonderful hikes. The Wicklow Mountains are fantastically beautiful, and there are many small towns throughout.

The driving isn't as difficult as the guide books say, but I would not want to drive in Dublin.

hope this helps, Susan in Maryland