I would be inclined to look to Doolin, but September is quite a busy period due to the Listoonvarna festival in the north Clare area, so book ahead.

There's a handy ferry service that would enable you to take a nice coastal drive (www.shannonferries.com) along the N67 next day, right to Kerry.

Tonyirish - our Killarney destination expert is currently away, but should catch up with this when he returns.

Note also :

http://www.aaireland.ie/routes/

I like the idea that you are spending two days in most places. This will give you time to settle in and you can do lots of great day trips from any of the areas you have chosen to stay.

Below I have commented on your itinerary after the ###

Day 1 - Arrive in Shannon 9am, stay in Ennis or Doolin ### I would prefer Doolin and it's not too far from Shannon anyway (40 miles)

Day 2 - Killarney ### 2 Days in Killarney is the minimum time you should spend in the general area as there is lots to do and see there. (Gap of Dunloe, Muckross House and Gardens, Torc Waterfall and Kenmare town to name just 4)

Day 3 - Killarney

Day 4 - Cork or Kinsale? ### This trip I would cut this day out in Cork or Kinsale. It would be better spent in the County Kerry area. One day in Cork is too little, one day in Kinsale is doable, but it depends what you want to do there. Have a re-think about this.

Day 5 - Killkenny ### Two days in Kilkenny area is fine

Day 6 - Killkenny

Day 7 - Dublin ### Two days in Dublin is a good idea, there is lots to do and see there.

Day 8 - Dublin

Day 9 - Head to London for 3 days

As already said make use of www.aaroadwatch.ie/routes it is very helpful for planning your journey.

Just came home yesterday and thanks to everyone for a good trip. After doing this route over 2 weeks there are many decisions to make. I would leave out Cork/Kinsale if I were you and stay an extra night in Doolin. The cliffs are beautiful as is the Burren area. I would stay in Killarney area for three nights ( drive the Beara!) and only one in Kilkenny. We arrived there around mid afternoon spent the afternoon and evening and that was enough for us.

So if I were you

Day 1/2 Doolin

Day 3/4/5 Killarney are (Kenmare is great)

Day 6 Kilkenny (a stop at Cashel on the way is well worth it)

Day 7 and 8 Dublin

Great advice from Bryno as usual!

Peter - welcome back (seems odd to say that to someone who's just left Ireland:) - look forward to the tripreport!

Thanks everyone for your help! I was leaning towards another day in Killarney on Doolin, seems like everyone agrees. We'll have to save Cork for next time!