Can someone suggest the best location to stay while in Ireland this summer?

Question

I am planning a trip this June to Ireland with my family and would like some feedback about where would be the best place to stay during our visit. Someone mentioned the West Coast, but where should we start? What airport should we fly into and how far without a car to arrive at our destination? We have about 10 days before heading to a new location. Beauty, castles, and fun for a family of 5 would be wonderful (4 adults and 1 teenager). Also trying to find lodging. I do hope someone can help :)

Answer 1

Fly into Shannon, grab a bus (right outside the airport...ask information) to GALWAY.  Get some rooms at a bed and breakfast (there are hundreds of them...grab a directory at the airport) or a hostel or hotel.  From there you can grab bus tours to some castles, the Cliffs of Morher (sp?), the aran Islands (much fun and bike riding), and other places.  Galway is the perfect jump-off point for a bunch of day trips.  It's also really fun and charming on its own.