Driving in Connemara or hiring a driver?

I've never hired a driver, but of all the parts of Ireland I've driven in, I would have least needed one in Connemara. There is very little traffic anywhere, and the area is very wide open and scenic. You don't find the stone walls on either side of the road like other areas, either.

Automatics do cost more, but I've never had trouble getting one when I wanted one. In my opinion, they are worth the added expense. It's just one less thing to deal with while driving on the other side of the road (unless you drive a manual at home).

If you have had experience in driving on the wrong side, you can drive in Ireland. However it can still be stressful.

You can request automatic, but often you won't get one; so don't count on it. I would suggest you investigate the cost of hiring a driver on the web.

You may decide you will prefer to ride public transportation (rail or bus).

I'm not entirely sure which is more cost effective, but I wouldn't give up the indpendence driving on your own gives you.

We drove through the Connemara in late April, and it was one of our favorite experiences in Ireland. It was so beautiful and peaceful, and like Nancy said, is an easy spot to drive in.

I don't think you need experience to drive on "the other" (not "wrong"--there's no right or wrong, it's just different), I think you need confidence. My husband had never driven on the left, and it took a day or so to get really comfortable, but after a while, you don't realize you're driving any differently than you do at home.

We also had a manual, as it was cheaper and we have a manual car at home. If you're not used to driving a manual--or have never driven a manual at home-- yes, I can see how it might be cumbersome. In that case, I would recommend an automatic.

Nancy, I agree with the excellent advice already offered especially that Connemara is very easy in all respects... as for driving on the left... bring a pad of 3X5 post-it notes and put one on the steering wheel and over the glove compartment saying "Think Left'. Make sure you stop off at Cong and Ashford Castle if you have the time. George

Good idea, George. And actually, our rental car had about four notes already stuck on the car that said "drive on the left." One even reflected from the dash into the window! Not sure if all rental cars are like that, but it does come in handy.

I found driving in Ireland stressful until I got to Connemara, then it was actually fun!