Airfare deals, smaller crowds and year-round attractions make fall and early winter an appealing time to visit Ireland's West Coast.

Shannon is a direct flight from several U.S. cities, and makes a great starting point for a choose-your-own-adventure through a land of natural beauty, history and friendly people happy to share their own favorite part of Ireland.

Head north to hear Gaelic in County Donegal or walk in the footsteps of poet W.B. Yeats in County Sligo. Drive inland to see the monastic ruins at Clonmacnoise or the dramatic Rock of Cashel. Journey south to the coastline of County Cork and kiss the "Stone of Eloquence" at Blarney Castle.

When the day is over, curl up next to a peat fire and plan the next day's adventure. But make sure to leave time for a detour and a deal -- or two.