Travel expert encourages British holidaymakers to explore wonders of Mayo

TOURISM Ireland has unveiled a new partnership with The Independent and respected travel journalist Simon Calder to encourage travellers in Britain to consider a holiday or short break along the Wild Atlantic Way, including in Co. Mayo.

Tourism Ireland in London invited Simon Calder to come and film at a range of locations along the northwest section of the Wild Atlantic Way. The resulting content - which includes five articles and five videos, as well as an interactive map pinpointing the various places that Simon visited - appears as a specially-created Wild Atlantic Way hub on the travel section of The Independent’s website (https://www.independent.co.uk/topic/tourism-ireland).

Simon and his crew filmed at a range of locations in Mayo, including Blacksod Lighthouse, Achill Island, the Mayo Dark Sky Park and Croagh Patrick. Simon also met with flute player Laoise Ni Chionnaith in Cobbler’s Bar in Westport to speak about the community of musicians in the town.

The articles highlight some of the many things to see and do along the Wild Atlantic Way, with the accompanying videos featuring interviews with locals and breath-taking footage. Simon tells readers all about 'why the northwest coast of Ireland has managed to provide inspiration and respite for authors, musicians and movie makers for so many years'.

Julie Wakley, Tourism Ireland’s head of Great Britain, said: “Our partnership with The Independent is an excellent opportunity to highlight the wonders of the Wild Atlantic Way - with a special focus on the northwest section - to holidaymakers in Britain. It’s a great way of showcasing this part of Ireland to a large audience of potential British visitors, helping us to spread the word about what makes a holiday in Ireland so memorable.

“We know that the fantastic content captured by Simon Calder will inspire his readers to come and follow in his footsteps.”