Mayo tourism group awarded prestigious European Travel accolade
Mayo North Tourism has been awarded the title of "Best Community-Led Tourism Initiative 2024 – West of Ireland" at this year's European Travel Awards.
This prestigious recognition from EU Business News, a leading publication on European business developments, underscores the organisation’s relentless efforts in showcasing North Mayo and West Sligo’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and the strong sense of community that makes the region truly special.
As Mayo North Tourism celebrates its 10th anniversary, this award marks a significant milestone in its journey.
For over a decade, the community-driven organisation has been dedicated to creating sustainable tourism initiatives that not only attract visitors from around the world but also enhance the lives of residents.
The organisation’s approach goes beyond tourism - it's about making North Mayo a wonderful place to visit, live, and work.
One of Mayo North Tourism’s key successes has been its ability to connect local member businesses with global travel writers, influencers, and online content creators like 'Best of Ireland', 'Sophie Anderton', and 'Roz Purcell'.
These partnerships have helped put North Mayo and beyond on the international map, driving visitor growth while ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are shared across the community.
Reflecting on this achievement, Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, said: "This award is a celebration of our community’s collective efforts.
"Over the past ten years, we’ve worked closely with local businesses, volunteers, and communities to create a truly authentic and enriching experience for our visitors.
"We’ve showcased the essence of North Mayo—its natural beauty, cultural richness, and the warmth of its people.
"By creating a series of videos last year, People & Places of North Mayo, and through activities such as collaborating with travel influencers and leveraging digital platforms, we’ve elevated our local businesses and attractions on a global scale.
"Last year alone, we achieved a social reach of over 2.6 million. But more than anything, we’ve strived to make this region not just a destination, but a place people are proud to call home."
Mayo North Tourism’s success story is one of resilience and collaboration. The organisation has transformed North Mayo into a must-visit destination, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant arts scene.
Their commitment to aligning tourism development with the needs and values of the community has not only enriched the visitor experience but also positively impacted the quality of life for residents.
The European Travel Awards celebrate organisations and groups making a lasting impact in the travel and tourism industry across Europe. Mayo North Tourism’s recognition as the Best Community-Led Tourism Initiative highlights its innovative approach to tourism, which balances economic growth with community well-being.