Mayo tourism networking event fosters industry collaboration
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Deborah kilroy of Van Velze's Chocolaterie, one of Amsterdam's favourite chocolate destinations, now recolated to Ballinrobe, presents Daithí Ó Gallchobhair (Fáilte Ireland, Wild Atlantic Way) with a Fáilte Ireland branded chocolate heart to mark the Mayo tourism networking event.Image 2 of 2
Muirtí Ó Cearnaigh (Summer SUP & Kayak), Fionnán Nestor (projects officer, Wild Atlantic Way) and Edward Geraghty (Aerland).FIFTY tourism businesses from Mayo attended a Mayo tourism industry networking event in Breaffy House Hotel, organised by Fáilte Ireland to provide networking opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses in the county to meet and build collaborative relationships ahead of the 2025 season.
The event provided a platform for the industry to network, with the intent of fostering greater partnership and cross-selling between accommodation providers and visitor experiences (including activity providers and attractions).
The ultimate ambition of the event is to create a more connected industry which can attract more visitors to the county, encourage them to stay longer and spend more.
Speaking at the event, Daithí Gallagher, Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way manager, said: “We are pleased to have so many Mayo businesses participating in our annual networking event. By bringing a mix of tourism businesses together, we can help strengthen connections and encourage greater collaboration across the county. This will help to raise the profile of the fantastic variety of accommodation, attractions, activities and experiences in Mayo and encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more.”
Irish biologist, environmental consultant, radio contributor and author, Éanna Ní Lamhna, was guest speaker and she spoke about Mayo’s enviable natural heritage - its long sandy beaches, pristine waters, clean air, scenic landscape, mountain ranges, lakes and forests - and encouraged the industry to think beyond their own businesses to the wider visitor experience and encourage visitors to get out there, go beyond and explore more.
Gemma Jordan, general manager, and Biddy Hughes, head of sales from Westport Estate, also presented to the delegation about the multi-million euro development plans for the estate which have just received planning permission.
Among the key areas of work designed in partnership with Mary Reynolds will be a very different and uniquely Irish landscape experience connecting nature and mythology.
The restoration of Westport House and the reimagining of its 300-year history will also be a strong feature as well as telling the legendary story of Grace O’Malley, the Pirate Queen.