Key tour operators were shown some of the highlights of Donegal today during a trip designed to encourage them to promote the north west.
Fáilte Ireland are hosting thirty-five members of the Incoming Tour Operators Association (ITOA) on a familiarisation trip and networking evening which will be held at Solis Lough Eske Castle, Donegal.
The trip showcases the potential of the Wild Atlantic Way north of Galway, which includes Donegal and Sligo. In Donegal, the group spent time on Slieve League Cliffs, had a guided tour of Donegal Castle, enjoyed Irish coffee at Nancy’s of Ardara, spent time with Eddie Doherty weaver in Ardara, and an evening at Harvey’s Point Hotel and Solis Lough Eske Castle Hotel.
Denise Quinn and Lynn Henderson in the towering fireplace during the Failte Ireland Tour Operators visit to Donegal Town Castle. Photo Clive Wasson
Anne McGaughey with the Failte Ireland Tour Operators visiting Donegal Town Castle. Photo Clive Wasson
Anne McCaughey, Castle guide with Svenja Burmeister, Irish Welcome Tours, Amanda Horan, Failte Ireland and corlaie Fox, Irish Welcome tours Failte Ireland Tour Operators visit to Donegal Town Castle.
Photo Clive Wasson
Denise Quinn, Lorna Demmel and Jenny O’Reilly at the Failte Ireland Tour Operators visit to Donegal Town Castle.
Photo Clive Wasson
It is hoped that the influential travel representatives will promote this part of the route as a standalone product internationally.
The ITOA members are said to deliver a great deal of international business to Ireland and can greatly influence their international tour operator partners with regard to how Ireland is positioned abroad.
Failte Ireland Tour Operators visit to Donegal Town Castle –
Vera Hung and James Kenny. Photo Clive Wasson
Larisa Criscen grabs a quick selfie during the Failte Ireland Tour Operators visit to Donegal Town Castle. Photo Clive Wasson
Photo Clive Wasson
Martin Donnelly, Failte Ireland Business Development Manager today said: “By showcasing the Wild Atlantic Way north of Galway and by introducing products and experiences that have genuine appeal for new programmes, we hope to provide these tour operators with a new way to view – and pitch – the Wild Atlantic Way.
“Our Irish incoming tour operators have played a key role in delivering the success we have seen in recent years in our international holidaymaker numbers and we are confident that, through working in partnership with organisations such as the ITOA, we can support future growth as well as ensure we spread tourism right along the western seaboard.”
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