Travel industry workers in geopark familiarisation trip

Travel industry workers in geopark familiarisation trip

14 May 2025

REPRESENTATIVES from the UK travel industry got up close and personal recently with the spectacular beauty of the district’s Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.

The familiarisation trip was organised by Tourism Ireland Great Britain and Tourism Northern Ireland.

The two leading organisations responsible for developing and marketing tourism across the island of Ireland joined forces to design the geopark trip to expand product offerings and increase visitor spend in an area rich in natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

The outdoor activity and adventure-focused visit showcased the area’s exceptional tourism potential through immersive experiences. 

From seaweed foraging, wild river dipping to electric bike rides, participants received hands-on insight into the region’s diverse and marketable experiences.

This trip is a strategic step by Tourism Ireland Great Britain and Tourism NI to deepen travel trade awareness and equip travel agents with first-hand knowledge to better sell the region as a premier outdoor destination. 

The itinerary was designed to inspire new packages and itineraries, ultimately supporting local tourism providers and increasing footfall to the region.

Council chairman, Pete Byrne, was delighted to be involved in what he described as this “fantastic initiative” from Tourism Ireland Great Britain and Tourism NI.

“Mourne Gullion Strangford is an area of outstanding natural beauty, culture, heritage and adventure,” he said.

“By giving travel professionals the chance to experience it for themselves, we are ensuring our unique landscapes and welcoming communities are firmly placed on the map for UK visitors. This familiarisation trip is an important investment in our region’s tourism future.”

Participants said they felt the warm hospitality of the region’s tourism providers, experienced accommodation options tasted the local cuisine and engaged with local experiences ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the area’s tourism assets and potential.

Council officials said the trip reflects growing demand for sustainable and nature-based travel and reinforces the strategic importance of Mourne Gullion Strangford as a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s outdoor tourism appeal.