Visit Cork Launches 'Experience Cork' Campaign to Boost Activity and Food Tourism

Visit Cork, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, has launched a major new national and international tourism campaign to position Cork as a leading destination for immersive, experience-led travel, while also inviting locals to rediscover what is waiting on their own doorstep.

The 'Experience Cork' campaign celebrates the warmth, wit and welcoming nature of Cork people, alongside the county's renowned food scene, culture, adventure activities and natural beauty. Supported by Fáilte Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Ancient East and Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, the campaign represents a significant commitment to growing activity and food tourism across the region.

Industry research indicates that more than 60% of overseas visitors to Ireland now cite activities and experiences as a key factor when choosing a destination, with experiential travel growing significantly faster than traditional sightseeing holidays.

The campaign includes newly curated itineraries bringing together activity operators, food experiences, cultural attractions and accommodation across the county, making it easy to plan a two- or three-day short break, or a longer escape. Experiences range from island hopping and kayaking to scenic cycling routes, gourmet food trails, heritage explorations and wakeboarding.

Participating businesses have received professional photography and cinematic video production, along with digital marketing workshops and practical guidance to help tell their stories to domestic and international audiences.

Séamus Heaney, Head of Visit Cork, said:

"Visitors today are looking for meaningful experiences, not just places to stay. The Experience Cork campaign showcases the exceptional depth, authenticity and warmth of the region, and the people who make it so special

"Because experiencing Cork isn't just about seeing the sights - it's about diving right in. It's getting out on the water and into the landscape, tasting the flavours of the land and sea, and meeting the locals who bring it all to life.

"Whether guiding visitors through historic streets, introducing the traders of the famous 18th-century English Market, navigating island waters known since childhood, or leading adventures through forests and coastal trails, it is the warmth and authenticity of Cork's people that bring each experience to life - leaving visitors with that unmistakable feeling that draws them back to Cork again and again."

Josephine O'Driscoll of Fáilte Ireland added:

"What makes Cork so special is the sheer breadth of experiences it offers every visitor. Home to Ireland's highest concentration of Michelin-recognised restaurants, and an incredible mix of cafés, food trucks and gastro pubs, our chefs champion local produce and support a vibrant calendar of festivals and markets that celebrate Cork's rich culinary heritage and strong sense of community. Beyond the table, the county offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland with endless opportunities for adventure or relaxation. From kayaking sheltered bays to discovering hidden villages, hiking scenic trails to enjoying local arts and traditional music. Cork blends its scenery, people and food in a way that is uniquely its own."

The campaign will roll out across digital, social and trade channels in key domestic and international markets in the coming months. Curated itineraries and full details are available at www.purecork.ie/ExperienceCork.