West Cork Tourism Businesses Unite to Shape Future of Region as Visitor Destination

More than 50 tourism businesses from across West Cork and Kenmare came together at the Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery for a Fáilte Ireland networking event aimed at strengthening collaboration and driving the continued development of West Cork as a visitor destination.

Organised by Fáilte Ireland and supported by Cork County Council, Pure Cork and the West Cork Tourism Network, the event facilitated over 300 individual meetings between accommodation providers, visitor attractions and activity operators, enabling businesses to build connections and work collectively to enhance the visitor experience across the region.

The gathering forms part of the ongoing delivery of the West Cork Destination Experience Development Plan, a long-term framework for sustainable tourism growth and the development of strong, distinctive destination experiences.

Attendees received an update on the Experience Cork marketing campaign for 2026, which highlights West Cork's food, adventure and coastal offer. A keynote address was also delivered by travel writer and broadcaster Eoghan Corry, who outlined the key trends currently shaping the Irish tourism landscape.

Josephine O'Driscoll, Manager of the Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland, said the event "highlights the importance of collaboration in building successful destinations and supporting tourism businesses at a local level."

Nicola Radley, Cork County Council, said:

"Cork County Council recognises the pivotal role tourism plays in communities across West Cork. Events like this are important for fostering engagement, collaboration and innovation across the sector."

Seamus Heaney, Head of Visit Cork, said:

"The unity and enthusiasm within West Cork's tourism industry is clear. This event provides a valuable opportunity to connect and collectively enhance the visitor experience."