Fáilte Ireland today announced the Irish winner of their “European Destination of Excellence” (EDEN) competition with Loop Head in Co. Clare awarded the title of European Destination of Excellence – Aquatic Tourism. Currently held in 22 European States, the competition is funded and organised by Fáilte Ireland and the European Union.
The competition was looking for a sustainable tourism destination in Ireland which demonstrated an innovative approach to aquatic and marine tourism. The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Mary Hanafin, T.D. congratulated all of those involved in the Loop Head Tourism initiative."This is the fourth year of the EDEN competition and I am delighted that Ireland has been involved in this EU initiative from the outset" the Minister stated.
"We have wonderful natural assets in this country which are a magnet for visitors from home and abroad. This competition, which is growing in stature each year, showcases the very best in aquatic tourism. The Loop Head Tourism project shows the significant achievements that can be made when the local community and tourism enterprises strive together. I have no doubt that the winning of this prestigious award will have real benefits for the local tourism sector in Co. Clare and Ireland generally."
The adjudicators were particularly impressed with the energy and enthusiasm of the local groups and the range of aquatic activities/services that are available on Loop Head Pennisula.
Fiona Monaghan, Head of Operations for Fáilte Ireland in the West believes that the Loop Head Peninsula is a worthy winner –
“The community network, innovation, promotion and safeguarding of their local area was considered outstanding, and in the end led to success for Loop Head in this competition.”
She continued -
“The sustainable management and promotion of the aquatic and marine environment is critical to the island of Ireland. We are delighted that Loop Head Peninsula will be representing Ireland at the EU Tourism Day in October, and this will be just the start of a valuable cross learning initiative with other similar EU destinations. Participation in initiatives, such as this European Destination of Excellence Competition, can only boost the profile of these destinations and generate tourism revenue.”
The Loop Head Peninsula is located in Co. Clare and offers a range of aquatic tourism products such as sea and cliff angling, whale and dolphin watching, sailing, diving, and spectacular coastal walks. The destination is already famous with geologists and birdwatchers and it also has a number of festivals during the year which incorporate activities from underwater treasure hunts to traditional currach building.
As this year’s winner, the tourism destination will receive an additional boost to their ongoing effort to attract visitors. Loop Head will be the subject of a photo shoot and short video and the local committee will receive €5,000 for business development support initiatives as well as a certificate of achievement from Fáilte Ireland. In addition, the EU will provide international promotion of Loop Head and e-marketing opportunities as well as participation in an EU network of European Destinations of Excellence which will also raise the profile of the destination.
A national awards ceremony will be held by Fáilte Ireland in June where Loop Head will be formally presented with their award.
