Fáilte Ireland’s Mayo tourism symposium gathers in Ballina

Fáilte Ireland’s Mayo Tourism Symposium gathered at the Great National Hotel Ballina brought together over 100 tourism businesses from across the county this week. 

The gathering showcased the strength of collaboration between accommodation providers, visitor experiences, and local stakeholders, all working to shape a more connected and competitive Mayo for the 2026 season. 

Attendees heard updates on major projects including the Keel Visitor Management and Placemaking plan for Achill Island, the Wild Mayo Destination and Experience Development Plan, progress on Inland Mayo and Clew Bay DEDPs, and the Céide Coastal Path project in North Mayo.

It featured a keynote address by international travel expert Doug Lansky, insights from Mayo County Council on its upcoming tourism strategy, and guidance from Bord Iascaigh Mhara, LEADER, and South West Mayo Development Company on funding supports. An expert panel discussion with local leaders from hospitality, heritage, and aviation explored opportunities and challenges for the 2025 season, reinforcing the shared vision of making Mayo a destination where visitors stay longer, spend more, and experience the best of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Pictured above: Luke Murray (Moderator, Fáilte Ireland), Donal Healy (Ireland West Airport, Knock), Frances Toner (National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park) and Raymond Horkan (Great National Hotel Ballina), as more than 110 tourism businesses attended Fáilte Ireland’s Mayo Tourism Symposium and networking event at the Great National Hotel Ballina this week. The event brought together accommodation providers and visitor experiences to foster collaboration and create more connected offerings that will attract visitors, encourage longer stays and increase spend in the county for the 2026 season. Pic: Michael McLaughlin

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