Mourne Gullion Strangford Hosts Tourism providers from Neighbouring aspiring Geopark

In a recent exchange trip funded by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, tourism providers from the Joyce Country and Western Lakes aspiring Geopark, on the west coast of Ireland, travelled to meet their counterparts in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. 

Internationally, UNESCO Global Geoparks promote the economic development of Geoparks through sustainable tourism. UNESCO also encourages networking between geoparks to improve collaboration, particularly across borders where it can help peace-building processes.

An important opportunity for knowledge sharing and learning, this partnership between the two Geoparks aimed to create stronger and sustainable cross-border civic relationships, opening opportunities for collaboration and partnership working.

During their visit, the representatives from the Joyce Country and Western Lakes aspiring Geopark, visited tourism operators, businesses and locations across Mourne Gullion Strangford discussing the challenges of sustainable tourism, learning about tourism experiences that are currently being successfully delivered and the difficulties that they have overcome during the process. 

After meeting with the tourism representatives of both Geoparks, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Gareth Sharvin, said, "The tourism businesses who operate within our Geopark are vitally important to us. Mourne Gullion Strangford has internationally significant geology but one of the things that makes it so special is that we have such a vast array of tourism providers delivering authentic experiences.  They act as ambassadors for the Geopark, promoting an appreciation for our natural, built, and cultural heritage while supporting the sustainable economic development of the area. It is the passion, commitment and drive of our local tourism ambassadors which is so special to the visitor experience in Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.

He continued, “I was delighted to meet the group from the Joyce Country and Western Lakes aspiring Geopark, this exchange is a wonderful way for the two to share the successes and learn with and from each other, enhancing both our tourism offerings.”