TOURISM businesses from across West Cork and Kenmare gathered at a Fáilte Ireland networking event at the Celtic Ross Hotel, Rosscarbery, focused on strengthening collaboration and supporting 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 brought together more than 50 tourism businesses.

Over 300 meetings took place, enabling accommodation providers, visitor attractions and activity operators to build connections and work collectively to enhance the visitor experience across the region.

The event supports the ongoing delivery of the West Cork Destination Experience Development Plan, which provides 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, highlighting West Cork’s food, adventure and coastal offer, alongside a keynote address from travel writer and broadcaster Eoghan Corry on trends 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, added: ‘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.’