Tipperary tourism business representatives enjoy grand tour of Carrick-on-Suir

Almost 30 representatives from tourism businesses across county Tipperary gathered in Carrick-on-Suir recently for a novel, engaging and active networking occasion.

The event combined historical exploration, refreshments, lively discussions and getting active outdoors.

It was designed to foster collaboration and strengthen local tourism business connections.

Those attending included start-up tourism entrepreneurs, established activity providers, accommodation providers ranging from a 5-star hotel to small B&B owners, caravan and camping park businesses, self-catering operators, horse-racing, historical societies, community café operators, a golf club, destination management and marketing companies and a local development company.

The event was organised and hosted by Tipperary Tourism and began with a guided tour of Ormond Castle renowned as the best-preserved Elizabethan manor house in Ireland.

Attendees explored the castle’s stunning architecture and learned about its fascinating history,

The tourism businesses were particularly inspired by the potential of the castle as a focal point for attracting visitors and enhancing the town’s appeal as a tourist destination, along with other exciting developments taking place across Carrick-on-Suir.

Following the castle tour, participants convened at the Carraig Hotel for a lavish spread of refreshments.

This setting provided the perfect backdrop for information sharing, exchanging ideas and discussing opportunities for collaboration.

Tipperary Tourism Chairman John G O’Dwyer addressed the group and encouraged the tourism business representatives in attendance to get to know each other.

The networking continued with a leisurely hour-long cycle, including a few electric bikes, along the River Suir Blueway, facilitated by Tom Treacy’s Blueway Bike Hire.

This showcased the Blueway as a valuable local asset for promoting wellness and tourism.

Cycling along the tranquil river path allowed attendees to continue networking in a relaxed, outdoor environment.

Caroline Rice, Tourism Officer for Tipperary County Council, said feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive.

“All tourism businesses attending valued the opportunity to meet in an enjoyable setting, forging valuable relationships within the Tipperary tourism industry.

“It was uplifting to see the positive energy during the entire evening.”

Plans are already underway for the next Tipperary Tourism networking event, planned to take place in Cloughjordan in September, with the aim of continuing to build strong connections and collaborative opportunities across all of county Tipperary.

Tipperary Tourism membership is available to approved tourism operators in the county, and is open year round, with new members welcome at any time: email [email protected] for details.