Limerick community joins forces with geopark to 'reimagine' rural tourism growth

COMMUNITIES from both sides of the border have come together in a “first-of-its-kind” initiative with the intention of reimagining how rural tourism can grow regeneratively, inclusively, and from the ground up. 

Led by Ballyhoura Development CLG and Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, Fermanagh, and funded by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, the project “places local people at the heart of tourism development”. 

“It builds on the established regeneration efforts already underway in the Cuilcagh Lakelands, extending their reach through shared learning and collaboration with Ballyhoura communities,” a spokesperson for Ballyhoura said.

Over the course of two immersive learning journeys, one in Ballyhoura and one in the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark region, more than 30 tourism providers and community enterprises “came together to engage, learn, exchange ideas, and build connections through site visits, facilitated discussions, and networking opportunities”. 

Participants explored ways to collaborate, innovate, and “shape a shared vision” for rural tourism that delivers long-term benefits for locals and visitors.

Reflecting on the learning journey to Cuilcagh, Margaret O’Sullivan of Deebert House, Kilmallock, said:“What struck me most on the learning journey to Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark was how much has already been achieved through regeneration. You could see the results of long-term commitment, strong partnerships, restored heritage, and a real pride of place.”

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Amanda Slattery of Ballyhoura Development CLG added: “The learning journeys have exceeded our expectations, not just in terms of shared insights, but in the meaningful connections made between our two communities. This shared sense of purpose is the foundation for lasting collaboration and will continue to shape how we grow rural tourism in ways that are inclusive, regenerative, and community-led.”

A key output of the initiative was the development of a Community-Led Regenerative Tourism Destination Model (CDM), described by a spokesperson as “a practical framework encompassing six pillars that reflect a bottom-up approach to tourism development and management”. 

“The model is shaped by the lived experiences of the communities of Ballyhoura Country and the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark,” the statement continued. 

“It provides a flexible structure that demonstrates how communities can take ownership to foster regenerative tourism, delivering long-term social, cultural, and economic benefits for all.

“This initiative not only forged stronger links between two vibrant rural regions, it laid the groundwork for a regenerative, community-led approach to rural tourism that can inform future policy and investment. 

“With communities leading the way and regeneration as the goal, this cross-border partnership sets a new standard for how rural tourism can deliver real, lasting benefits for people, for place, and for future generations.”