Allen launches ecotourism network

THE Burren this week became Ireland’s newest ecotourism destination. Ireland’s most famous chef and slow-food and ecotourism advocate, Darina Allen officially launched the Burren Ecotourism Network in Gregan’s Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan recently.
Over the last few years, an eclectic group of 18 dedicated tourism businesses have been going through a rigorous training and assessment programme to be certified as one of only two ecotourism destinations in Ireland.
Their vision is that establishing ecotourism in the Burren will ensure the sustainable development of its communities, environment and heritage.
The network is offering visitors opportunities to engage with the protected landscape of the Burren in a manner that is sustainable both in terms of the environment as well as the community.
Accommodation, food, farming, outdoor activities, culture and heritage are all part of the network, which has woven together all the elements that make the area attractive to visitors looking for authentic tourism experiences.
Each business offers a unique ecotourism experience, one such example being an afternoon tea and farm walk.
“For Father Ted and Mrs Doyle fans, a visit to Father Ted’s parochial house for afternoon tea is a must. Enjoy a fine selection of organic home produce and wide selection of teas by appointment only.
“The lady of the house is Cheryl and her husband, Pat McCormack, is a storyteller and rural philosopher of renown. There are 26 experiences in all on offer and each can be tailored to suit the individual or group,” explained a spokesperson for the network.
All the businesses in the network have achieved independent accreditation, demonstrated ecotourism best practice, provide one-voice representation on issues impacting the Burren, have shown they can inspire, lead and motivate conservation activism, support training and provide mentoring for other enterprises working towards accreditation and will increase numbers of responsible tourists coming to the area.
At the launch, organisers highlighted the huge level of support given to them over the last few years from Clare County Council, Clare Local Development Company, Shannon Development and Fáilte Ireland.
For more information on the tourism experiences on offer, see www.burrenecotourism.com.