Tourism Ireland arranges sustainable travel tour for US operators
Six American tour operators specializing in sustainable travel toured Ireland to evaluate green tourism products for the 2027 booking cycle, Irish Hotel News reported. The delegation visited sites across the country from Wednesday, October 7, 2026, participating in an itinerary arranged by Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, and Tourism NI.
The visiting group inspected properties and experiences designed to minimize environmental impact while maintaining high-value visitor appeal. Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America, said seeing the offerings firsthand helps secure future bookings. Seeing is believing and our aim is that when they return home, they will be even more enthusiastic about the destination, helping to secure a greater share of their business for Ireland in 2027 and beyond,
Metcalfe stated.
Republic of Ireland Itinerary and Site Inspections
The group’s Republic route included stops at Kylemore Abbey, The Shed Distillery, and Ahascragh Distillery. Participants also took part in a Killary Fjord Boat Tour, an oyster farm tour with DK Connemara Oysters, and a walking tour with Hidden Howth Experiences.
Property inspections focused on accommodations demonstrating distinct sustainability commitments. Hotels reviewed by the delegation in the Republic included Castle Leslie Estate in County Monaghan, Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens, Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway, The Grace, The Galmont Hotel & Spa, and the Iveagh Garden Hotel.
Northern Ireland Engagements
In Northern Ireland, the delegates boarded an Island Discovery cruise on Lough Erne and toured the Boatyard Distillery, Glenshane Country Farm, and Seamus Heaney HomePlace. The itinerary also featured a tasting session with NearyNógs Stoneground Chocolate.
Northern Ireland accommodation site inspections covered Lough Erne Resort, Belmore Court & Motel, Finn Lough, and Killeavy Castle Estate. Industry partners and members of the Irish Hotels Federation can submit updates to hotelnews@ihf.ie.