MINISTER of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD, has launched a new 52-page booklet, which encourages visitors to Ireland to explore West Limerick.
The publication, which was created by West Limerick Tourism with the support of West Limerick Resources, has been produced to encourage visitors to the area to step out and explore one of Ireland’s best kept secrets.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Ring commented, “I am delighted to be here to launch the new Explore West Limerick visitor guide. These guides provide a great offering for tourists looking to explore the different elements of our towns and cities.”
“Bringing all the elements of the local tourist offering together is key to attracting more visitors to the less well known attractions, and ensuring that they stay a little longer and experience more of our well known culture and heritage,” he added.
The guide, which is available in hard-copy and on-line, features a wide range of things to do, including a number of little known gems such as Saturday night ballroom dancing at Knockaderry Community Centre and a Spiritual Garden of Remembrance created around a seven-circuit labyrinth hidden away behind St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Askeaton. It also tells the story of the region’s rich history, spectacular scenery, great outdoors, glorious gardens, food and culture and highlights the towns and villages of Abbeyfeale, Adare, Askeaton, Foynes, Glin, Newcastle West and Rathkeale.
West Limerick Tourism chairperson Elaine Davidson said that the production of the visitor guide is the single most important thing the group has worked on this year.
“West Limerick attracts upwards of 250,000 visitors a year and, to date, there has been little information available for those who would like to explore beyond Adare,” she said.
“The visitor guide is part of our strategy to raise the profile of the region and show people that a wonderful welcome awaits. We know that we have a world-class tourism product that offers something for everyone, no matter what their interests are,” Ms Davidson enthused.
The Explore West Limerick guide is available to download at www.visitwestlimerick.com.
