Wild Mayo Tourism Plan Launched – A Game Changer for North Mayo
A major new chapter for tourism in the region has begun with the official launch of the Wild Mayo Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP). This is a bold five-year roadmap set to shape the future of North Mayo as a leading sustainable tourism destination.
Launched over Mayo Day at the Ballinglen Museum of Art, the plan was unveiled by Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Alan Dillon TD, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.
A Clear Vision for Sustainable Growth
The Wild Mayo DEDP sets out a clear and ambitious framework to support sustainable tourism growth across North Mayo over the next five years. There is a strong focus on enhancing the visitor experience, extending the tourism season as well as delivering meaningful economic benefits for local communities.
Developed in consultation with key stakeholders and industry partners, including Mayo County Council, the plan reflects a shared vision to strengthen North Mayo’s position along the Wild Atlantic Way while protecting the character, culture and identity that make the region unique.
Transformational Projects to Lead the Way
At the heart of the plan are a number of high-impact catalyst projects designed to unlock the full tourism potential of North Mayo and create compelling, year-round visitor experiences.
These include:
- The development of the Céide Coastal Path, a proposed 15km coastal trail linking the iconic Céide Fields with the dramatic Downpatrick Head, creating a signature experience rooted in heritage, landscape and storytelling.
- Continued progress on the Western Way and the development of a connected North Mayo trails network to support walking, cycling and outdoor activity.
- Strengthening Ballina and Killala as vibrant visitor hubs, supporting local services and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
- Celebrating the unique language, culture and living heritage of the Erris Gaeltacht through authentic, place-based tourism experiences.
Strong Voices Supporting the Plan
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State Alan Dillon emphasised the importance of delivery and community engagement: “This is not a plan for the shelf, it is a delivery-focused roadmap for North Mayo, built around clear priority projects that people will see, use and experience on the ground.”
He also highlighted the transformative potential of the Céide Coastal Path, noting its ability to connect world-class sites while encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore more deeply.
Miriam Kennedy of Fáilte Ireland added: “North Mayo’s dramatic coastlines, wild landscapes and living culture are at the heart of this plan, which will support sustainable growth while strengthening towns, communities and visitor experiences.”
Community at the Core
A defining strength of the Wild Mayo DEDP is its foundation in collaboration. The plan has been shaped by the input, insight and commitment of local communities, tourism businesses and stakeholders across the region.
Mayo North Tourism warmly congratulates all involved in bringing this plan to fruition. In particular, recognition is due to the Céide Coast community, whose dedication and tireless work over many years has helped shape the vision for this area and laid the groundwork for transformative projects such as the Céide Coastal Path.
Mayo North Tourism Welcomes the Plan
Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, has welcomed the launch and confirmed her involvement in the next phase of delivery:
“This is a hugely exciting and positive moment for North Mayo. The Wild Mayo Destination and Experience Development Plan is a real game changer for the region. It provides a clear and ambitious roadmap for sustainable tourism development that is rooted in our communities, our landscape and our unique identity.
I am delighted to join others on the implementation committee for this plan and to work collaboratively with Fáilte Ireland, Mayo County Council, local businesses and community groups to help bring these projects to life. The opportunity now is to turn this vision into real and lasting impact on the ground.”
Looking Ahead
With implementation now underway, the focus turns firmly to delivery. Over the next five years, the success of the Wild Mayo DEDP will be driven by continued collaboration between local stakeholders and national agencies.
This plan represents a significant opportunity not only to grow tourism, but to do so in a way that strengthens communities, celebrates heritage and ensures North Mayo continues to thrive as a place to live, work and visit.