New “Sligo’s Hidden Gems” brochure for 2019 tourist season

Three in a row success for the South & West Sligo Tourism network. This is the third instalment of the successful “Sligo Hidden Gems” booklet. The attractive A5 publication is part of an ongoing programme promoting the rural areas of Sligo. This year, the booklet focuses on user generated content. It contains photographs taken by visitors and locals as well as professional photographer. This gives a unique insight into the visitor’s experience. The cover image of the Caves of Keash was provided by makeup artist Marcella McGovern, an avid hill walker and explorer and this photograph was taken on her phone.  

“Sligo’s Hidden Gems” is a fabulous tool for any visitor planning their stay in the region. It includes details of tourist businesses in the area – everything from surfing, seaweed baths, horse riding, golfing and a spa to attractions, walking trails and festivals. It also includes a comprehensive calendar of events and a very useful map of the area with details of heritage and historic sites. It is ideal for visitors and for people living in Sligo who are planning a day out. It is supported by a social media and PR campaigns. The booklet accompanies our heritage and historical trails brochure.

2019 has already being a busy year for the network. With the community tourism network winning Best Tourism Initiative sponsored by Fáilte Ireland at a gala event in Croke Park at the National Community and Council Awards 2019 in February. Followed closely by a commendation at the RDS Spring Awards in April.  

Over 40 businesses are part of the network, including signature festivals, adventure and activity providers as well as essentials such as accommodation and eateries. “Sligo’s Hidden Gems” will be distributed through members, tourist offices and tourism related festivals and events.

Speaking at the launch, which took place in the Fox’s Den pub in Keash, Chair Paul Taylor said, “We are proud to present this comprehensive new tourism guide. Tourists can easily find out about all the hidden gems of our county. This year, we were delighted to collaborate with Sligo Walks and include them in our booklet”. He went on to compliment the members on their energy and determination saying, “I’m delighted to be part of a vibrant organisation, full of committed and enthusiastic people. Seeing new ventures like the replicate Irish Cottage from early 20th century at the Caves of Keash Visitor Point.  We were delighted to see all our hard work over the past number of years recognised with our LAMA Best Tourism initiative award. This is a wonderful endorsement of the networks vision, which has now become a reality.”

Through the network, businesses have come together, building a stronger tourism product through collaboration, which will benefit the entire region. The last three years has seen the network grow in strength each year.

Contact info:@southandwestsligo.ie for further information or visit the website www.southandwestsligo.ie