Donegal’s tourism sector took centre stage in Dublin last week with an exclusive industry showcase, ‘Reveal Donegal’s True Potential’, hosted by the Donegal Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF).
Held in association with Fáilte Ireland and Donegal County Council at the Iveagh Garden Hotel, the networking event gathered over 60 industry leaders including Donegal hoteliers and national tour group operators specialising in leisure and golf travel. Presided over by Master of Ceremonies Noel Cunningham, the evening served as a powerful platform for local businesses to promote the county’s exceptional hospitality and world-class visitor experiences to key national decision-makers.
Donegal is a cornerstone of the Wild Atlantic Way, with the local tourism industry supporting over 8,000 livelihoods. A key priority for industry leaders, including the IHF Donegal Branch, is to drive sustainable, year-round growth by highlighting premium tourism assets such as Donegal’s top-tier leisure, golf and business tourism infrastructure.
Aisling Arnold, Chair of the IHF Donegal Branch, emphasised the county’s growing reputation as a primary Irish destination: “We are delighted with strong interest shown by tour operators in what Donegal has to offer as a destination for both national and international visitors. We offer a truly authentic visitor experience rooted in breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned hospitality. Collaboration with our industry partners is key to our success as a major driver of local employment and prosperity, and this is what events such as our tourism showcase are all about: ensuring Donegal remains a must-visit destination that delivers significant economic benefits to the entire North West region.”
Lynn Mc Cool, General Manager at Donegal Golf Club showcased Donegal’s renowned links golf offering including a video message from legendary golfer Paul McGinley, while Emer Sweeney of the Gallen Hotel Group highlighted the county’s growing conferencing and business events sector. Guests also enjoyed Donegal cultural performances from the Donegal Dancers and Líofa during the evening.
Joan Crawford, Wild Atlantic Way Manager, Fáilte Ireland added: “Fáilte Ireland is proud to support this important Donegal showcase, which highlights the county’s outstanding tourism experiences and reinforces its position as a must‑visit destination along the Wild Atlantic Way. Strengthening connections between local businesses and national tour operators is essential to increasing visitor numbers, supporting jobs and driving long‑term economic benefit for the region. Working closely with the Irish Hotels Federation, Donegal Tourism and our industry partners ensures we can continue to build sustainable, year‑round growth that delivers real impact for communities across Donegal.”
Joy Browne, Tourism Manager with Donegal County Council, said: “Donegal’s story is one of welcome, resilience and a landscape that stays with you long after you leave. Donegal Tourism and Donegal County Council Tourism Unit are proud to work alongside Fáilte Ireland and the Donegal Branch of the Irish Hotel Federation, whose commitment to excellence strengthens our county’s reputation at home and abroad. The Donegal showcase that took place in Dublin on 26th February was a celebration of that partnership and an invitation to experience the very best of Donegal.”
