Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark Sustainable Tourism Network Visits the Burren Geopark to Explore Sustainable Destination Models

Members of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark Sustainable Tourism Network travelled to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark on 2–3 March 2026 as part of a learning journey focused on sustainable tourism development.

The visit, supported by the Newry, Mourne and Down Local Economic Partnership (LEP), and the Shared Island Fund brought together businesses and organisations from across the Geopark who are working collectively to strengthen sustainable tourism within the region. The Network includes representatives from the food and drink sector, outdoor activity providers, accommodation providers, cultural and heritage organisations, and tour guides.

The purpose of the study visit was to explore how the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark has developed a successful sustainable destination model and to assess what lessons could be applied within Mourne Gullion Strangford.

Learning from an International Example

Over two days, participants engaged with a range of businesses, tourism leaders, and sustainability practitioners who are part of the Burren’s internationally recognised approach to responsible tourism.

The programme examined several key initiatives including the EarthCheck sustainable destination certification used by Clare County Council, the Code of Practice developed by the Burren Ecotourism Network, and the role of the GEOfood programme in strengthening links between local food producers, businesses, and the Geopark identity.

Participants also met with members of the Burren Ecotourism Network and local businesses who have embedded sustainability into their operations, including accommodation providers, outdoor education centres, food producers, and community initiatives. These discussions provided practical insights into how collaboration between businesses, local authorities, and communities can support sustainable tourism and strengthen local economies. Burren Geopark Itineray (004)

Facilitators Julie O’Brien and Terri Cullinane from Runda Hospitality & Tourism Solutions accompanied the group to document key learnings, gather feedback, and support the development of recommendations for the future direction of the Sustainable Tourism Network. Burren Learning Journey – Susta…

Exploring Sustainable Tourism in Practice

During the visit, the group experienced several examples of sustainable tourism in action, including locally sourced food initiatives, responsible outdoor recreation, and businesses committed to environmental and community values.

Highlights included meetings with the Burren Ecotourism Network leadership, discussions on sustainable tourism codes of practice, and conversations with businesses involved in initiatives such as the Burren Food Trail and GEOfood programme.

These experiences provided valuable insight into how sustainable tourism principles can be embedded across a destination, helping protect landscapes and heritage while creating meaningful visitor experiences and supporting local businesses.

Next Steps for the Geopark Network

The learning journey represents an important step in the development of a sustainable tourism approach for Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark.

The facilitators will now prepare a report capturing the key insights from the visit and outlining potential recommendations for the Network. This will help inform discussions on whether a formal sustainable destination model, accreditation pathway, or code of practice should be developed for the Geopark.

Members of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark Sustainable Tourism Network will meet in the coming months to review the findings and consider the next steps for strengthening sustainable tourism across the region.

Through collaboration, shared learning, and engagement with best practice from other UNESCO Global Geoparks, the Network aims to support a tourism model that protects the Geopark’s unique landscapes and heritage while delivering lasting benefits for local communities and businesses.