After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, senior representatives of Ireland’s tourism sector came together to celebrate the diversity and richness of experiences offered by Irish tourism at the CIE Tours annual Awards of Excellence.
Launched in 1990, the awards recognize Ireland’s hospitality ambassadors – the people and businesses throughout the country who put Irish tourism on the global stage through the warmth of welcome and quality of service provided to international visitors.
CIE Tours, which celebrates 91 years in business, is the largest operator of guided tours to Ireland in the North American market, bringing over 25,000 visitors last year.
Westport Walking Tours Gold Award Recognition
Westport Walking Tours was awarded a prestigious Gold Award for the Best Walking Tour in Ireland. This recognition highlights their exceptional service, engaging storytelling, and dedication to providing a memorable experience for visitors exploring the rich history and beauty of Westport.
The Gold Award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the Westport Walking Tours team. Their guided tours showcase the town’s fascinating past, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, making them a favorite choice for both local and international tourists.
Other Recognized Attractions
Ballintubber Abbey and Killary Harbour Cruise also received merit awards in the Visitor Attraction category, further emphasizing the exceptional experiences available in the region. These awards celebrate the quality and uniqueness of Ireland’s diverse tourism offerings.
CIE Tours’ Commitment to Irish Tourism
Speaking at the presentation of CIE Tours’ annual Awards of Excellence, Elizabeth Crabill, CEO of CIE Tours, highlighted the significance of these awards and the resilience of Ireland’s tourism sector.
“The Irish holiday experience is unique, and its popularity is very evident in the strong rebound we witnessed once international travel re-opened following the pandemic,” Crabill said.
She acknowledged the dedication of tourism partners like Westport Walking Tours who enthusiastically welcomed back visitors after the challenges of recent years. The continued success of these tours contributes to local employment and supports the growth of rural tourism in Ireland.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Irish Tourism
Crabill expressed optimism about the future of Irish tourism, noting that the pipeline of bookings for the coming year is ahead of expectations. She emphasized that CIE Tours remains committed to supporting local tourism operators and fostering sustainable tourism practices.
“Our itineraries visit many rural areas of Ireland, and over many years, we have helped local tourism operators to survive and thrive, creating valuable local employment,” Crabill added.
With their extensive experience, CIE Tours continues to be a strong partner in achieving Fáilte Ireland’s goal of positioning Ireland as a high-quality tourism destination that positively impacts host communities while preserving and enhancing the environment.
Westport Walking Tours: An Unforgettable Experience
Winning the Gold Award for the Best Walking Tour in Ireland further solidifies Westport Walking Tours’ reputation for excellence. Their engaging guides, attention to detail, and commitment to providing an authentic Irish experience make them a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Westport.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking to experience the charm of Westport, these award-winning walking tours offer an insightful and enjoyable journey through one of Ireland’s most picturesque towns.
