News
Ballyfinnane cycle is gearing up to return
By Michelle Crean
The wheels are in motion for the return of the ‘Tour de Ballyfinnane’ Cycle with proceeds going to local education.
After an absence of two years, Ballyfinnane National School are delighted to see cyclists gearing up for the April 2 date with funds raised for the facilities and activities for the children attending the school including reading books, computing and science equipment, sports coaching, music coaches, special needs resources.
This is the seventh year of the cycle which is organised by the parents of the children at the two-teacher, co-educational, rural Catholic school, with the support of the school board, the local community and local businesses.
Built in 1965, it is situated in Kiltallagh Parish, between Farranfore and Castlemaine.
This year’s cycle was launched by Brendan Griffin local TD at Divanes Volkwagen Showroom Castleisland, Anne Marie Crean explained.
"We are delighted to have this long established local business as our host sponsor," she said.
"We want to take this opportunity to thank the community, local businesses and not least the cyclists who take part in the event. We do all we can to ensure the event is enjoyable and run to a high standard, this year will be no different and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Ballyfinnane."
There are two routes on offer; 70k and 45k both commencing from Ballyfinnane Community Hall at 10am. Refreshments will be provided along the route and again at the finish with the now infamous complimentary BBQ and entertainment at The Shanty Bar, Ballyfinnane.
Route 1 is 70km and €25. It takes you west to Castlemaine, Inch, Annascaul, Gleann na nGealt, Camp, Tonevane, Caherleaheen, Farmer’s Bridge and over the final climb of the day at Garraun on the return to Ballyfinnane.
Route 2 is 45km and €20. It goes east to Currans, Castleisland, Ballymac, Tralee and back to Ballyfinnane via the Killarney Road and Gortatlea.
Participants can pre-register or find out more on www.tdb.ie or on the day from 8am. Also see Facebook: 'Ballyfinnane Cycle' for updates.
News
Strong connections made at tourism tradeshow
Many significant business deals were signed at this year’s Meitheal – Ireland’s largest and most important trade event for the tourism industry. Held in the INEC, 450 Irish businesses pitched to over 230 international […]
Many significant business deals were signed at this year’s Meitheal – Ireland’s largest and most important trade event for the tourism industry.
Held in the INEC, 450 Irish businesses pitched to over 230 international buyers from 17 countries at Fáilte Ireland’s flagship trade event.
Running since 1975, Meitheal is organised in partnership with Tourism Ireland to provide Irish tourism businesses with the opportunity to sell directly to top international buyers and tour operators.
The best of what is on offer across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Ireland’s Ancient East, the Wild Atlantic Way and Dublin, were showcased with the aim of being scheduled on the itineraries of the global tour operators.
Key themes and trends emerging this year are sustainable travel options, immersive outdoor experiences and festivals.
Speaking about the importance of developing a future pipeline of tourism business, Paul Kelly, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, said that “creating a strong pipeline of future business is key for the recovery of tourism”.
“Seeing the demand for the Irish tourism product with international buyers at Meitheal is fantastic. Each international buyer represents tens of thousands of possible visitors to Ireland, and their business will be hugely important for tourism and hospitality businesses, communities, and destination Ireland as we continue to work towards recovery,” he said.
News
Outdoor dining area officially opens in town
A new outdoor dining space at Kenmare Place was officially opened today (Wednesday). The project, which was supported with €605,000 in funding from Fáilte Ireland under the Local Authority Weatherproofing and […]
A new outdoor dining space at Kenmare Place was officially opened today (Wednesday).
The project, which was supported with €605,000 in funding from Fáilte Ireland under the Local Authority Weatherproofing and Outdoor Dining Infrastructure Scheme, provides an attractive outdoor dining option for locals and visitors to Killarney.
“This is a really wonderful addition to Killarney’s tourism infrastructure and will prove a great asset throughout the year and particularly during the forthcoming tourist season,” said Cllr Kelleher, Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal District, who did the honours.
“One of the effects of the recent pandemic was the need to utilise and maximise outdoor dining options and this infrastructure shows what can be achieved in an imaginative way. It will greatly enhance Killarney’s reputation as a destination for top quality tourism experiences.”
The project has been operational since last October but the official opening was timed to coincide with the Meitheal 2023 tourism industry showcase that was organised by Fáilte Ireland at the INEC this week.
“It is fantastic to see Killarney’s outdoor dining infrastructure being so well received by trade and visitors alike,” Miriam Kennedy, Head of Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland, said.
Councillors in the Killarney Municipal District approved planning permission for the infrastructure which was completed by Daniel Canty Construction.
Strong connections made at tourism tradeshow
Many significant business deals were signed at this year’s Meitheal – Ireland’s largest and most important trade event for the tourism industry. Held...
Outdoor dining area officially opens in town
A new outdoor dining space at Kenmare Place was officially opened today (Wednesday). The project, which was supported with €605,000 in...
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