In a major boost for regional tourism, Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark has just been granted UNESCO Global Geopark status. This is a prized international brand for an area of stunning beauty and rich heritage that has good potential to create new jobs and income. The decision, made at a meeting in Chile in early September, will be ratified at the UNESCO executive board meeting in Paris in spring 2026.

This recognition marks a global acknowledgement of the area’s exceptional geological, natural and cultural heritage, commited communities, and its focus on sustainable development. Importantly, the status adds no further planning regulations to those already in place.

Currently, there are 229 UNESCO Global Geoparks worldwide, with many in Europe. Four on the is-land of Ireland are the Burren and Cliffs of Moher (County Clare), Cuilcagh Lakelands (Ferman-agh/Cavan), Copper Coast (Waterford), and Mourne Gullion Strangford (Down/Armagh). The status brings membership of the Global Geoparks Network to 50 countries.

A UNESCO Global Geopark uses its geological heritage, in connection with all other aspects of its nat-ural and cultural heritage, to promote and develop its communities sustainably in a bottom-up way. They attract visitors to explore and experience the physical, cultural and other features of the area. Geoparks also provide ideal learning environments for schools and education institutes.

As a UNESCO Global Geopark, Joyce Country and Western Lakes can now attract greater numbers of visitors seeking authentic experiences and learning, rooted in both natural beauty and local culture. Sustainable tourism initiatives will generate economic benefits for local communities, encouraging the growth of small businesses, such as accommodation and local activities, and the preservation of traditional skills and crafts. Overall it boosts what there is to see and do in the whole of Connacht.

The Geopark is a connector for three Fáilte Ireland supported development plans (DEDPs) – Clew Bay, Connemara and the Islands, and the emerging Inland Mayo. The 20 communities in the Geopark include 12 in County Mayo and eight in County Galway, with 60 percent of the 1560 km2 Geopark in Galway and 40 percent in Mayo.

Equally significant is the pride and sense of ownership this accolade instils in the local population. The UNESCO Geopark status is a recognition of generations of stewardship, resilience, community spirit and voluntary effort.

A wealth of information about what to explore and experience is available on the Geopark website and through social media (links below).

 www.joycecountrygeoparkproject.ie and on Facebook and Instagram @JCWLGeopark