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“You want your story to be the first story every visitor tells when they get home, or even better the story they share on social media.”
- Chris McCarthy, Co-chair of the Clew Bay Tourism Network

Clew Bay Tourism Network - February Meeting Highlights

March 2nd, 2026

Members of the Clew Bay Tourism Network met on February 26th at Knockranny Park Hotel to review progress across the Clew Bay Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) and discuss priorities for the year ahead. Encouragingly, over 60% of DEDP actions are now either complete or underway, with updates provided on eight key catalyst projects.

Significant progress is being made on major initiatives including beach facilities at Keel and Carrowmore, trail and bothy development in Wild Nephin National Park, and preparations for the reopening of the Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre in May. The Clew Bay Bike Trail enters its fifth year in 2026, with further Greenway extensions progressing. Other highlights include the completion of the Slievemore Heritage Trail and the Croagh Patrick Sustainable Access and Habitat Restoration Programme as well as ongoing visitor management planning for Keem Bay. An up-date was also provided on the Grace O’Malley Trail which, it was proposed, may pivot to a digital led trail representing a move away from traditional physical interpretation at sensitive sites.

The meeting also heard updates on the CARE programme, supporting climate action and biodiversity in Mayo’s Decarbonising Zone, and agreement to establish a project group to develop a Clew Bay Communications Strategy.

A season outlook report noted strong optimism among Westport hotels, particularly in the US market, with shoulder-season events playing a vital role. Members also discussed challenges including short-term letting legislation, transport capacity, and project financing. The next CBTN meeting will take place on Achill Island in May.