## Spanish Travel Experts Discover the Enchanting Allure of Northern Ireland, Boosting Irish Tourism
In a bid to showcase Northern Ireland’s exceptional tourism offerings to a key European market, a group of 11 prominent travel representatives from Spain’s leading tour operator, Special Tours, recently embarked on a captivating journey through the Emerald Isle’s northern region. This visit, hosted by Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland, aimed to inspire these influential travel professionals, who specialize in crafting cultural travel experiences for their discerning clientele, to include Northern Ireland in their future travel itineraries. Their participation is crucial in promoting Irish tourism in Spain, bringing a substantial number of Spanish visitors to the island each year.
This exploratory trip came at a pivotal time, as tour operators are now focusing on curating exciting and unique destinations for their 2025 and beyond travel programs. The delegation’s itinerary was meticulously designed to highlight the best of Northern Ireland’s diverse attractions, showcasing its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture.
Their journey began with a captivating exploration of iconic sites like Killeavy Castle Estate, a breathtaking testament to Northern Ireland’s architectural heritage. They delved into the history of the region at Titanic Belfast, the world-renowned museum commemorating the iconic ship, and Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison steeped in historical intrigue. A visit to McConnell’s Distillery, a testament to Northern Ireland’s renowned whiskey-making tradition, provided an opportunity to savor the local flavors.
The itinerary also included a captivating experience with the Belfast Traditional Music Trail, allowing the group to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Northern Ireland’s musical heritage. They embarked on a scenic drive along the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, a breathtaking stretch of coastline dotted with captivating landmarks. Stops at Glenarm Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, and Mussenden Temple offered glimpses of the region’s dramatic natural beauty.
In Castlerock, the group engaged in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop at The Chocolate Manor, indulging in a sweet and interactive experience. Their journey then took them to Derry-Londonderry, a city steeped in history and culture. They explored the Peacemakers Museum, a testament to the city’s tumultuous past, and the Walled City Brewery, savoring the flavors of local craft brewing.
The itinerary also featured visits to Glenshane Country Farm, a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage, and Montalto Estate, a picturesque estate showcasing the beauty of Northern Ireland’s countryside. A stop at Killowen Distillery provided an opportunity to sample the region’s renowned whiskey.
Susan Bolger, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Spain, expressed her enthusiasm about the visit, stating: “Tourism Ireland is delighted to welcome these influential travel professionals from Special Tours to Northern Ireland, to discover some of our excellent visitor attractions and experiences. It’s a great opportunity to familiarize them with the destination for consideration in their client itineraries for 2025 and beyond.”
This visit marks a significant step in promoting Northern Ireland as a must-visit destination for Spanish travelers. By showcasing the region’s diverse offerings, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland hope to inspire these travel professionals to incorporate Northern Ireland into their clients’ travel plans, further boosting tourism to the region.
