Mayo and ashford castle on tourists top 10 lists

Ireland, and Mayo’s, attractiveness as a tourist destination has been further acknowledged this week by globally renowned travel publications.

Earlier in the week Lonely Planet rated Ireland as one of the top 10 countries in the world to visit in 2015. Today, Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice awards included Ashford Castle among four Irish hotels listed in the Top Ten Resorts in Europe.

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring expressed delight that Ireland has been recognised by these world-renowned publications.

He stated: “I know we have a great tourist product here in Ireland, and that Mayo has something special to offer. I want to congratulate Ashford Castle on being chosen as one of the top resorts in Europe by such a renowned travel guide. Everyone in Mayo knows what a spectacular place Ashford is. The stunning castle is a five-star luxury resort and I am thrilled it has received such recognition on the world stage.”

Overseas tourist numbers for the first half eight months of the year have shown +9.4% growth, and with the Wild Atlantic Way proving to be a great success at home and overseas, we can look forward to continued growth in the future.