3D virtual reality experience opening soon at Mayo's holy mountain

A new initiative in place at the foot of Croagh Patrick has been highly praised by a Mayo Oireachtas member.

Senator Mark Duffy elaborated: "It is an immersive virtual reality experience that guides people up the mountain.

"I am highlighting it because it is a good example of a tourist attraction that would generally be inaccessible to many people for reasons of disability, inability or mobility.

"Thankfully, because of the ingenuity and the innovation from the Mayo north-east leadership programme, they have invested in this 3D technology, which brings you on a guided journey up the pilgrimage mountain.

"You are escorted alongside a St. Patrick figure, who brings you up and tells you the story of Patrick.

"It is an interesting, enjoyable and good telling of the story. It is a very good example of inclusive tourist experiences.

"For anyone who is not able to climb a mountain, to have at a busy tourist attraction a way to bring that experience to their doorstep through the visitor centre is something that we should highlight, share and promote.

"For all of the tourist attractions that we all have in our counties, it is fairly affordable to be able to do.

"It makes a big difference for people, especially those who are vulnerable or are not able-bodied, to be able to do something such as a climb or visit a cliff face.

"I compliment them. It is officially in May.

"It is a positive investment in the area and it could be rolled out to tourist attractions around the country."

The new initiative is located at Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre in Murrisk.