Inishowen tourism body celebrates a  year of   ‘exceptional achievements’

Inishowen tourism body Go Visit Inishowen has said it 2025 has seen exceptional achievements “marked by strong community engagement, innovative tourism initiatives, vibrant events”.

The  tourism development and marketing organisation for the Inishowen peninsula says there has been significant digital growth that has amplified the Inishowen’s profile as a must-visit destination on the Wild Atlantic Way. 

At the end of 2024 and beginning of 2025, a new board and management team were appointed to the body which is based at the visitor centre in Buncrana.

Niall McCaughan, who was appointed the new manager at the end of February stated: "It's been a great year for Go Visit Inishowen which in the last 12 months has grown from strength to strength. I know the region well, but continually travelling across it in my new role, I am struck with the quality, authentic, diverse offer, including not only our fantastic landscape, but also our heritage, beaches, arts and crafts, accommodation offer, eateries, festivals, and much much more.

“There was a concentration this year on bringing stability to the organisation, engaging the public as well as the trade, as well as increasing the profile generally. We also have been working on a new short-long term strategy for the organisation, taking account of changes both within the organisation, as well as external factors.

“This year saw a fantastic turnout for I Love Inishowen Day, a celebration of community spirit and local pride in Inishowen brought together businesses, residents, and visitors across the peninsula. The event inspired creative local activities and social media buzz, showcasing the richness of Inishowen’s culture, scenery, and hospitality — and setting the stage for even greater community involvement in 2026.

“In July, Go Visit Inishowen launched the inaugural Meet the Maker week, celebrating Inishowen’s unique arts and crafts scene. Local artisans opened their studios, offered demonstrations, and featured in exhibitions that highlighted the authentic stories and skills that make the region special. This event was repeated again at Christmas in conjunction with our colleagues at Failte Ireland which included not only profiling them over two weeks, but also taking a cabin at the Buncrana Christmas Market.

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“In partnership with Inishowen Development Partnership, the Inishowen Walking Festival also ran across September, inviting walkers of all levels to explore the peninsula’s breathtaking landscapes through a varied programme of guided walks. This annual event continues to promote active tourism and connection with Inishowen’s extraordinary natural heritage. It was great to see trails being developed and launched by the North West Community Development.

“As part of our ongoing work towards building and working in partnership with the trade, on June 4th, Go Visit Inishowen hosted a highly successful Trade Meet & Greet at Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa, bringing together tourism providers from across the region. The event offered insight into future plans, facilitated networking, and celebrated collaborative partnerships vital to building a world-class tourism offering across Inishowen.

Go Visit Inishowen attended a number of trade events including the Balmoral Show, Clonmany Festival, TBEX amongst others, and is looking forward to attending the Holiday World Show in Belfast and Dublin in January 2026. GVI also worked closely with Foyle Port this year and welcomed every single cruise ship that arrived into Greencastle.

“A highlight of the year was the launch of the new look 2025 Inishowen Visitor Map Guide, developed in direct response to feedback from local tourism providers. This user-friendly pocket guide features the best current map of Inishowen (as the trade demanded) comprehensive listings and highlights key attractions, amenities, and new points of interest across the peninsula — including EV charging points and greenway routes — making it easier than ever for visitors to explore Inishowen.

"It has been a pleasing success story, and there already is interest in the new 2026 Guide which is underway. The trade that took part in this guide, also featured on our website, tourist centre, and as importantly, are actively promoted at trade shows and the like across Donegal and further afield.

“Go Visit Inishowen’s social media channels have seen continued expansion, reinforcing the organisation’s digital presence and audience engagement. A recent milestone saw the official Facebook page surpass 10,000 followers, reflecting growing interest in the region and the resonance of Inishowen’s story with global audiences.

“Building on 2025’s momentum, Go Visit Inishowen is already planning new initiatives, partnerships, and enhanced visitor experiences for 2026. The focus remains on sustainable tourism growth, strengthened collaboration with trade and community partners, and innovative storytelling that invites visitors to experience the beauty, culture, and spirit of Inishowen. 

“We would like to thank Pobal, Inishowen Development Partnership, Donegal County Council and Failte Ireland in particular for their support over the year, as well as the trade across the region, who have also supported us and provided us with an exceptional offer to market. We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year, and remind people to put Inishowen on their next holiday visit, and as our new tagline says, Inishowen, where Ireland begins and adventures never end!”