KATHRYN THOMAS ENCOURAGES IRISH HOLIDAYMAKERS TO
‘WANDER OFF THE TRACK’ THIS SUMMER
(Tuesday, 1st June 2021) As hotel and accommodation providers re-open tomorrow, Carlow Tourism is calling on Irish holidaymakers to ‘Wander off the Track’ as part of a new brand strategy and promotional campaign for the county. The campaign launched today by broadcast presenter and Carlow native, Kathryn Thomas, aims to attract intrepid visitors to the county who are looking for less discovered, good value breaks with breath-taking scenery, outdoor adventures and memorable experiences.
Carlow is known for its wide open spaces and the new campaign hones in on the current demand for outdoor experiences and water activities as Michael Walsh, Chairman of Carlow Tourism and General Manager of the Seven Oaks Hotel explains; ‘All our members in the hospitality and tourism industry have pulled out all the stops to welcome visitors safely over the coming months. The latest Fáilte Ireland research* shows that 46% of people plan to take a short break in Ireland over the next six months and we are calling on those people to consider looking inland for their holiday this year. We have evolved our brand to reflect the growing interest in exploring the road less travelled. From hiking tours of Mount Leinster to foraging along eco trails to stunning gardens and leisure walking along the River Barrow; Carlow offers visitors great value and so much to see and do’.
Unlike many coastal counties, there is still availability in hotels, self-catering and B&B’s in Carlow throughout the summer and into the Autumn months. A family of four can expect weekend hotel breaks in a family room including dinner for €385 or if you are looking for something different, how about staying with a group of friends for three nights in four eco-friendly shepherd’s huts at the foothills of the Blackstairs Mountains for €800.
Commenting on the development of outdoor experiences in the county, Michael Rainey, Director of Services with Carlow County Council said “We want to attract more visitors to County Carlow in the future and spread the benefits of tourism across the county in a way that enriches our communities while, at the same time, maintaining our distinctive identity and protecting our natural environment. As a primarily rural county, Carlow offers character, unique cultural experiences, natural resources and perfect backdrops for a great range of outdoor activities.”
Some of the many holiday experiences, visitors can expect include:
- Guided hiking trails in the Blackstairs Mountains or Mount Leinster and leisure walks along the scenic Barrow Way.
- A variety of boat trips along the River Barrow to relax and spot local wildlife such as kingfishers, otters and dragonflies.
- Experience the growing trend for water activities with kayaking, canoeing or paddle-boarding on offer including ‘splash and dash’ trips through rapids, weirs and waterfalls!
- Support the arts. Attend one of many events and exhibitions taking place in VISUAL arts centre and the former Braun factory as part of Carlow Arts Festival which runs from June 4th – 13th.
- Play a round of golf, cycle along the Barrow Way or enjoy and roam the county’s many impressive gardens and historic houses.
The ‘Wander off the Track’ brand, developed in partnership with brand agency TOTEM, ties in and will benefit from Fáilte Ireland’s ‘Keep Discovering’ national promotion. The promotion is set to invest €4 million across the regions over the summer and into the autumn months.
Kathryn Thomas is planning on touring Ireland this summer and she explains the appeal of her home county; “Like everyone else I am looking forward to a break and a change of scenery this summer. Growing up in Carlow town, I was always struck by the beauty and expanse of the countryside. It has so much to offer yet it is often overlooked as a holiday destination. It might not have a coastline but with endless hiking, kayaking, golfing and incredible gardens and castles to explore, there is literally a break to suit everyone. As we head into a second summer of staycations, why not try somewhere new and discover the less frequented parts of Ireland. With great places to stay, great service and of course great people, I can’t think of anywhere better to explore and unwind than Carlow”.
To celebrate the launch of the Carlow Tourism brand, members are offering a number of ‘Wander off the Track’ special offers that will suit everyone from families to young and older holidaymakers. A full list of offers is available on www.carlowtourism.com
Follow the hashtag #wanderoffthetrack on our social media channels for more information, videos and offers.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlowtourism
Twitter: https://twitter.com/carlowtourism handle: @carlowtourism
Instagram: @Carlow_Tourism
Ends.
For further information, media or tourism images and/or to set up on interview with Michael Walsh, Chairman, Carlow Tourism or Eileen O’Rourke, CEO, Carlow Tourism, please contact Hazel Dobbyn, Narrate PR, 087 4190341 hazel@narratepr.ie
Notes to Editor:
Carlow Tourism is the marketing and tourism development company for County Carlow whose remit is to increase the number of domestic and overseas holidaymakers to the county and maximise economic benefits vis-à-vis job creation and revenue for the entire county of Carlow. The company aims to provide a cohesive approach to tourism marketing and development planning in
co-operation and collaboration with all relevant agencies with a remit for tourism development within County Carlow. www.carlowtourism.com
