REEKS DISTRICT scaling new heights...

CLIODHNA Foley, executive committee member with Mid Kerry Tourism Cluster, said the newly launched Reeks District has a lot of natural resources to work with which tourists can enjoy all year round.

The region that hugs Castlemaine Harbour from Inch to Rossbeigh is known as the ‘Reeks District’ with its own vibrant Visitor Centre in Killorglin. It’s all part of a new initiative aimed at elevating the future potential of the region which taps into the MacGillycuddy Reeks - home to the country’s three highest peaks, including Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain.

The two-pronged strategy hopes to encourage tourists who already visit the region to stay for longer, while also attracting a new kind of tourist to come and enjoy the natural landscape and adventure tourism. This twin approach has the potential to extend the season beyond the traditional summer season. The Reeks Distract was recently likened to the Lake District in the UK which is kudos to the massive potential the region has.

Speaking to The Kerryman recently, M Foley emphasised that the Reeks District has its own ‘5 Bs’ philosophy: Boots, Bikes, Boards, Boats and Body & Mind – a nod to the authentic and amazing outdoor experiences the region has to offer.

“There are experiences within each of these pillars that offer tourists a unique way of enjoying the region. While we’re trying to build a more sustainable market that would benefit local businesses, we also want the tourist season to grow to 10 or 11 months in the year. This targets hikers, walkers and cyclists which are not necessarily weather specific pursuits,” Ms Foley added.

The Chairman of Mid Kerry Tourism Cluster, Jens Bachem, said the MacGillycuddy Reeks are an iconic sight and one of Ireland’s ‘must-dos’ for adventure lovers which makes them a key focal point in Mid Kerry for promoting tourism.

“The Reeks District ensures that people are immediately aware of one of our major icons from the moment they hear or read about us, as well as inspiring them to visit the region to sample its many other experiences from wind surfing on Inch Beach to cycling the Gap of Dunloe,” said Mr Bachem.

The Mid Kerry Tourism Cluster is actively seeking new members. People who offer a service to tourists and who would like to get involved and share their ideas can contact the Reeks District Visitor Centre in Killorglin.