Kerry town to host national adventure-tourism conference

Ireland's Association for Adventure Tourism (IAAT) is preparing to host its sixth annual conference next month and, fittingly, it's coming to the county's tourism capital, Killarney.

National and international experts will take part in proceedings, which get underway with delegates taking part in a range of local adventure experiences such as biking, hiking, horse-riding, kayaking, and more besides. An evening of networking with local tourism operators takes place afterwards at the Gleneagle.

"We want to extend a warm welcome to adventure enthusiasts, industry leaders, tour operators, activity providers and agents to Kerry," Kerry County Council (KCC) Cathaoirleach Breandán Fitzgerald said following the November 27 and 28 event's launch. "Kerry offers a world-class array of experiences that promise to delight visitors of all interests and ability levels." IAAT Chief Executive Brendan Kenny explained that this year's event coincides with the 10th anniversary of the International Adventure Summit taking place in Killarney.

"So 10 years on, it seems apt to come back to this magical corner of the world, boasting such a wealth of outdoor adventure options," he said.

"We are grateful to Kerry County Council for supporting this important annual event at such a vital time in the recovery of tourism, in this the 10th year of the Wild Atlantic Way.

"We look forward to two days of insights, inspiration and getting the adrenaline going through some of the exciting activities available!"

The theme of this year's conference – People. Process. Place – promotes the role the outdoor-activity tourism sector plays in providing its wares in a responsible manner, protecting our natural landscape.

Those included on this year's line-up are Tourism Ireland CEO Alice Mansergh; Wild Atlantic Way Head Miriam Kennedy; and many more, including Ireland's leading outdoor-activity operators.

More information and remaining tickets are available at conference.iaat.ie.