Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, in partnership with Cavan County Council, has this week launched an exciting new brand for the former Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, with a renewed emphasis on communities, engagement and tourism. ‘Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark’ as it is now known, spans the bordering counties of Cavan and Fermanagh and contains some of the finest landscapes on this island, ranging from rugged uplands, lakes and forests through to gently rolling drumlins. The neighbouring councils who jointly manage the Geopark undertook the re-branding exercise in consultation with the community and wider stakeholders across the business and tourism sector.   

 

Geopark Manager, Gráinne O’Connor commented: “As the Geopark designation in counties Cavan and Fermanagh continues to evolve we are delighted to introduce this rebrand which will build on the incredible work done by many to date in ensuring this landscape and the communities who live in it continue to be recognised by UNESCO. We are committed to continuing in our mission to preserve and celebrate the unique heritage, geology, archaeology and culture of this landscape, working in tandem with local communities and businesses”.  

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Chief Executive, Alison McCullagh also commented saying, "Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is proud of its stunning natural and built heritage and Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark is a major part of this heritage.  2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Geopark and this renaming and rebranding represents a re-focus on the area, its people, history, and geography”. Alison continued expressing the importance of Geoparks for the local economy, creation of jobs and tourism for the area. She said she is confident the park will continue to support sustainable tourism in the long term.”

Fermanagh’s neighbouring county also expressed their delight at the new initiative. Chief Executive of Cavan County Council Tommy Ryan said he is “pleased to join with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to launch the rebranded Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark”. He continued saying “Counties Cavan and Fermanagh are fortunate to share spectacular scenery, unique geology, rich heritage, and welcoming, vibrant communities and this new brand identity will showcase the very best of what our Geopark has to offer to visitors and to those who live and work here. 

Chair of the Geopark Committee, Councillor John Paul Feeley who grew up “in the shadow of Cuilcagh” said he always knew there was “something special about the place.” He stated that the new Geopark is tremendous example of cross-border collaboration, and it gives a name to the “unmistakable magic” the area possesses. Counsellor Feeley concluded that the geopark will bring “further sustainable growth to a remarkable region.”

 

Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark invites us all to explore the history, geology, and special nature of the region, and to protect it for future generations. The Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre remains an integral Geosite within the Geopark and will continue to form part of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark along with sites such as Cavan Burren Park, Shannon Pot, Lough Navar, and Cuilcagh Boardwalk.  

 

. 

Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark is yours to share, enjoy, protect, and appreciate.   

Visit www.cuilcaghlakelands.org for more information.