The future of outdoor tourism in Northern Ireland was the focus of two significant events in Enniskillen.

Tourism Northern Ireland (NI) brought together key stakeholders and industry representatives to discuss and support the implementation of the 'Embracing Outdoor Tourism' framework.

This framework aims to support the delivery of a strategic and coordinated approach to promote outdoor adventure, activity, and nature tourism in a strategic and coordinated manner.

It also aligns with the 10-year plan of the Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland, creating a partnership structure for Tourism NI to collaborate with other public authorities and the tourism industry.

(Image: Tourism NI) The first event, held at the Killyhevlin Hotel, saw key strategic stakeholders from various departments, including the Department for the Economy and the Department for Infrastructure, come together to support the framework's delivery.

The following day, the Outdoor Tourism Partnership, comprising of representatives from the Ireland Association for Adventure Tourism, senior council members, and outdoor activity representatives, gathered at the same location.

Both groups were welcomed by Maria McAlister, interim landscapes and activities tourism manager at Tourism NI.

They discussed the tourism, destination, and economic potential of developing world-class Greenways in Northern Ireland.

Guest speaker Michael Walsh presented the Waterford Greenway as a case study.

(Image: Tourism NI) The Interdepartmental Working Group and Outdoor Tourism Partnership also explored the opportunities, feasibility, and benefits of a strategic collaborative approach for such a development and learned about the current outdoor development plans for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

Following the meetings, both groups boarded the Island Discovery, an all-electric, eco-friendly vessel operated by Barry Flanagan, owner of Erne Water Taxi, which offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a range of boat tours along Lough Erne.

Ms McAlister said: "The Embracing Outdoor Tourism framework is a strategic initiative aimed at making Northern Ireland a leading destination for outdoor tourism, while ensuring that tourism growth is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to both visitors and local communities.

"In partnership with regional stakeholders, we are encouraging collaboration between public bodies, local authorities, tourism organisations, and private sector stakeholders.

"Working together, we can create a cohesive and compelling outdoor tourism product.

"Whilst in Enniskillen, we learned more about Greenway and Blueway development, and how capitalising on the region’s diverse landscapes can boost infrastructure development, accessibility and contribute positively to the region’s social, ecological and economic health."

The partnership is made up of the Ireland Association for Adventure Tourism, senior council representatives and outdoor activity representatives as well as Outscape, Translink, Sport NI, Disability Sport NI, the National Trust, the Forest Service, Waterways Ireland, the Loughs Agency, Mourne Heritage Trust, Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust, Landscapes NI, Northern Ireland Environment Link, Sustrans and international tour operator, Vagabond Tours.