County Clare, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is gaining recognition as a versatile destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. Combining modern facilities with natural beauty, Clare provides an attractive setting for business travellers seeking a blend of productivity and memorable experiences.
The county boasts a range of venues tailored for professional gatherings. The Inn at Dromoland, located near Newmarket-on-Fergus, offers conference facilities for up to 450 delegates, with flexible meeting rooms equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and advanced audio-visual technology. The Falls Hotel in Ennistymon provides a charming option, with spaces for up to 300 guests and scenic grounds ideal for networking breaks. For smaller meetings, the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis features elegant boardrooms and banquet suites, accommodating up to 250 delegates with bespoke catering options.
Incentive travel in Clare draws on the county’s natural and cultural attractions. Organisers can arrange team-building activities such as guided hikes in the Burren National Park or private tours of Bunratty Castle, offering delegates a chance to engage with the region’s heritage. Coastal experiences, like boat trips to the Cliffs of Moher, provide unique opportunities for group bonding. Clare’s compact geography ensures these attractions are easily accessible, allowing seamless integration into business itineraries.
Accessibility strengthens Clare’s MICE appeal. Shannon Airport, a major international hub, is centrally located in the county, offering direct flights to Europe and North America. Regular bus services, including Bus Éireann routes, connect Ennis and other towns to Limerick and Galway, while good road networks and on-site parking at venues simplify logistics. Local event planners, supported by Clare Tourism and Fáilte Ireland, provide expertise to ensure smooth execution of conferences and incentive programmes.
Accommodation options cater to business needs, with hotels like the Inn at Dromoland and the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point offering comfortable rooms alongside meeting facilities. Smaller venues, such as the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis, provide intimate spaces for executive retreats or product displays, complemented by locally sourced dining. The county’s hospitality sector focuses on delivering professional yet welcoming experiences for delegates.
Clare’s combination of modern infrastructure and authentic attractions makes it a practical choice for MICE tourism. From well-equipped conference venues to engaging incentive activities, the county offers a balanced environment where business and leisure harmonise effectively.
MICE
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