Donegal recently topped the ‘National Geographic’s Cool List for 2017’, the prestigious magazine’s annual roll call of places to visit in the coming year.
Compiled by a panel of National Geographic’s contributors, the list focuses on 17 must-see destinations for 2017 and details what the publication describes as “the culture capitals, hipster hot spot, wild escapes and places generally keeping it cool in 2017”.
The award is hugely significant for County Donegal and recognizes the collective work of Donegal Tourism Ltd and everyone involved in the tourism sector to promote Donegal as a unique adventure travel destination on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Last week, Mr. Matthew Jackson, the Managing Director and Publisher of National Geographic, visited Donegal to present a certificate awarding Donegal the title of ‘Coolest Place on the Planet’.
During his stay Mr. Jackson enjoyed two days of touring Donegal and visited the numerous places that the county has to offer, including Sliabh Liag, Glenveagh National Park, the Gaeltacht region and many more.
Mr. Seamus Neely, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council and Chairman of Donegal Tourism Ltd said that “this award has been of such importance in raising the profile of tourism in County Donegal that we felt it was of great importance to reach out to National Geographic, to thank them for this award and to extend an invitation to them to visit County Donegal and to get a taste of all of the ‘Cool’ experiences we have to offer in Donegal”.
Head of Tourism at Donegal County Council, Mr. Barney McLaughlin stated that “the visit of Matthew Jackson from National Geographic Traveller to Donegal is only the beginning; this is the first step in building a strong relationship between Donegal and the world famous National Geographic brand. We have discussed many opportunities to work together and we look forward to showcasing Donegal to a worldwide audience”.
Discussions for further collaboration between Donegal Tourism Ltd and National Geographic are in progress and the team will be working with closely with National Geographic in the coming weeks to develop an exciting marketing campaign.
To check out the entire 2017 ‘Cool List’ and read what National Geographic has to say about Donegal, just click here.
