Fingal County Council has launched a new destination tourism brand: Explore Fingal.
The gala event at the Grand Hotel, Malahide yesterday unveiled the new destination brand identity complete with dedicated website and social media platforms.
Explore Fingal is a key milestone in the implementation of the Fingal Tourism Strategy 2024-2029 and includes a full programme of marketing and development initiatives that will support Fingal’s tourism growth.
Pictured at the launch were:
Back l-r: Aidan Power, Tourism Ireland; Declan Power, Fingal County Council, Paul Keeley (Fáilte Ireland), John Quinlivan, Fingal County Council Photograph: Fintan Clarke/Coaslesce
Front: Catherine Flanagan (AVEA), Mayor of Fingal Cllr. Tom O’Leary, AnnMarie Farrelly, Fingal County Council
Through Explore Fingal, the county will enhance its distinctive, authentic destination positioning as a premier cultural, coastal, and culinary destination.
Explore Fingal sits under the Visit Dublin brand and is aligned with national tourism strategy through Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland. Together tourism, hospitality, and wider industry partners will combine to activate the next phase of Fingal’s destination growth.
Heather Gilroy and Peter O’Neill from Prints of Ireland who designed the series of postcards were pictured with Mayor of Fingal Cllr. Tom O’Leary at the launch of the new destination tourism brand Explore Fingal at the Grand Hotel, Malahide
Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: “The launch of Explore Fingal, the new destination tourism brand, is a significant step in consolidating and highlighting the tourism offering within Fingal.
“It represents a real opportunity for our communities and businesses to benefit from a heightened profile. We have a wealth of natural assets in tourism and an unparalleled location within easy reach of Dublin city.”
The essence of the Explore Fingal brand is the surprising and rewarding nature of this familiar yet relatively unexplored area of north county Dublin.
The Explore Fingal colour palette reflects a place that’s vibrant, surprising and full of contrast.
The core colours are nature based – sea green, deep rooted green and warm sand.
These are supported by a swatch of bright and vivacious accent colours.
Fingal offers a refreshingly authentic and emotionally rewarding Irish experience — one that’s easy to reach, rich in story, and powered by people.
By building on the county’s proven assets and strengths and leading with mature, well-known products and experiences, clustered with those still developing, Fingal will consolidate its position as a tourism destination.
Fingal media personality Simon Delaney acted as MC for the Explore Fingal launch event, and the keynote speech was delivered by Catherine Flanagan, CEO of the Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions (AVEA).
Significant tourist attractions in Fingal include Malahide Castle & Gardens, Newbridge House & Farm, Farmleigh House, Howth Castle, Ardgillan Castle & Gardens, Skerries Mills, Shackleton Garden and the Seamus Ennis Arts Centre.
AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, commented: “Explore Fingal showcases Fingal as a proactive, forward-looking local authority delivering on its commitments.
“We recognise the significance of the tourism and hospitality sector within the county and launching Explore Fingal is a key milestone in the implementation of the Fingal Tourism Strategy (2024-2029).
“We see ongoing opportunities for investment and growth and are confident that the sector will expand and thrive”.
The Fingal Tourism strategy recognises the crucial role of sustainable tourism in preserving the essence of Fingal for future generations.
The approach emphasises responsible practices, prioritising the conservation of the environment, and the celebration of Fingal’s identity.
Fingal boasts a thriving food and drink sector encompassing diverse culinary traditions, local producers and a flourishing hospitality sector.
Recognising the ongoing importance of fostering a long term, sustainable and thriving food sector, Fingal County Council developed the Fingal Food & Drink Policy 2024-2029 which is being implemented in conjunction with the Tourism Strategy
Visitors and industry partners can explore the new destination brand and discover experiences across Fingal on the evolving new destination website www.ExploreFingal.ie.