Adventure Travel News – 31 October 2025

This week, Northern Ireland steps forward in the world of sustainable adventure travel — with new initiatives to support responsible tourism businesses, international operators exploring its landscapes, and long-term investment in outdoor infrastructure.

Tourism Businesses Join Sustainability Programme

Wooden boardwalk leading through green ferns towards the Mourne Mountains under dramatic clouds in Northern Ireland. — A winding path towards the Mourne Mountains — part of Northern Ireland’s growing network of trails for walking holidays and outdoor adventures.

Tourism Northern Ireland has launched a fresh support programme helping local businesses strengthen their environmental, digital, and accessibility standards. The initiative offers guidance, training, and resources designed to help rural stays, experience providers, and visitor attractions adapt to a more sustainable, year-round tourism model.

Why it matters

‍This programme underpins the growth of self-guided walking holidays by encouraging greener accommodation, better connections between trails and towns, and a consistent quality of experience for visitors travelling independently.

International Operators Discover Northern Ireland’s Great Outdoors

Stone wall running along the ridge of the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland, with rugged peaks and valleys stretching into the distance. — The Mourne Wall winding through Northern Ireland’s highest peaks — a defining feature of the Mourne Mountains and a classic challenge for walkers.

A group of leading international tour operators recently toured Northern Ireland, exploring its coastline, mountains, and food-led experiences. Their itinerary included foraging workshops, coastal walking, and visits to the Mourne Mountains and Fermanagh Lakelands.

Why it matters

‍This renewed international attention highlights Northern Ireland’s potential as a destination for sustainable outdoor adventures — showcasing landscapes that lend themselves naturally to self-guided exploration and low-impact travel

Investment Planned for Trails and Visitor Infrastructure

Walkers on the Giant’s Causeway — one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic coastal landscapes and a highlight of the Causeway Coast Way.

Tourism Northern Ireland has confirmed new investment plans aimed at enhancing visitor infrastructure, improving trail networks, and expanding access across rural regions. The long-term strategy focuses on spreading visitors more evenly throughout the country and improving connections between attractions, towns, and natural landscapes.

Why it matters

‍Better infrastructure means more choice for independent travellers — easier access to trails, improved signage, and new places to stay near walking routes. It’s a clear sign that Northern Ireland is preparing for the rise of sustainable, self-guided adventure tourism.

NATIONAL LANDSCAPE STAY

NORTHERN IRELAND | COUNTY ANTRIM

CAUSEWAY COAST NATIONAL LANDSCAPE (AONB)

Causeway Lodge

www.selfguidedtravel.com > stays > causeway-lodge

Causeway Lodge | Self Guided Travel

Based near Bushmills, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, within the Causeway Coast National Landscape. A 5-star, family-run guest house personally managed by Anne and Lyle Taggart. Offering luxurious rooms, wellness facilities, and a warm local welcome — an ideal base for walkers and adventurers exploring the Giant’s Causeway, Causeway Coast Way, and Glens of Antrim.

NATIONAL LANDSCAPE STAY

NORTHERN IRELAND | COUNTY DOWN

MOURNE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL LANDSCAPE (AONB)

Mourne Country House

www.selfguidedtravel.com > stays > mourne-country-house

Mourne Country House | Self Guided Travel

Based in Kilkeel, County Down, Northern Ireland, within the Mourne Mountains National Landscape (formerly AONB). A family-run guesthouse offering welcoming accommodation for walkers and outdoor adventurers exploring the Mournes. Enjoy peaceful views, hearty breakfasts, and relaxed hospitality in one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic walking regions.

SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAYS

IRELAND | GALWAY

WILD ATLANTIC WAY

Cliffs and coves near Dunquin Harbour on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry — a highlight of self-guided walking holidays in Ireland with Hillwalk Tours.

Hillwalk Tours

www.selfguidedtravel.com > walking-holidays-with > hillwalk-tours

Hillwalk Tours | Self Guided Travel

Based in Galway, Ireland, along the Wild Atlantic Way. Specialising in self-guided walking holidays with detailed route notes, local accommodation, and luggage transfers for independent walking adventures.