Joyce Country Western Lakes Geopark receives prestigious UNESCO status
By The Kylemore Abbey Team
On Thursday 23rd April 2026 (Embargo) The Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark will receive its UNESCO Global Geopark accolade, a first UNESCO Global Geopark in Connacht, and the fifth on the Island of Ireland. Exclusively, the JCWL UNESCO Geopark includes the only Gaeltacht region in a UNESCO Geopark on the island of Ireland and globally.
This high-profile international badge of honour recognises the JCWL Geopark’s outstanding natural beauty, unique culture, rich heritage, Irish Language – Gaeltacht region, progressive and strong community spirit along with its inspired people.
The JCWL UNESCO Global Geopark encapsulates 20 highly motivated and determined communities across north County Galway, south west County Mayo inclusive of the Gaeltacht. Each community is dedicated to maintaining their individual charm and ethos while working together to sustain, nurture and support unique cultural and heritage skill sets and traditions.
Embracing new opportunities also forms part of the agenda especially those which complement the sustained developmental efforts of people and their communities in order to achieve the coveted UNESCO status for the region.