Laois shortlisted for European Commission tourism award

Laois has made the shortlist of the European Commission's European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism Award 2026.

Laois will compete alongside Dubrovnik (Croatia), Geestland (Germany), Ibiza (Spain), Mariagerfjord (Denmark), Marmaris (Türkiye), Rebild (Denmark), Tartu (Estonia), to be recognised as a pioneer destination of sustainable tourism.

Delegates from Laois County Council will travel to Brussels in November to represent Laois and Ireland in this prestigious competition.

Commenting on the announcement, Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Activator in Laois, Regina Dunne, said: "We are thrilled that Laois has been shortlisted as a European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2025. This recognition shines a light on the inspiring work happening across the county where businesses, community groups, volunteers, and local authority departments have come together to deliver tangible climate action and regenerative tourism initiatives.

From Portlaoise’s innovative low-carbon town and transport solutions, the many regeneration and development plans in villages and towns across the county, to the restoration and conservation work of the Abbeyleix Bog Project, and the vibrant 'Portlaoise – Town in a Garden’ initiative to name but a few examples, Laois is showing how collaboration can create sustainable places to live and work while also being recognised on a European level as a destination to visit."

Director of Services, Angela McEvoy, said: "Being shortlisted among many well-known European tourism destinations highlights not just the capability of Laois being a capital of sustainable and regenerative tourism, but the power of partnership in building a future where tourism not only sustains but regenerates our communities and natural environment. It is a testament to the vision, collaboration, and commitment in Laois to shape a model of tourism that respects heritage, nurtures biodiversity, and empowers people."

Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr Barry Walsh, was delighted with the news. 

"We are honoured to be shortlisted and  recognised on the European stage as a County which implements and promotes green practices and sustainability.  This is a recognition of our ongoing commitment to building a greener and more responsible future," he said.