Ireland has made the shortlist for the EU’s annual flagship smart tourism award – the 2026 European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism Award – along with Croatia, Germany, Spain, Türkiye, Denmark, and Estonia.
According to the European Commission, the award goes to the destination which demonstrates “an exceptional commitment to shaping the future of sustainable and innovative tourism in Europe”.
The final shortlist was whittled down from 26 applicants across 18 countries and the winning destination – which will be crowned at a gala reception in Brussels in November – “will be recognised as a pioneer of sustainable tourism, committed to the objectives of the European Green Deal,” the EU said.
The award focuses on regions rather than whole countries. Laois will represent Ireland, Ibiza Spain, Tartu Estonia, Mariagerfjord Denmark, Geestland Germany, Rebild in Denmark, Dubrovnik in Croatia and Marmaris in Türkiye.
“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 initiative,” said Regina Dunne, Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Activator in Laois.
“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,” she added.