N Ireland Business Awards 2017

16 SME NEWS / Northern Ireland Business Awards 2017 , Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre gives visitors a chance to explore the Burren’s uniquely shaped underworld and enjoy unexpected freedomwithmajestic Birds of Prey. Nuala Mulqueeney talks to us about the company’s services which it provides. Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre At Aillwee, guests are able to indulge in the tasty rewards of smoky, traditional, farmhouse Burren Gold cheese or sweet fudge. Nuala talks us through the establishment’s projects and services offered, before discussing what differentiates itself from other similar facilities. “Here at Aillwee, we promote a variety of marketing strategies. This type of cross marketing is having positive effects for us, with the benefits including an increase in visitors who spend time in the area, whilst also attracting visitors to the area during the shoulder months of the traditional tourist season. “Being a family run tourist attraction that is open all year round in a traditional typical eight month per year tourist season, is something that we feel bucks the trend in our region. We hope that other businesses can follow our lead which will ultimately attract more visitors year round to The Burren, North Clare and County Clare region.” Running guided cave tours also helps visitors and guests have an unforgettable experience. Return business is a key indicator of success, and Nuala is keen to point out how the guides pride themselves on ensuring that visitors have a good time. “Ultimately, our guided cave tours of the unique Burren Aillwee Cave system are small in numbers. Our guides pride themselves in imparting their educational information in an easy, friendly manner that includes everyone from young to not so young. Additionally, staff also continually strive to create and maintain a connection with visitors during the cave tour. “Our falconers at the birds of prey centre are very knowledgeable and again keen to share their insights by being inclusive in their approach. Our Flying Displays are hugely interactive with members of the audience actively encouraged to take part. “Looking ahead, we will continue to be successful. We offer visitors one to one hands on time with our raptors. Called a hawk walk, this hour-long stroll through our Hazel Woodland with a Harris Hawk and falconer to guide has become a very popular and unique experience. Our team- managers, cave tour guides, shop staff, cheesemakers and aides, falconers and volunteers have been and continue to be highly praised and reviewed by our visitors which speaks for itself.” Company: Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre Contact: Nuala Mulqueeney, Director Email: [email protected] Address: Ballyvaughan, The Burren, Co Clare, Rep. of Ireland Phone: 00353 65 7077036 Website: www.aillweecave.ie Natural Tourist Attraction of the Year 2017 NIR17003 Photograph by Robbie Reynolds