The new, streamlined website will offer visitors three-hour slots to ascend the mountain. It aims to help conserve Northern Ireland’s largest blanket bog.
On Saturday 1 May, Cuilcagh Boardwalk launched a brand new, easy-to-use online car park booking system for members of the public.
The booking system will operate on a first-come-first-serve basis. It marks the beginning of new, sustainable development plans for the popular Irish attraction.
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk trail – Northern Ireland’s largest blanket bog
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk is four miles in length and ends with a final ascent via a steep section of wooden steps. These are locally nicknamed “The Stairway To Heaven”.
The trail has seen a steady rise in the number of visitors from across Northern Ireland each year since opening, thanks to its Instagram-worthy views.
As summer approaches, lots of outdoor adventure-lovers are expected to descend on the County Fermanagh walking trail as COVID-19 restrictions ease.
They have created the car park booking system to better manage crowds within social distancing regulations. They will be limiting numbers during the peak season and the safety of all staff and visitors will be ensured.
Lower daily numbers will also ensure the protection of the grounds and surrounding habitat. This is the original cause that led to the construction of the Boardwalk by UNESCO-endorsed Marble Arch Caves Geopark.
Managing crowds – conservation efforts
Landowner John Sheridan spoke on the new booking system and redevelopment plans for Cuilcagh Boardwalk. He said, “Now is the perfect time to launch our brand new online car park booking system for the Boardwalk.
“The safety of our staff and of our visitors is of the utmost importance. The introduction of timeslots will facilitate social distancing regulations while also protecting this area of Special Conservation.
“Our plans are helping to futureproof Cuilcagh Boardwalk so that we can continue to welcome tourists from across the globe for years to come.”
The new booking system – how it will work
To book a slot, hikers must visit www.theboardwalk.ie and select the desired timeslot.
Bookings will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis and will be available for three-hour slots. Customers will then receive a booking confirmation to gain entry to the premium car park.
The car park is close to the trail, offering an enhanced visitor experience.
The new booking system means premium car parking will be limited to pre-booking only, unless there are timeslots remaining on the day.
The new online car park booking system comes as part of early development plans for Cuilcagh Boardwalk as it gears up for the full return of the tourism industry in the coming months and years.
It is determined to remain a sustainable, environmentally mindful area for all to enjoy.
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council have supported this project.
