Overview
The Tralee Bay Wetlands project was conceived by Tralee Town Council as an innovative and sustainable visitor attraction. It was designed and developed to the highest international standards, aimed at attracting up to 50,000 tourists per annum. The project, costing €4.5m to develop, was jointly funded by Tralee Town Council and Failte Ireland under the National Development Plan (2007-2013).
The project is unique in Ireland and is leading the way in the vastly expanding eco tourism market in Kerry. It is strategically located on the gateway to the Dingle Peninsula and will greatly enhance the visitor product offering in Tralee. The Wetlands Centre utilises the rich natural heritage of the Tralee Bay area, which is a nature reserve of international importance.
Background
Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre is adjacent to the greater Tralee Bay which is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and is a designated Natura 2000 site. Tralee Bay was one of the first sites to be accredited by Ramsar as a wetlands of international importance in Ireland.
Officially Opened to the public in May 2013, Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre is set to be one of Kerry’s major visitor and eco attractions. The brainchild of over ten years planning of Tralee Town Council this project became possible with the help of co-funding from Failte Ireland the national tourism authority of Ireland under the YEAR National Development Plan.
The centre and its facilities are unique to the South of Ireland and are leading the way in the vastly expanding eco-tourism market. Located on the gateway to the Dingle Peninsula and on the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW), Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre is a must-see attraction for County Kerry. In 2013 the Guided Nature Boat Tour received Silver accreditation from Eco Tourism Ireland.
The Wetlands Centre is designed as a microcosm of the wild nature reserve it adjoins and utilises the rich natural heritage of the Tralee Bay area, which is a nature reserve of international importance. Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre overlooks the greater Tralee Bay; which encompasses over 8000 acres (3247ha) of pristine nature reserve.
Vibrant on the one hand, tranquil on the other, Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre is really a fantastic place to visit with facilities and activities to cater for all ages making your visit a uniquely individual experience. Whether you are looking for an all-action activity outdoor day or a quiet and peaceful break from the stresses of modern living, the range of options is here.