As sports tourism cements its role as a driver of longer stays and higher spend, Ireland is leaning into that momentum ahead of the 2027 Ryder Cup, using the golf event to engage Canadian travel advisors.
Tourism Ireland hosted an industry and media luncheon this week in Toronto, bringing together Canadian travel trade, media, and government representatives to highlight preparations for the 2027 Ryder Cup.
The event was attended by Ireland’s Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, and Ireland’s Ambassador to Canada, John Concannon, alongside invited industry guests.
The Ryder Cup will return to Ireland for the first time since 2006. Its return is expected to draw global attention to Ireland’s golf offering, particularly the village of Adare and Adare Manor, home to a Tom Fazio-designed championship course.
The luncheon also welcomed Canadian MP James Maloney, who has been instrumental in recognizing the contributions of the Irish community in Canada. In 2021, the House of Commons unanimously passed a motion designating March as Irish Heritage Month, acknowledging the nearly 4.5 million Canadians who claim Irish ancestry. Celebrations linked to Irish Heritage Month will take place across Canada throughout March.
“Ireland’s reputation as a premier destination for championship golf events is well established, and with over a third of the world’s natural links courses and renowned Irish hospitality, the island offers an unrivalled experience for visitors both on and off the course,” said Sandra Moffatt, Tourism Ireland’s Country Director for Canada.
“Golf travellers rarely travel for sport alone; they extend their stays, explore regions, and invest in premium experiences, making Ireland an ideal destination for travel trade looking to deliver high-value, immersive itineraries that resonate well beyond the fairway.”
Ireland has been named International Golf Destination of the Year multiple times by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators and welcomes more than 240,000 visiting golfers annually.
Its roster of courses includes established venues such as Royal Portrush Golf Club, host of the 153rd Open Championship in 2025, Royal County Down Golf Club, and Old Head Golf Links, alongside newer additions such as St Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna and Curracloe Links, scheduled to open in 2027.
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