The newest feature of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Geopark will be the construction of a new discovery facility near the Shannon Pot, the mouth of Ireland's longest river.

The project will also include a treetop walk and viewing platform in the neighbouring Cavan Burren Park. It is anticipated that the public will be able to use it in early 2026.

It is envisaged that the new projects would increase local tourism.

The Geopark, which spans Cavan and Fermanagh, is the world's first cross-border UNESCO geopark and is home to internationally significant geology.

It already includes the Cuilcagh Mountains Boardwalk, Cavan Burren Park, and Fermanagh's Marble Arch Caves.

The goal, according to Geopark manager Gráinne O'Connor, is to honour what she termed a "sacred landscape" and draw attention to the fact that Ireland's longest river originates here, in the 16-meter-wide Shannon Pot.

"We call it a hidden jewel, we think of it like an upside-down world, there's a large number of caves under here, this is a really fabulous limestone landscape and we hope to highlight to people, at this small site here, is the start of the biggest river in Ireland," she continued.


According to Ms. O'Connor, they were thrilled about the enormous opportunity to develop the region while showcasing Shannon's geology, mythology, and legends in a sustainable, financial, and environmental manner.

The initiative, which was one of four chosen to get significant money from Fáilte Ireland, will get €2.2 million from Cavan County Council in addition to almost €7 million from the organisation.