Ireland’s National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland, has said that adventure tourism is worth more than €852m (US$1bn, £667m) to the country’s economy, and growing.

Speaking ahead of the World Adventure Summit – a gathering of the world’s top adventure park specialists – which kicked off yesterday (5 October) in Kerry, Fáilte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn said the figure is increasing each and every year.

The Fáilte research includes revenue from all adventure activities – ranging from hardcore adventurers such as skydivers, to families on forest bike rides.

“This is big – big for tourism and big for the Wild Atlantic Way,” said Shaun Quinn, Fáilte Ireland’s CEO.

“Ireland has long been known for its friendly people, heritage and culture, but is increasingly recognised as a holiday destination for adventure enthusiasts, active families and outdoors enthusiasts.”

Around 700 delegates were welcomed to the World Adventure Summit on 5 October, though many were already in the country sampling the adventure tourism on offer. By hosting the summit, Ireland is expected to generate an additional €1m (US$1.2m, £783,000) in direct economic impact.