Laois has made the shortlist for the European Commission's 2026 European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism Award.
It joins Dubrovnik in Croatia, Geestland in Germany, Ibiza in Spain and Mariagerfjord in Denmark.
Marmaris in Turkey, Rebild in Denmark and Tartu in Estonia also make the shortlist.
Delegates from Laois County Council will travel to Brussels in November to represent Laois and Ireland in the competition.
"This recognition shines a light on the inspiring work happening across the county where businesses, community groups, volunteers, and local authority departments have come together to deliver tangible climate action and regenerative tourism initiative," said Regina Dunne, Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Activator in Laois.
"From Portlaoise's innovative low-carbon town and transport solutions, the many regeneration and development plans in villages and towns across the county, to the restoration and conservation work of the Abbeyleix Bog Project, and the vibrant 'Portlaoise – Town in a Garden’ initiative to name but a few examples," she added.
The European Commission said the overall title will be awarded to a destination that demonstrates "an exceptional commitment to shaping the future of sustainable and innovative tourism in Europe".
It said the shortlist was selected from 26 applicants across 18 countries and the winning destination "will be recognised as a pioneer of sustainable tourism, committed to the objectives of the European Green Deal".
