Check out the Top 4 reasons you need to team build in Cork. At Bigpotatoes we pride ourselves in the way we put events together to suit our clients. Destinations are a major fact in that process. Today we are looking at our cities and giving you firstly, the top 5 reasons you need to team build in Cork.

Without banging on about it too much, it is important to keep the focus on the purpose of the trip. It’s about team building and not about individual satisfaction or gratification. It’s all about the team, so get the team, the whole team and nothing but the team involved in the planning of the trip to Cork.

Work through a list. The team leader should draw up and finalise the list making sure that all details are covered no matter how insignificant they may appear. Location, accommodation, transport options, activities, indoor and outdoor, music, food and drink and return journey.

So, here are our top 5 reasons you need to team build in Cork.

1. Range of outdoor activities

It’s “how long is a piece of string” answer that comes to mind. Let’s take a look a few, well, a couple anyway. One of

the most popular is go-karting. We have several on our list, both indoor and outdoor but with fingers crossed on the weather we will go outdoors. The buzz the team will get from karting hardly needs to be explained. It’s motor car racing at a small and safe level. Who doesn’t want to be a Lewis Hamilton tearing into corners, screeching round the hair pin bends, overtaking on the straight, beating your fellow team members, competing against the clock; throw in the imaginary crowd, the smell of fuel, the thought of a pit stop with pretend change of tyres and of course the television cameras focusing on the team as they battle each other for line honours.

Another great outdoor activity that the team will love is a harbour trip on a high speed rib. No Dear, it’s not the rib that the lord took from Adam to make eve”, it’s a high speed power boat that planes on the water.

On a calm day, the adrenalin rush that the team will experience as the rib speeds over the water is pure exhilaration. Of course the drivers are professional and all on board are fitted with life jackets and sitting on special seats. No cobwebs in the head after this trip.

2. Indoor activities in Cork city for the team.

One of the favorite ones of course is 10 pin bowling. Again the team leaders can divide up the group into small teams and they can compete against one another. Listen to the

clatter as the bowling balls hit the skittles. On the other hand listen to the roars of laughter as the ball drops into the drain and misses the whole mass of “wooden soldiers”.

This is a terrific option is the weather is anyway lousy. The Cork people will swear that it only rains between midnight and eight in the morning.

3. Cork is Big enough to have loads of options but small enough to be personal.

The centre of the city lies between the north and the south channel of the river lee and most of the Craic and shopping is in that area. If there are ladies on the team building event they will need retail therapy and Cork won’t disappoint.

4. Booze, Burgers and Beds.

Everything that the team will need in the above departments are in full supply in Cork City and at all different price levels. Add in the natives and you can be sure that this will tick the box for the top 5 reasons you need to team build in Cork.

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5 reasons why Cork is the best location for team building

There is nowhere better than Cork as a location for team building. Ireland is like a square with four distinctive sides. Cork, is the bottom section or more correctly the southern part.

All sides are washed by the sea as we are a small island and as Cork has the second best natural harbor in the world. It’s an ideal location for team building activities involving marine and water sports.

Let’s take just five reasons why Cork is the best location for team building.

Cork is easily accessible by Road from all major Cities in Ireland, has an excellent rail network servicing the main centers of population. It has an International airport for groups coming from abroad using Cork as a team building venue.

In Cork Harbour, The Royal Cork Yacht Club, founded in 1720 is an ideal location to get into team sailing under supervision. Cobh, on the other side of Cork Harbour is another brilliant spot to do some water sports. Where team building will involve maneuvering sailing or motor vessels in the safety of the harbor and under the excellent control of seasoned mariners.

A trip to the historic Spike Island where military games are organized for teams competing against each other in an action packed couple of hours where teams will rely on each other to avoid all sorts of obstacles in the outdoor theatre. This is a fantastic team building and thought provoking experience that will require multitasking and leadership skills. Cobh is connected to Cork City by rail, has some excellent bars, restaurants and of course the famous titanic centre.

Cork County

Cork and the surrounding area is spoilt for choice when it comes to Golf. What better way to get your company’s staff into team building and competitive mode than whacking the small white ball over some of the most stunning scenic golf courses in the world. Top of the list here has got to be the Old head of Kinsale Golf Club. This magnificent course is surrounded by the wild Atlantic Ocean on three sides. Divide up your group into competitive teams and make team building one of the most memorable ever. The Town of Kinsale, only thirty kilometers from Cork city and easily accessible by public transport is regarded as the gourmet capital of Ireland. There are several top hotels to choose from.

Deep sea fishing is another wonderful way of team building. Splitting the group into teams and competing for the heaviest catch of the day. Boats and skilled operators are available in Crosshaven and Cobh.  Fishing gear is provided as are life jackets.

Cork City

In Cork City itself there are several indoor games arenas where team building in the form of competitive sport can be nurtured. What can be more fun and in out of the changeable weather than ten pin bowling. One of the best in the country is in the heart of the city and close to hotels, bars and restaurants on McCurtain Street. McCurtain Street is becoming the New Orleans of Cork and a great spot for team builders to wind down and enjoy the music, food and drink into the early hours as the organizers of the team building group analyse the performances of their charges from earlier in the day.

Outside Cork city is a karting track. Now this must be the daddy of team building.

Split the corporate group into different teams and do a “formula one” competition in these brilliant Go Karts. Points can be totaled and teams can be assessed on speed, ability and leadership. And it’s only a fifteen minute drive has the team building group back in the City.

So, there you have it. 5 reasons why Cork is the best location for team building. Finally, I also threw in few extra reasons why Cork is such a fantastic location for a team building event. Because it’s just that good.

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Places to Go in Cork with your Dog

Anyone who knows me will know that I love animals and in particular my oversized and over energetic puppy Indie. I love her to bits and take her with me everywhere I possibly can. Including the gym. My brother mentioned to me before that if he saw me walking down the street with 10 dogs he really wouldn’t be shocked. Anyone who has a dog will understand the bond. And by the looks of it Cork does too. There is nothing better then getting out about with our four legged friends safe in the knowledge you can pop into a cafe if the heavens open up or just to relax with a coffee in a dog friendly space. So here are just a few places to Go in Cork with your Dog!

Before I begin there are plenty of places that allow dogs in the outdoor areas like the Rising Sons and Coqbull. But for this article I’m just going to focus on places that allow you and your pooch inside.

Bark & Bumble

We have to start with Cork’s first dedicated dog cafe. Located just down from the South Infirmary and across the road from St Johns College. Bark & Bumble is a doggy heaven. They have a doggy treat bakery, coffees, clothes and toys. They also have an enclosed place inside for the dogs to socialize. Oh don’t worry they do have human food there too. If you’re in Cork, make sure to pop in with your pooch.

Myo Cafe

Staying in Cork City and on the other side of the bridges is Myo Cafe on Pope’s Quay. A lovely little cafe not far from the Shandon Bells. They do delicious food, coffee and teas. Dogs are allowed inside but must be kept on a lead. They’re a lovely bunch inside and will be sure to dote of your dog.

Alchemy

We’re still in Cork City folks. This is not just a dog friendly cafe but one for the coffee enthusiasts among us. Eh me. Not only do the fine folks in Alchemy allow you to bring your dog inside they also serve up 3fe coffee. There food is also to die for. Definitely worth checking out.

St Lukes Wine Tavern

Now should you fancy a glass of vino while you happen to be in the company of your four legged best friend. Then take a stroll up to St Lukes Wine Tavern. They have a great selection of wine as well as tapas, sandwiches, teas and coffees.

Nine Market St

If you’re thinking of taking a drive and have the pup with you. Kinsale is the place for you as it has 2 spots on our list of places to Go in Cork with your Dog! The first is Nine Market st that serve fantastic food all day. So after you have walked the dog, taken in all of Kinsale and have worked up a hunger. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner here! Dogs must be kept on the lead but that’s no biggy.

Cosy Cafe

On Sunday we brunch! If you fancy some Sunday brunch or anytime of the week in Kinsale. Pop over to Cosy Cafe. They do a savage breakfast, lunch and brunch all day. As well as some delightful pastries. They also have a dedicated dog bar outside the cafe.

So, there you have it folks. Just a few Places to Go in Cork with your Dog this weekend. If you know of any other places. Please do let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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6 Things to do in Cork this weekend!

I’m not sure about you but every week my better half asks ‘What will we do this weekend?’. Usually, I’ll suggest something that is immediately shot down before coming up a few more ideas that don’t involve sport. I thought to myself that surely I’m not the only one in this situation and that I’d share my 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend!

Jameson Distillery

We often don’t do tourist attractions that are on our own doorstep for some strange reason. Yet travel hundreds of miles to see others. Recently, I went to the magnificent Jameson Distillery in Midleton. You’ll get to enjoy a fantastic tour and learn all about the history of arguably Ireland’s finest whiskey. But you’ll also get a tour of the grounds, see how the whiskey is made. Enjoy a tasting of 3 different whiskeys and a drink in the bar also at the end. Well worth doing if you’re looking to do something this weekend folks! Maybe take the train is my advice!

The Crosshaven Walk

Now it all depends on what you want out of the weekend. But if you fancy enjoying the fresh air and going for stroll. Then I’d highly recommend the Crosshaven Walk. It starts in Carrigaline, and the car park is just about 30 seconds past the Carrigaline GAA club on the left. The walk runs along the water all the way to Crosshaven. It’s a beautiful scenic walk which is suitable for all levels of fitness. Once you get to Crosshaven I do like to treat myself with a pint in Cronins and a bag of chips for the walk back.

Trad Session in Sin é

If you have a bit of an urge for some proper traditional Irish music. Then pop over to Sin é on Coburg Street. It’s right by Patrick’s hill. A cosy little pub, with great pints and most weekends have a fantastic band or musician playing. It’s my place of choice actually for my Christmas Eve pints with the lads.

Try some O’Flynn’s Sausages

If you’re wandering the streets of Cork City and you feel a bit of a hunger come on. Pop along to now a Cork institution on Winthrop Street and try some O’Flynns Sausages. They do a fantastic variety folks and never fails to hit the spot. With the weather becoming a little chillier. It’s exactly what the doctor ordered to warm you up. You can sit outside to if you fancy and watch the hustle and bustle of the city on the weekend!

Blackrock Observatory

You could easily spend the day at The Blackrock Observatory to be honest. The observatory itself is a must for anyone who has an interest in space or stars. There is a lovely walk right beside the observatory should you fancy stretching your legs. And when you’ve worked up a hunger from your walk. They have one of Cork’s finest restaurants for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for something to do this weekend. You can’t go wrong here!

Fota Wildlife Park

Last on our list of 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend is a trip to the Fota Wildlife Park. If you have a love of animals, which I most certainly do, then you will love Fota Wildlife Park. You can see cheetahs, monkeys, giraffes, mercats and a whole host of other animals, reptiles and creepy crawlies. It’s only a short drive from the city and is hours of fun. They have a great cafe there too should you fancy a bite to eat also.

So, there you have it folks. 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend. So, will you be heading to any one of these attractions this weekend? Finally, if you have any suggestions, make sure to send them on to info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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Cork Craft Beer – What’s your favourite?

As I write this article, the weekend is rolling in and I’m starting to work up a thirst. I love nothing more than after a long week at work to sit back on the couch with the dog and crack open a bottle of craft beer. Especially as the weather turns a bit grim on our beautiful county. I preferably go for a Cork craft beer. Not simply because I’m from Cork but also that we are spoiled with some of Ireland’s top craft breweries and they produce amazing beers, ales, stouts and ciders.

So, as I day dream of taking my first sip of my weekend beer. I thought I’d share some of my favourite Cork Craft beers!

Chieftain & Rebel Red – Franciscan Well Brewery

First up is Chieftain from the lads in the Franciscan Well Brewery. This is there answer to the growing popularity for IPA’s. It’s cloudy with a citrus aroma and is 5.5% abv. I love an IPA and this ticks all the boxes for me. It’s full of flavour and still quiet light. Meaning you’ll be back to the bar to other another one or two.

My favourite brew to come out of the Franciscan Well is their Rebel Red. A quiet exceptional Irish Red Ale I think they launched back in 1998 when I was only going into secondary school and didn’t even know what an ale was. It has hints of caramel, biscuit, hops and malt. It isn’t to gassy and so smooth to drink. The guys have it available around the city on tap, to share the love of course. But there is nothing better than popping down to the brewery itself on North Mall heading to Sunday’s well for a pint.

And if you can’t get in. They have them in cans now across the county.

Mi Daza – Rising Sons Brewery

Now, you’ll find me quiet often with a stout in hand folks. Murphy’s in most bars is a go to for me. But if I find myself in the Rising Sons for a match or for after work drinks. Then I get the lads to whack me on a pint of Mi Daza. It’s traditionally brewed to give a big rich roasted flavour. It’s thrice hopped with four malt and has hints of chocolate so I’ve read in the bar. One thing you’re sure to pick up is the taste of ‘more’ off it.

KPA Kinsale Pale Ale – Blacks Brewery

I’m not living far from Kinsale myself so when I pop into the town for a beer with the lads and a good chinwag over the state of our favourite team. I need a drink that’s strong enough but also able to relax. Following sports teams will break your heart.

The KPA Kinsale Pale Ale is jammed packed with citrus and tropical flavours that’s balanced with a malty sweetness. The tropical notes have to be inspired by being so close to the water I reckon. Either way this 5% abv beer is a tasty one lads. It’s clean crisp finish is what makes it a winner for me.

Howling Gale – 8 Degrees Brewing

At the other end of the county the guys in 8 Degrees Brewing have a fantastic IPA called Howling Gale. A great name for an Irish IPA to be fair. It has grapefruit, pine and biscuit notes lads. It’s medium body also means it has a smooth finish. This beer is great on any occasion and pairs really well with any munch you might be having.

Roaring Ruby – West Cork Brewing

Another fine Irish Red Ale makes my list in the form of Roaring Ruby by the guys in West Cork Brewing. It’s a bit darker than your average red ale but it has wonderful flavours. Caramel, toffee and a hint of coffee has me gasping for one at the thought of it now.  If you get your hands on one lads make sure to take the time to enjoy it fully.

Kerry Lane – Cotton Ball

First time I tried Kerry Lane from Cotton Ball I was at a wedding and the bride and groom had a keg of this fine pale ale on tap. And it was an open bar. Well lord save us did I develop a love for this drink. It’s full bodied guys, and has this mix of bitter and sweet notes going on. And the hops come through so well. I love a hoppy beer.

The main thing to know lads is this Cork craft beer is savage and if you ask for a pint of this. You simply not be disappointed.

Medium Dry Cider – Stonewell

I’m not a huge cider drinker. So to get me to have a cider, even on a hot summers day, is a task in itself. However, the Medium Dry Cider from Stonewell is just fantastic. It has a real freshness to it with hints of citrus too. It tastes so good. My advice is not to go too mad on the ice. The coldness masks the flavour.

So, there you have it lads. Just some of my favourite Cork Craft Beer selections. Is there any cork craft beer you should think I should be trying? Let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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A Sweet Treat in Cork City

I think at this stage it’s obvious that I have a certain love for Cork and it’s businesses. And as you’re all very aware I’m partial to the culinary delights of this great city for a work lunch, after work drinks and even a burger. However, one thing I have yet to touch on is where I head for a sweet treat. To go with yet another coffee I’ve purchased. So, here’s where to find a Sweet Treat in Cork City.

Sticky Fingers Cork

I know recently people went complete mental for donuts around Cork, Dublin, Ireland and the world. And that some people are now sick of them. I for one still can’t get enough of them. As I said it is a treat and I love nothing more to enjoy one with a coffee. So, if I’m passing Sticky Fingers on Emmet place I make sure to pop in for one…or two. They have some great hand made donut concoctions and I’ve yet to taste a donut in there I didn’t like. My personal favourite is the Snickers!

I also enjoy eating it outside the Opera House, take a minute or two and watch the people pass by. Before realizing I really should get my ass back to work! Do make sure you pop into the guys!

Cupcake Cottage

Not far from Anglesea Street, actually I may even be on it. Either way you’ll find the delicious Cupcake Cottage. You can’t miss it guys with it being right next to another top food house in Ramen. The team in Cupcake Cottage bake everything in house and they are just soooo good! The Red Velvet is by far my favourite and I’ll let you in on a little secret lads. A box of red velvet cupcakes has the power to get you out of the dog house! So, I say thank you Cupcake Cottage!

Heaven’s Cakes

Last on my list is Heaven’s Cakes in the English Market. Now I know there are tons of incredible traders in there. The butchers, fish mongers and olive hoarders have seen plenty of my business. I do love supporting local when and where I can. It only benefits us all and Cork at the end of the day.

But back to finding a sweet treat. I’ll make a B-Line lads to Heaven’s Cakes which is a traditional french patisserie with a modern twist. If you like the classic deserts then this where you should go. Pick up a few for the team back in the office and all enjoy a good chinwag over a cup of team. Team Building ideas don’t have to be to over complicated.

So there you have it folks. Just a few places to find a Sweet Treat in Cork City as you meander through this great city. Do you have a particular favourite?

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3 Best Burger Places in Cork City

I recently published an article on my 3 top lunch picks for a work lunch in Cork city. As I mentioned in that article I love my food and if I can combine enjoying some of Cork’s best food with a work meeting. I’m rocking! So as I was strolling through the city today coming up to lunch time. My nostrils caught the sent of burgers cooking. It inspired me to gather my 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City!

This article should really have come with a warning not to read on an empty stomach coming up to lunch!

Son of a Bun

Just around the corner from the office here is Son of a Bun. Every lunch time I have the eternal struggle between the ‘Treat yo self‘ side of me and the ‘You brought lunch, it’s healthier and you’re on a diet for a wedding‘ side of me. Any time I go in there I indulge. Simply put, I get a juicy burger off the menu. Usually the S.O.B and make it double. Get fries, mac & cheese and if I’m fragile after the weekend a shake.

After you’ve satisfied your hunger it may be very difficult to have a constructive meeting. But, as Father Stack said in Father Ted. “I had my fun and that’s all that matters”

Bunsen

Located on French Church street in the heart of the city centre is Bunsen. And after you’ve tried one of their burgers it will have a special place in your heart. Trust me on that. It’s the “Simple things in life” they say. Bunsen’s menu is simple but my good god the burgers are divine. They don’t mess about with anything fancy. They just serve up a great burger or cheeseburger, fries and a drink. Also they only have a handful of toppings to choose from.

I suspect the reason for this is to make sure you don’t ruin you’re own burger before eating it. That you truly enjoy the burger for what it is! Once you bite into one. You’ll understand and you will need some sort of miracle to resurrect that work meeting you were planning on having after you ate.

West Cork Burger Company

Now, if you’re not already salivating at the thought of a burger. There is something wrong with you. I’m already planning when I’m off for a burger next. So, its off to Washington Street to the West Cork Burger Company. Anyone who has been, knows just how good a burger it is.

The patties are full of flavour and juicy. The toppings and sauces are next level and the sides are top drawer. There will be a few groans of delight as you bite in. It’s probably at this moment that you’ve completely forgotten you had something work related to discuss after eating. But it’s worth it.

I’m a huge believer that we are spoiled in Cork City with all the fantastic burger places we have. It’s fantastic to see businesses in Cork thriving and if they keep serving up burgers and food like they have. They’ll be thriving for years to come. And I may possibly have to take out a small loan to quiet literally feed my habit!

So guys these are what I think are the 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City! Do you agree? Or should I be adding another few to the list? Let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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After Work Drinks in Cork City

The weekend is nearly here, well that’s what I keep tell myself. And like you I’m slowing counting down the minutes until it’s time to call it a week. One thing I love to do when possible is enjoy a drink after work in Cork City before popping home to relax for the night. Here are just a few of my suggestions for After Work Drinks in Cork City with you colleagues!

Electric

A brilliant after work drinks venue before the rush of the weekend arrives. Electric sits in a fantastic spot along the River Lee. It’s serves great drinks and cocktails. And when the sun is shining the place is a hive of activity as everyone enjoys a few drinks in the sun by the water and on the grass outside.

Sextant

I’ve put the Sextant on my list as I pass it on my way home from work. It’s not smack bang in the city centre but nevertheless it’s a great place to meet for some after work drinks. It’s cosy on a cold evening and open and airy on a warm evening with it’s outdoor space. The pints have a taste of more off them.

Soho

Another top city centre bar for an after work refreshment. Soho is my bar of choice if I’m looking to enjoy a beer and catch a match also. The big screen means wherever you are in the bar you’ll see all the action.

Mutton Lane

If you’re looking for a bar that’s tucked away from the evening rush then Mutton Lane is for you. It’s down a narrow street, of Patrick’s street and pours a fantastic pint. They also have a few craft beers on tap should you fancy changing it up. I do drink more than just Murphy’s.

Rising Sons

Lastly on my list of places for After Work Drinks in Cork City is the Rising Sons on Cornmarket Street. It serves up its own fantastic beer which is brewed in house. Also they’ll have any big match on the screen and have a Foosball table to take on a work colleague. When you’ve worked up an appetite they have a wonderful selection of pizzas too.

So there you have it folks. Just a few of my suggestions for some After Work Drinks in Cork City! Is there any places you enjoy a quiet one after work you’d like to share? Drop us an email on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork

I’m going to say it, we are spoiled in Cork for a venues to have a work lunch in. There is nothing better than having a work lunch in my opinion. But for those who know me, know that I love me food, this won’t come as a great surprise. A work lunch I find is a great way to have to discuss various topics and it allows a meeting/conversation flow more naturally and often times new ideas come out of them. So, here are my 3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork!

Perry Street Cafe

If you’ve not eaten here yet. I want you to get up now and go grab some food in Perry Street. It is simply one of Cork’s culinary hot spots in my opinion and does incredible food daily. The venue is open and airy and makes it a wonderful space for a work lunch.

After you’ve eaten I’d suggest grabbing a coffee and enjoy this relaxing space as you go through the reason you actually decided to have a work lunch. Such is the popularity around lunch time I’d suggest calling ahead and asking to book a table if it’s a work lunch engagement. Just to be safe.

Market Lane

Again another fantastic restaurant for a work lunch. Located at the bottom of Oliver Plunkett street in Cork City you’ll be salivating over what to eat for lunch in Market Lane. You may even forget your reason for even being there. They have such an extensive and varied menu to suit any type of palate.

As a venue for a work lunch, it is perfect. It’s a relaxing restaurant, people aren’t on top of you and you can speak freely with out fear of someone listening in. Maybe the last one is just me.

Cask

Lastly on our lists is Cask on McCurtain Street. Just around the corner from me here in office, I’ve sampled it’s lunch time menu a few times. Each time is better than the last and that’s why its on my 3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork. If I’m having a work lunch this would be my first shout.

I already mentioned the food but again, like the others above, the space is inviting, comfortable but also allows you to do some real work when it comes time to knuckle down. I also love the window seats from a personal point of view. Watching the world go by always helps me think of creative ideas if it’s that type of work lunch.

So, they are my 3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork. Where do you go for your work lunch? Or is there anywhere you’d recommend for my next work lunch.

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5 Adventure Spots for an Off Site Day in Cork

An Off Site Day is always a wonderful way to reinvigorate a team, set new goals for the year ahead or just to reward a any type of team for a job well done. Now I love experiencing that adrenaline rush that comes with an exhilarating team building activity. So, I thought I’d put together 5 Adventure Spots for an Off Site Day in Cork!

Zip-Lining

If you’ve never been Zip-Lining then quiet frankly you’re missing out lads. It will test your nerves, get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping all at the same time. Zipit just outside Cork City in Farran Woods is home to one of Ireland’s best Zip-Lining course, and is brilliant for an Off Site day.

The guys will make sure you’re all kitted out, literally shown the ropes and move you along the different zipline courses. You’ll start small before moving onto bigger and higher courses. I really can’t speak highly enough about Zipit in Farran and the team. They’ll make sure you’re off site day is a huge success.

Karting

Karting is always a fantastic option for an off site day in my opinion. A series of races to will not only fuel peoples competitive side but will have them buzzing from the adrenaline rush afterwards.

Just on the edge of the city, in Marina Commercial park actually, you’ll find the National Kart Centre Cork. It’s a brilliant karting track that will challenge even a seasoned driver. It will be interesting to see how yours gets on. The guys will make sure you get everything and more out of your day spent on the track.

My advice if you’re planning an off site day is to do any work before the Karting. Because, the racing is all your team will be talking about afterwards.

Rib Trip

If adventure and fueling your need for speed is still on your mind for your upcoming off site day. Let me suggestion a Rib Trip. You’ll all hop aboard a high powered rib and get race across the top of the water, using waves as ramps and there’s no avoiding getting a little wet. The guys in Cork Sea Safari know how to really drive one of these boats!

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing this over the summer and I can honestly say you and your team will be buzzing afterwards. It’s a fantastic activity on an off site day for team building or to reward hitting certain targets. Or it can be used to kick off a work night out even.

Bubble Football

Now I know on an off site day you’re trying to get some valuable work done. It could involve brainstorming or simply reviewing what you’ve done for the year and what you all as a group can do better. After you get all the work done early in the day, I suggest you give Bubble Football a go!

You’ll jump inside inflatable balls an attempt to play football and score a few goals. You’ll be bouncing all over the place, hitting co workers all safe in the knowledge you’ll be safe. The guys in Bubbleball Ireland have a few venues around Cork and will make sure you and your team have a brilliant day.

Cable Wakeboarding

Lastly on our list of 5 Adventure Spots for an Off Site Day in Cork is Cable Wakeboarding! Ballyhass lakes is home to Cork’s only Cable Wakeboarding centre and if you’re looking to add a little adventure into your off site day. Then get yourself down there.

The guys are incredible in handling any size team and the instructors will have you standing up on the Wakeboard in now time as it pulls you across the lake. Your heart will be racing, your adrenaline will be pumping and you’ll have a smile from ear to ear.

They also have a huge range of other activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and the leap of faith. Just in case you want to more than just one activity.

So, these are my 5 Adventure Spots for an Off Site Day in Cork. Make sure you check out the guys above and if you have any other questions. Sure just drop me a line on info@bigpotatoes.ie for more details.

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Cork, Coffee and Meetings!

One of the best things about being located in the heart of Cork City is that there is no shortage of fantastic coffee shops and locations for a meeting. I love nothing more than getting out of the office to have a work meeting or enjoy a change of scenery as I make my way through a mountain of emails. I also love how a meeting in a Cork coffee shop always sparks my creative side. As I write, “Cork, Coffee and Meetings”, I’m sat at the window of a coffee shop looking at people passing by and enjoying yet another fantastic brew.

As I mentioned, different locations and a particularly good coffee shop sparks my creative side. So, I thought I’d throw together some of my favourite coffee shops to not only grab a fine brew but to also have a meeting. Who knows they may help to spark you’re creative side too.

The Bookshelf

I pass the Bookshelf on my stroll into the office each morning. Each morning the inviting aroma always tickles the senses. I’m a huge fan of their coffee and I make sure if I grab a cup that I have the time to enjoy it. So, this is one of my go to places for a work meeting over a coffee. I can sit down and relax with my coffee then have a productive meeting in a comfortable setting.

Now, I love the hustle of people chatting, coming and going and all the sounds. But, If I need a little more privacy or a quieter area for a meeting. There is a delightful upstairs area. It has everything you need for a meeting in Cork City over a coffee.

I even have friends that when they’re back from Dublin, work remotely all day in the Bookshelf. Check it out!

Cork Coffee Roasters

Next on my list of great places for a coffee in Cork is the Cork Coffee Roasters on Bridge Street. I’m the envy of a lot of my friends as our office is only around the corner from this great coffee shop. I love popping in their around 11am or when the 3pm slump hits for a little pick me up. It’s also worth noting that if you bring in your reusable coffee cup, you get 50 cent off.

The interior is cool and understated and it’s a relaxing spot to take 10 mins out of a busy day to chill and enjoy a coffee. It’s also a great spot for a brainstorming session in my opinion. And, if the sun is shining they have a fantastic window seat outside to enjoy a coffee in the sun.

Soma Coffee Company

Soma is a really cool coffee shop on Tuckey street in the city. If you don’t know where that is, it’s the street by the fountain and Hillbilly’s. Not long open, but the guys are making big waves in the cork coffee scene. I’ve enjoyed a few coffees and work meetings here and you really can’t go wrong.

Plenty of space to chat, have a meeting, work and the guys always make you feel very welcome. They recently got their own in house coffee roaster that is on show too.

Dukes Coffee

If you take a stroll down Carey’s Lane which is just off the main street in Cork. You’ll find another smashing coffee house. They have tons of different blends, always talk you through them or give you suggestions. And the food they have to go with it is just savage.

It’s a wonderful place for a work meeting, slash coffee, slash lunch, slash to get work done. It can be whatever you want it to be really. But, if you’re looking for a quality cup of coffee. You won’t be disappointed with Dukes.

The Atrium in the Clayton Hotel

Located along the river and right by the Port of Cork the Clayton Hotel and more importantly the Atrium inside is a fantastic spot to grab a coffee, do a bit of work and have a work meeting. They have high tables with plenty of sockets to charge phones and laptops which is worth noting

If you’re planning a more relaxed meeting and chat you’ll find comfy couches and space which allows you to explore your creative side. Sure who can’t be creative with big Golden Balls hanging over head.

So, here was just a few of my favourite Coffee Shops in Cork City for a meeting. Make sure you pop in for a brew sometime and enjoy a work meeting there.

Finally, is there anywhere you’d add to “Cork, Coffee and Meetings”??

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