Each year, I take my Million Dollar Sprint clients on a retreat, so I’m always on the lookout for interesting places to go. I’ve just returned from a scouting trip to Cork, Ireland, and I wanted to share my findings. If you’re planning a retreat of your own, you might find some inspiration here. And if you like the sound of this, let me know in the comments! Feel free to add other suggestions for Cork or anywhere else, I’d love to hear them all.
Arrival and Day Zero: Setting the Scene at The Maryborough Hotel
Our retreat kicks off at the Maryborough Hotel, a venue we highly recommend for its fantastic facilities and serene setting. Nestled in a lush landscape just a short drive from Cork City center, the Maryborough Hotel offers everything you need to help your client ease into the retreat. The hotel also boasts top-notch conference facilities, making it easy to handle any pre-adventure meetings or presentations.
Day One: Stepping Back in Time at Cork City Gaol (jail)
Our first full day begins with a touch of history and a lot of inspiration at Cork City Gaol. This 19th-century prison offers an atmospheric setting that’s hard to beat. From the moment you see its castle-like facade, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into another era.
Cork City Gaol is an extraordinary venue, and we’re particularly excited about the potential of its West Wing. Imagine hosting your morning conference session in a large, drum gallery surrounded by cells, each one a potential breakout room. The combination of the Gaol’s dramatic architecture and the echoes of history create an inspiring environment for brainstorming and team-building.
For lunch, you have two equally spectacular options: a formal table service in the West Wing or a casual BBQ on the entrance lawn. Either choice will provide your team with an unforgettable dining experience. After all, how often do you get to have lunch in a centuries-old jail?
A bit of history: the Cork City Gaol was operational from 1824 until 1923 and was known for its grand design, which more closely resembled a castle than a prison. It housed both male and female prisoners, and its unique architecture includes a central drum gallery with a long, double-sided cell wing that spans three levels. Today, it stands as a fascinating reminder of Ireland’s past, offering visitors a chance to explore its well-preserved cells and hear stories of those who were once imprisoned there.
Afternoon and Evening: Exploring the English Market and Mutton Lane Inn
After the morning’s intense session at the Gaol, the afternoon provides a lighter, more culinary-focused experience at the English Market. Located in the heart of Cork City, the English Market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a vast array of local produce, artisanal products, and gourmet treats.
Established in 1788, the English Market has long been a hub of Cork’s food scene. It has survived wars, fires, and economic downturns, emerging as a symbol of the city’s resilience and love for good food. Walking through its bustling stalls, you can sample everything from traditional Irish cheeses to fresh seafood. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some local delicacies or even arrange a private tasting session for your team.
As the day winds down, a visit to The Mutton Lane Inn is a must. This hidden gem, located just a short stroll from the English Market, is one of Cork’s oldest and most atmospheric pubs. Lit entirely by candlelight, Mutton Lane Inn exudes a cosy charm that’s hard to resist. It’s an ideal venue for a relaxed evening with traditional Irish music, offering an intimate setting that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day. With its warm ambiance and rich history, Mutton Lane could even be booked for a private event, giving your team a truly exclusive experience.
Day Two: The Magic of Blarney Castle and Gardens
No trip to Cork is complete without a visit to the legendary Blarney Castle. On the second day of the retreat, we headed to this iconic site, famous worldwide for the Blarney Stone. Kissing the Blarney Stone is said to bestow the gift of eloquence, but be warned, it’s not for the faint-hearted! The stone is located high up in the battlements, and you’ll need to lean back (with quite a bit of trust) to reach it. But the reward is worth the effort, and it’s a fun, unique experience that adds a touch of magic to the retreat.
After the thrill of the Blarney Stone, take some time to explore the stunning gardens surrounding the castle. The Fern Garden, Druid Circle, Poison Garden, and Fairy Meadow offer a peaceful retreat from the world, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the retreat’s events. Walking through these enchanted gardens, you’ll find yourself charmed by their beauty and tranquillity, a perfect way to end your stay in Cork.
Conclusion: A Retreat to Remember
As the retreat comes to a close, and you walk back through the fairy-tale landscapes of Blarney Castle, it’s clear that Cork offers a business retreat experience like no other. From the historic and awe-inspiring Cork City Gaol to the culinary delights of the English Market and the magical allure of Blarney Castle, every moment is infused with a sense of adventure and discovery.
Cork isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. And as your team heads back home, they’ll do so with a sense of accomplishment, rejuvenation, and perhaps a touch of that famous Irish luck. If this sounds like the perfect retreat spot for your team, let me know in the comments! And if you have other suggestions or experiences from Cork, I’d love to hear those too.