Friday is finally here and we hope everybody is staying safe in these terrible storms. Stay safe and sound and let’s help each other through these times. I know we always encourage people to explore local spots and places but I think it is even more important at the moment to support local businesses and adventure spots who have been hard hit by the storms. It is great to see communities coming together to restore their gems.

 

You have all probably heard all about our new section of the site which allows you to upload your own hidden gems. We have a competition coming up very soon for any Gareth Brookes fans. All the details will be announced shortly but a little tip is to start thinking of your gems, the places that as locals you return to again and again.

 

Now, it’s Friday so it’s time for some weekend celebrations! There’s lots going on this weekend! Afternoon tea, cycle trails, drive in cinemas, Horse trails, walks, farms, ski adventures and much more to do this weekend. Some are weather permitting but we have tried to come up with somethings to do in the awful weather also.

Top QT weekend tips/things to do this weekend:

1. We know everybody likes to do something at the weekend but with the storm coming, it may be safer to stay at home with the kids but why not make it fun. Build a fort with fairy lights, watch movies, make cupcakes, try some arts & crafts, tell stories, make jewellery and just enjoy quality time together. Sometimes it’s the little things that capture the minds of our little QTs.
2. What are you weekend plans? TV night, pub, walks, cinema…why not try something a little different. Check out the Drive in Cinema in Carrigtwohill called ‘Movie Junction’. Pick a movie of your choice and bring a bunch of friends to the drive in cinema.  Try something different from your typical cinema trip. They have covers for your car so no need to worry about the weather. QT TIP: Throw in the pillows and blankets(even teddy for our little QTs!) and some yummy treats to enjoy while your there.
3. Why not go for some afternoon tea? It is wet, windy and misserible so why not treat yourself to a spot of tea and relaxation? Our favourites are Mary Anne’s Tearooms in Tralee and Fota Resort and Hotel in Cork. Go on…Treat yourself!
4. Enjoy the outdoors with your kids!  We love Open Farms, especially Grenagh Open Farm in Cork. This Irish farm feels exactly the way a farm should be with only Irish animals, tractors and much more. Grenagh Open Farm has a play area so even if it is raining, why not bring the kids to enjoy the play area, while you have a cuppa in the café.
5. We know it is getting cold AND WET but wrap up warm and why not test out some of the amazing walks that Ireland has to offer. We know some of the coastal walks might be out of the question this weekend with the storm but their are some lovely ones all around Ireland. Take Ballyhoura in Limerick or even the Blarney walk in Cork. A great way to spend an hour if the weather dries up(hopefully we will get an hour of sunshine or even dry weather!)
6. With this weather, it’s always best to get out of the house. So why not go out for dinner as a family. Have a look at some of our top picks for food on our delicious foods section here.
7. WEATHER PERMITTING: The Glen Resource & Sports Centre is a true hidden gem in the heart of Cork. Zorbing, Zip wire, high ropes, soccer, leap of faith, team games and much more. We couldn’t believe that something like this existed just on our doorstep. We launched out video for The Glen this week so check it out here and see what you can expect before you visit. A little birdie has even told us, they are getting in a ski track for all our budding explorers… we cannot wait to check this out.
8. WEATHER PERMITTING: Why not get out in the fresh air(and try to keep some of those New Year’s resolutions). Go on a bike trail in Ballyhoura in Limerick with Trailriders(hopefully the weather will allow this). Check out our recent video that we just launched. Now you see and feel the adventure before you go! Enjoy!
9. WEATHER PERMITTING: Ballyhoura Horse Trails in Kilfinane, Limerick has lots of treks this weekend. Why not go on a trail with them and enjoy the countryside(sorry this one is weather permitting too). Check out our video here and see what beautiful scenery you can expect on the trek.
10. Now if this weather is getting you down, we want to get you to take a look at a blog uploaded recently by Sail Aweigh on their adventures in Croatia sailing. Now this is a gem that should be on your bucket list. It’s never too early to start planning your summer adventures. Check out the blog here.

Have a wonderful weekend full of adventure and smiles.

HAPPY FRIDAY!

(P.S We might need wellies like this during the weekend!!)