There has never been a better time to plan a trip to Killarney with The Ross having just unveiled a vibrant new layout and look for this popular town centre Boutique Hotel.
Famed for its large arched windows, flooded with natural daylight and enviable views of the vibrant town, this welcoming space has been transformed from a traditional hotel reception into an entirely new concept called Polly’s. It is set to be a hot spot for coffee lovers and those looking for delicious bites and cocktails with a side of town spice! Hotel guests can now check-in at the newly renovated reception area located in the upper level of the hotel.
The name Polly holds significant local meaning, a name steeped in heritage, paying homage to the legacy of Pretty Polly, a tights factory that was once the heartbeat of the community and at one time employing over 1000 locals.
Influenced also, by the regal swans of nearby Ross Castle they have created “Polly” a character of elegance and poise with the body of a woman and the wings of a swan and her vibrant, playful personality showcased throughout the menus.
“Pretty Polly holds a special place in the hearts of the community, and we wanted to pay homage to our fond memories of the factory. Customers would often tell us how a seat by the window in The Ross was the best seat in town, so we really felt the need to expand our offering and extend this valuable space to our patrons. We now have a fun and inclusive environment for all, where guests can sit and linger over breakfast or morning coffee, have casual lunch with family and friends or host a fun gathering in Polly’s Lounge” said Ciara Treacy, Hotel Manager.
The vibe at Polly’s changes from hour to hour. By morning, one can expect a bustling café of world-inspired porridge pots and pastries served with premium coffee blends from West Cork Coffee. As the day progresses, so too does their culinary offering with the use of Mediterranean-inspired flavours. The lunch menu offers a host of vibrant tastes with flavoursome pittas, exciting hummus sharing platters and delicious soup and sourdough combos. Using the freshest local produce and a pinch of creativity the chefs have crafted dishes that are both delicious and mindful of the environment. From vibrant vegetarian creations to sustainably sourced meats and seafood, the menu is designed to cater to every palate, ensuring a dining experience that’s full of flavour and free from waste.
Polly’s bespoke cocktail bar offers a menu that’s as innovative as it is environmentally mindful. The skilled mixologists blend premium local ingredients with depths of mixology experience to create drinks that dazzle the senses. Every cocktail is a piece of art, designed to deliver a memorable experience and all playfully tied back to the origins of the brand with names like “Tights in a twist” and “With love, Polly x”. Polly’s is open for breakfast and lunch right through to late evening drinks 7 days a week.
Design wise, the incomparable Kim Partridge has created an eclectic look using a beautiful blend of rich teal and vibrant colours in a wide variety of textures, kaleidoscope patterns, and luxurious materials. Standout design features include abespoke marble cocktail bar encased by teal concave tiles, custom made Moroccan inspired furnishings, gold trim tables, cerulean blue tabletops, vintage lamps, and an iconic vibrant wallpaper.
“Reflecting on its neighbouring Killarney National Park, Polly’s design draws inspiration from the local flora and fauna in a playful manner. The use of a bold kaleidoscope of colours, pattern and texture creates a vibrancy to the interiors that are whimsical and fun. The design approach reinforces Polly’s sustainability leadership by selecting suppliers which share the same ethos, for example the carpet supplier was chosen specifically for its tree planting programme which helps towards off-setting carbon omissions and selecting fabrics crafted with an element of recycled fibre”, said Kim Partridge.
On the mezzanine level you will find a newly introduced experience Polly’s Lounge, Killarney’s first serviced Private Karaoke booth for up to 25 people. This fun room showcases sophisticated Kim Partridge design, complete with shimmering gold wallpaper, wraparound pink sofas, and a soundproof glass wall. Offering unrivalled experiences, elevated finger food options, unique drinks packages and top-tier service, it is set to top the local charts. Here guests can ‘shuffle’ their way through a catalogue of over 65,000 songs from trending tunes to Broadway belters and karaoke classics. Smartphones can be utilised to line up songs and take selfies that appear on the screen as their friends perform. Overall, a highly entertaining option for those looking to gather a gang for a luxurious singing session. Polly’s Lounge the perfect spot for a lively karaoke experience, private screenings, baby showers and special occasions.
Polly’s is undoubtedly a fun and relaxing place to recount tales of old and to make new memories with friends and family.
For residential booking enquiries, email reservations@theross.ie and for other enquiries email hello@theross.ie or visit www.theross.ie
To keep up to date with the flock at Polly’s follow their socials @pollyskillarney