The style credentials of this boutique townhouse are impressive …
VIBE: A swish, cosmopolitan boutique hotel just minutes away from Killarney National Park with its beautiful lakes, forest trails and mountain landscapes.
NEED TO KNOW: Killarney Royal Townhouse is part of the family-owned Scally Hotel collection which includes Hayfield Manor in Cork, St Helen’s in Dublin and the newly anointed five-star Great Southern, also in Killarney. The collection is known for combining a sense of heritage with genuine hospitality honed over three generations.
DESIGN: Recently renovated (and renamed) the townhouse interiors were inspired by the beauty of its surroundings. My first impressions were of a stylish Kelly Hoppen-meets-The White Company aesthetic. The lobby, decorated in a cream and cappuccino colour palette, is a popular spot to enjoy morning coffee and scones in front of a roaring fire or peruse the interesting collection of coffee table books.
ROOMS: All 32 bedrooms were refurbished under the direction of Tony Ladden Construction and The Interiors Project. Their design philosophy of “less is more” was also inspired by the relaxed elegance of the Cotswolds. Translated to the interiors that means warm neutrals, soft greys and earthy tones layered with tactile fabrics.
My very spacious room had an interesting layout with a four-poster bed – a nod to traditional townhouse style – and bespoke furniture pieces from local craftsmen, while throws from Mucros Weavers and artworks by local artist Declan Mulvany provided further contemporary touches. Other thoughtful details included a mini golf club for practicing some in-room pitching and putting, a nip of whiskey in crystal decanters, interesting reading material and Ground Wellbeing bathroom products. These all combined to make my stay feel luxurious and cosy.
DINING: Fig restaurant offers a relaxed, all-day menu of delicious seasonal dishes, from sandwiches and soups to fresh seafood and indulgent desserts. It has an impressive goal of working towards sourcing 70 per cent of its ingredients from local producers. The vibe here is convivial and unhurried. Breakfast is served in The Pantry, separate from Fig restaurant, which I liked. The mix of buffet with a la carte options was also very generous.
VERDICT: A restorative, elegant retreat. There is no shortage of hotels in Killarney – in fact the choice can be overwhelming – but this was faultless. In addition to being very central – five minutes’ walk from the train station – it was calm and serene. Try its two-night Natural Pause Package which includes a guided walk in Killarney National Park with a local expert, plus optional dining at Fig Restaurant. Guests can use the Health Club at sister property the Great Southern which includes a heated pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
For solo travellers especially there’s a tempting digital detox offer during which guests are given a wellness journal (to encourage reflection) and a disposable camera with complimentary photo printing allowing them to document a slow weekend surrounded by nature. Other wellness touches include herbal tea, kombucha and a Killarney Organic turndown recovery pack.
DON’T: Leave without exploring Macbees boutique, founded by Mary McBride, or having a peep at the photographic exhibition on at Killarney House & Gardens until October 4. For ceramic enthusiasts, Louis Mulcahy Pottery is close by as is Muckross House and Gardens – ideal for some autumnal leaf peeping. DO Use your Ireland’s Blue Book for any stay, overnight rates start from €285. killarneyroyal.ie
