The Inn
The historic Pilgrim’s Inn is open from May to October. It is a great place to spend a few quiet days, away from the bustle of bigger towns. Guests embrace the inn’s motto of Relax. Explore. Restore from the moment they arrive. Built in 1793 as a private home, it became Pilgrim’s Inn in the late 1970’s. It’s off the beaten path, but well worth the trip, and the location is a part of the attraction of this beautiful inn. Water views from each room, park-like grounds that include specimen trees and fruit trees, delicious breakfasts and centuries-old house charm make it a favorite for guests. Pets are allowed in the cottages, but not in the main inn. Wi-Fi throughout the buildings. Fresh air and open space are abundant!
The Rooms
Pilgrim’s Inn has 12 guest rooms in the main building, plus 3 cottages and all rooms offer water views. Each room and cottage is distinctly different, part of the charm of the inn’s main house with rooms offering a backyard and pond view, or a harbor view. Some of the guest rooms showcase post and beam architecture, original pumpkin pine floors, fireplaces (non-working), and antique furniture. The color schemes are updated and streamlined décor creates fresh, comfortable spaces with modern amenities amidst the building’s historic features. Gilchrist & Soames Bee Kind bath amenities are featured at the inn, along with lux bath robes, and thick towels. The fresh, clean beds are made with luxurious Sferra linens and duvet covers. It’s a treat to sleep at Pilgrim’s Inn! The housekeepers take pride in their work, and the inn is known for its cleanliness.
The Breakfast
Pilgrim’s Inn offers the best breakfast on the island, according to guests. The Dining Room is in the inn’s rustic barn, with amazing views. On chilly days the stove warms the space, on warm days, the barn doors are open to let in the sun and breeze. Guests are seated at individual tables and start out with fresh-ground Carrabassett Coffee or tea to start the day. The multi-course breakfast starts with cold offerings such as fruit, house-made granola, pastries, juices, and yogurt. A hot entrée is served each day alternating between sweet and savory. Favorite breakfast entrees include apple and cheddar omelets with Applewood smoked bacon, and Maine blueberry buttermilk pancakes with sausage. Breakfast is served from 8:00-9:30 AM daily and is included in the room rate. Coffee and tea are available starting at 7:00 AM.
The Innkeepers
Al and Lindsay Schmurr moved to Maine from the Midwest to follow their dreams of owning an inn on the East Coast. They have owned and operated resorts for Missouri State Parks for the past 13 years and love to travel the globe in the off seasons.
Before they met, Al was in the Army, following in his father’s footsteps as retired Air Force. Growing up in a military family, Al has moved and lived all over the world. This is where he acquired his love of travel and exploring new, exciting destinations. Lindsay, originally from the Husker state where the two met, was in school for Hospitality Management when the two purchased their first resort in Missouri. Over the years, they have gained knowledge from the experiences of running cabins, motels, restaurants, and marinas. Also, bringing a taste of what they have learned and loved from their travels abroad. They hope to use that knowledge as they begin their new journey as Innkeepers in Downeast Maine. Together with their two small children, they plan to grow roots and find their forever home at the beautiful Pilgrim’s Inn on Deer Isle that they purchased in early 2022
The Grounds
Spread over nearly two acres, the Inn sits on more than 500 feet of waterfront frontage on Mill Pond, in the backyard. The inn’s grounds, unique to island lodging, offer plenty of space to unwind quietly, watch birds, catch up on reading and refresh the soul. Many guests remark how wonderful it is to purchase a glass of wine from the bar and head outside to an Adirondack chair to take in the view. Sit for a while and you might spy an eagle. The grounds sport mowed lawn as well as areas of tall grasses and wildflowers. There are groomed paths to wander. The property has specimen trees, and remnants of old orchard trees. The inn’s kitchen garden changes a bit each season, with herbs, flowers, berries and vegetables, all utilized at the inn. The 50 acre Mill Pond is home to many types of ducks and wildlife. Or relax in the LL Bean hammock tucked between tall evergreens by the water’s edge. Artists enjoy the micro and the macro aspect of the inn’s grounds as inspiration for their work.
The Common Rooms
There is plenty of space to sprawl in the Inn, indoors and out. When you enter the inn, guests immediately spot the Library and Game Room. A variety of seating allows guests to relax, catch up on work, and read. There are plenty of board games, a television, and a comfortable couch in the Game Room too. The cozy bar, and two spacious lounges are on the lower level of the inn. Guests are welcome to purchase drinks and house-made ice cream at the bar. Maine beer, wine by the bottle or glass, and cocktails are available here. There is an Information Corner with brochures and guides from local galleries, sites, boat tours, etc. Guests are welcome to hang out in the lounges. They have plush loveseats, chairs, and chess sets. The spacious back deck affords beautiful views of the grounds and pond, space that sets Pilgrim’s Inn apart from other island lodging.