#United States #Kennebunk #Maine #DoveHill #White Barn Inn

DoveHill's Acquisition of White Barn Inn

In a significant move for the hospitality industry, DoveHill, a vertically integrated real estate investment firm, has announced the acquisition of the iconic White Barn Inn located in Kennebunk, Maine. This legendary establishment, cherished for its timeless elegance and outstanding culinary offerings, has been a hallmark of New England hospitality since the 1970s. The White Barn Inn has consistently earned prestigious accolades, including the Forbes Five-Star recognition and the coveted AAA Five Diamond Award, especially for its acclaimed fine dining restaurant.

With a reputation for transforming historic barns into exquisite dining destinations, the White Barn Inn Restaurant has stood out as a beacon of New England gastronomy. It has gained widespread acclaim in major travel publications, appearing in Travel + Leisure's World's Best lists and being lauded by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the premier places for lodging and dining worldwide.

The property extends beyond its celebrated restaurant to include an array of charming guest cottages, a luxurious spa, and a serene pool, providing a tranquil coastal escape for its visitors. Furthermore, it has introduced an innovative Cora Houseboat, offering guests a unique way to experience the picturesque Maine coast from the water. With this acquisition, DoveHill aims to build upon the rich heritage of the White Barn Inn and enhance its luxury offerings while remaining true to the authentic character that has made the Inn so beloved.

A Strategic Investment in Hospitality

This acquisition is regarded as a pivotal moment in DoveHill’s strategic approach to hospitality investments. According to Jake Wurzak, Founder and CEO of DoveHill, “White Barn Inn represents a turning point in our hospitality strategy. We are focusing on uniquely independent hotels and inns situated in markets that are challenging to enter.” He emphasized that the property embodies the key qualities they seek: iconic status, exceptional character, and a longstanding legacy of excellence.

Wurzak also highlighted that their goal is to preserve the quintessential Maine experience while implementing targeted enhancements across the property. Charles Paloux, Chief Investment Officer, remarked that the acquisition aligns with their vision for the next generation of experiential and value-driven hospitality investments. The White Barn Inn stands as a model for the irreplaceable hotel assets that DoveHill is eager to invest in.

Continuing with its rich heritage, Auberge Resorts Collection will manage the White Barn Inn, leveraging its expertise in luxury and experiential hospitality to ensure a blend of modern amenities while preserving the essence of the property. Auberge's enthusiasm for this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to curating exceptional guest experiences.

Legacy and Future Promise

The White Barn Inn has been a revered local landmark for over 150 years, embodying warm New England hospitality along with rustic charm and meticulous attention to detail. Just a short drive from Boston, the property features 28 guest rooms, four waterfront cottages, and a distinctive houseboat that offers scenic coastal views and access to White Barn Marina. It is equipped with an outdoor infinity pool, an award-winning spa, two fine dining establishments, and proximity to the arts and shopping of nearby Kennebunkport. Guests can indulge in a range of activities from biking and visiting local apple orchards to enjoying traditional Maine lobster bakes.

In recent years, the White Barn Inn has undergone a complete property redesign that modernizes guest rooms and public spaces while respecting the Inn’s storied past. This redesign has been externally validated by industry accolades, further establishing its reputation as one of the leading destinations in hospitality.

DoveHill's venture represents an exciting new chapter for the White Barn Inn, with high expectations set for its evolution into a landmark that continues to set standards in excellence within the hospitality sector for years to come.