SOUTHWEST HARBOR, ME (May 2021) — A New England grande dame ideally situated at the mouth of Somes Sound with easy access to Acadia National Park, The Claremont will welcome guests once again in May 2021 following an extensive transformation and under new ownership. One of Mount Desert Island’s most historic hotels, the six-acre shorefront property has provided a classic summer refuge to visitors seeking a quiet coastal respite dating back to 1884. The reimagined hotel will boast a total of 51 accommodations, including 12 cottages, four suites, a secluded three-bedroom waterfront haven and 34 guestrooms, an intimate spa, a heated swimming pool overlooking the sound, four food and beverage venues, an expansive garden, a croquet club and more, inviting new and returning guests for a serene Maine escape.
The Claremont is under the new direction of Kennebunkport hotelier Tim Harrington, Partner and Creative Director of Kennebunkport Resort Collection and owner of Claremont Hospitality LLC, and his business partner Debbie Lennon, Managing Director of Atlantic Holdings. The new owners will embrace the roots of the McCue Family’s legacy, who took ownership of the property in 1968, while reinvigorating this Southwest Harbor landmark in a modern, yet classic way. Each aspect of this 137-year-old property, including the technology, on-site amenities and food and beverage outlets will be adapted to fit the needs of today’s traveler.
“The Claremont is one of the most iconic hotels in our special pocket of the world,” says Tim Harrington, owner of Claremont Hospitality LLC. “While continuing to pay tribute to the longstanding history and charm that those who have visited the property for generations know and love, we look forward to introducing upgraded amenities and exceptional experiences to attract a new set of visitors to this beloved destination.”
ACCOMMODATIONS
The property will feature 34 guest rooms, ranging from classic to premiere, as well as four hotel suites, a secluded three-bedroom waterfront haven called the Ocean House, and 12 one or two-bedroom cottages thoughtfully spread out along the six-acre property offering privacy and spectacular views. The guest rooms offer luxury bedding and fine Frette linens, paired with Matouk Terry Cloth Bath Towels to provide the perfect comfort. Whether guests are seeking a luxurious room that is close to everything, a romantic suite with total privacy, or a spacious cottage for families with all the comforts of home, travelers can find it at The Claremont.
Creative Director, Krista Stokes teamed up with Keeler & Co. Interior Design to debut a fresh design concept. The new look of the hotel incorporates a rich, yet sophisticated design palette with shades of blue, green, yellow and pops of cranberry that echo the nature that exists on the property and the island beyond.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
The hotel will offer guests four distinct food and beverage options, sure to satisfy every craving:
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Little Fern: The heart and soul of The Claremont, Little Fern is not just a restaurant, but a gathering place. Offering a celebration of Maine cuisine with an eclectic mix of Down East essentials and imaginative creations, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner alongside a soaring fireplace, mirrored bar, elegant chandeliers and majestic bank of windows that brings the beauty of Somes Sound to the table. Vegan and gluten free choices will be available at every meal.
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Harry’s Bar: Offering a curated list of classic cocktails, Harry’s Bar is located just around the corner from reception and pays tribute to Southwest Harbor’s maritime past. The rich, natural wood and antique nautical accent pieces throughout allow travelers to feel as if they’re a guest in the captain’s home. Whether in the mood for a pre-dinner cocktail, a post-dinner nightcap or a mid-day libation, a visit to Harry’s is a must.
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Batson Fish Camp: Perched on a private dock overlooking Somes Sound, Batson Fish Camp will delight guests with a seafood-centric menu featuring oysters, fish and chips, and The Claremont’s “soon to be famous” lobster roll. Boasting all-natural dark-wood finishes, vintage fishing memorabilia and water views from each seat, the easy-going aesthetics of Batson hearken back to a nostalgic fishing camp in Maine. This is the third Batson River location with additional properties located in Kennebunk and Portland, Maine.
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Buttercup Bakery: Guests seeking a midday treat can look no further than Buttercup Bakery. Serving up The Claremont’s signature “get them before they’re gone” doughnuts along with ice cream, milkshakes, cupcakes and cookies for travelers of all ages, visitors can stop by Buttercup’s to experience the old-fashioned candy shop nostalgia amidst the checkerboard floors, tin roof and various pops of color.
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMING
Guests and local visitors will be able to partake in an array of on-site programming and activities at The Claremont. The hotel will offer bespoke experiences including boat cruises, fishing, cruiser bikes, golf cart rentals and nature hikes, as well as stay enhancements such as paint sets, binoculars, puzzles, astronomy kits and more. The hotel’s croquet court will be restored to welcome hotel guests and local competitors alike.
The hotel can arrange for guests to go hiking or mountain biking in nearby Acadia National Park, one of the east coast’s most popular destinations. There will also be options for golfing, along with an array of fresh and salt-water activities including swimming, kayaking, canoeing and sailing.
The Claremont’s on-site garden and farm will serve as a source for fresh produce and stunning florals to complement the guest experience. Private garden dining will be available for celebrations and gatherings of up to eight guests. An ideal location for an afternoon stroll or a space to spark creativity and inspiration, travelers can interact with the hotel’s Artist In Residence who will conduct classes and workshops in the garden throughout the summer.
Guests will also find restorative experiences at the hotel’s intimate on-site spa located in the Main Hotel building. Featuring four treatment rooms, including one couple’s room boasting a fireplace and soaking tub, the spa will offer a variety of therapeutic and invigorating treatments performed by skilled and experienced estheticians, ranging from from reflexology sessions to soothing body treatments.
LOCATION
Located just 20 minutes from downtown Bar Harbor, The Claremont is situated on historic Mount Desert Island, which continues to be one of the most treasured destinations in the country to this day. Home to numerous quaint fishing villages and the famous Rockefeller carriage trails, the location is also a major gateway into Acadia National Park. Mount Desert Island is a celebrated vacation destination possessing a rich history and culture unlike any other. The destination draws a wide array of visitors to the area each year through its robust shopping, dining and nightlife offerings. The Claremont is located 50 miles from Bangor International Airport and the hotel can provide roundtrip transportation for guests.
The hotel is currently accepting bookings for stays beginning May 27, 2021. For additional information, please visit www.theclaremonthotel.com or call 800-244-5036.
