Pemi Cabins, nestled along the picturesque Pemigewasset River in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, has entered a new chapter following its acquisition by two couples: Christophe and Lien, and Andrew and Caroline.
This transfer of ownership marks a significant milestone for the property, which has been a cherished retreat since its inception in the early 1940s.
Recently, this historic property underwent a renovation of several cabins and the addition of new outdoor amenities (an outdoor kitchen, a pizza oven, a lounge facing the river, and a shuffleboard court) under new ownership, blending tradition with modern enhancements.
Originally established as a getaway for travelers, Pemi Cabins built its reputation on rustic charm and an idyllic riverside location.
After nearly 20 years of stewardship, the previous owners, Rick and Kim, retired, leaving the new team to carry forward a tradition steeped in natural beauty and guest satisfaction.
For the new owners, the property’s long-standing appeal, including its proximity to hiking trails, lakes, ski resorts, and other attractions, made it an ideal investment.
Modern Renovations Meet Historical Preservation
The acquisition process was not just about financial opportunity but also personal connection. “We knew about [Pemi Cabins] from different vacations we had in New Hampshire. It’s really renowned in the area; it has a very good reputation,” Christopher said in an exclusive interview with Modern Campground.
The group aimed to consolidate their prior experience with short-term rental properties into a singular focus, leveraging Pemi Cabins’ historical charm and prime location.
One of the property’s standout features is its natural setting, with many cabins offering screened-in porches overlooking the Pemigewasset River. One of the owners noted, “You’re in the cabins, you have access to a private porch, and you just see below yourself the river.”
The pet-friendly accommodations and proximity to attractions such as hiking trails and winter ski resorts further enhance the property’s appeal, drawing a diverse array of visitors year-round.
“We have guests who have been coming to the cabin since they were kids. So, there is truly a long-standing tradition,” Christophe highlighted.
The new owners immediately began renovations to modernize and enhance guest comfort without compromising the rustic aesthetic. The main house, a building once used by the previous owners, was reconfigured into two separate units, now known as “the Kancamagus” and “the Mount Washington.” These units are intended for larger audiences, giving families the ability to stay at Pemi Cabins.
Additionally, the existing motel units “Echo Lake” and “Cascade Falls” were updated to reflect a retro design inspired by the mid-20th century.
Outdoor spaces have also undergone a transformation.
The addition of a pizza oven, an outdoor kitchen, and a lounge with river views aims to create communal areas that encourage relaxation and social interaction. Improved landscaping and the installation of a shuffleboard court further enhance the property’s recreational offerings.
According to one of the owners, many long-time guests, who had been visiting for years, now returned with families and found a single cabin insufficient for their needs. To accommodate these guests, the team aimed to create larger spaces that could better suit their requirements.
These efforts of cabin renovation reflect findings highlighted in a Modern Campground report of a series titled “Boosting Camper Stays: Key Strategies to Revive Campground Reservations.” The report emphasized the importance of enhanced amenities, such as comfortable cabins with reliable power, quality camping equipment, and convenient cooking areas.
These improvements make campgrounds more appealing to guests, encouraging longer stays and attracting a diverse array of travelers, including families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Renovating a property with such historical significance also came with challenges.
“We spent at least two, three months just thinking about how to redesign [the main house and cabins] so that it doesn’t break too much with the overall ambiance of Pemi Cabins,” Christophe explained. This careful approach ensured that updates complemented the cabins’ existing character, preserving the nostalgia that keeps guests returning year after year.
Christopher noted that many guests are drawn to Pemi Cabins for its rustic style, which evokes nostalgic memories from the mid-20th century. With this in mind, they carefully worked to determine the right design for the main house and models, aiming to preserve the original ambiance while incorporating retro elements reminiscent of the 1940s to 1960s.
Sustainability and Future Goals
The team also placed emphasis on sustainable practices. Recent research by Modern Campground indicates that 52% of campground guests prioritize sustainable practices when choosing where to stay, highlighting a growing demand for eco-friendly accommodations.
This aligns with the sustainability efforts at Pemi Cabins, where the owners have focused on green initiatives, such as landscaping improvements, adding trees, and maintaining the cabins’ traditional wood construction, to minimize environmental impact.
“We are very conscious about the fact that it does not pollute the area; it just doesn’t impact the nature itself,” he added. The wood-built cabins further align with eco-conscious guest expectations.
The renovations have already shown measurable success, with occupancy rates increasing by 10% since the acquisition. This growth reflects both the physical improvements and the preservation of the cabins’ distinctive charm, attracting a mix of returning visitors and new guests.
“We keep improving this number,” the owners noted
Looking to the future, the owners plan to continue enhancing guest comfort while maintaining the rustic appeal that defines Pemi Cabins. Priorities include exploring ways to improve individual cabins, adding more trees, and potentially introducing additional winter-friendly amenities.
The owners expressed their commitment to their current project, stating, “For now, our focus is continuing to give a great experience to our guests.”
While expansion beyond Pemi Cabins may be a consideration in the distant future, the owners remain dedicated to the local area. The blend of old and new ensures Pemi Cabins also continues to resonate with guests while adapting to demands, preserving its legacy as a cherished retreat for years to come.
For more information about Pemi Cabins, visit their website here.
Featured image by Pemi Cabins via pemicabins.com
