DINE's Timeline

All this talk from Facebook about the new Timeline format has required Distinctive Inns of New England to go back in time and think about how the organization was conceived and evolved over the past 18 years.  It’s amazing to think that the organization is 17 years old this year!  Just as technology has changed, so too has DINE’s mission.  Distinctive Inns of New England still exists to create a refuge and one-stop-place to find premier country inn accommodations, yet it’s evolved into a group of distinctive New England inns providing the perfect choices for those who need assurance that their getaways will offer quality accommodations, culinary adventure and haute hospitality sharing insights via social networks and even in “the cloud”.

DINE found its humble beginnings during a 1994 meeting of innkeepers including Rabbit Hill Inn, Manor on Golden Pond, and Inn at Thorn Hill.   DINE was originally formed to create a fly-drive tour for the independent European (and west coast) traveler.  The participating inns were selected to create a loop through the six New England states thus creating a unique travel itinerary filled with luxury accommodations within an easy half-day drive from one another.  Perfect for the European and distant-market traveler.  Actually, it still is!

Distinctive Inns of New England officially formed in early 1995 when nine other member inns agreed to create the organization.  Twelve inns were initially involved.  Eight of the current nine inns are still members (as Gateways Inn & Restaurant was added much later).  For years DINE’s mission included outreach to distant markets, however the group soon learned that their best marketing opportunities were located right in their own neighborhood.  This lead to the development of loyalty programs such as the DINE INNsiders Club offering rewards for staying with member inns.

While many of the owners who attended the original meeting have sold their inns and moved on, there are a few founders who still remain.  Jim & Ibby Cooper at the Inn at Thorn Hill , Karl & Jane Sabo at the Deerfield Inn, and Phil & Judy Hueber co-owners of the Chesterfield Inn are still on board offering leadership and direction to DINE’s activities.  And while Brian and Leslie Mulcahy didn’t own the Rabbit Hill Inn at the time, they were Assistant Innkeepers there and very much involved in the formation of the association.

Today, DINE still exists as an inn-consoritum providing travelers with top quality, inspected New England inns all under one umbrella.  Their outreach has gone beyond European tour operators to include brochures, blogs, newsletters and social networking, plus a tried and true loyalty program and a wide variety of packages.  Yet, the fact remains that all members still remain within an easy few hours drive of one another.  Why not create your own itinerary and plan a DINE trip this summer or fall?  Take advantage of the INNsider’s program, stay at all nine and save $200 on your whirlwind swing!