As a bit of an introduction.... our names are Pamela and John Buchholz (Pam and JB).
I'm originally from a small beach town in Scotland called Ayr and have spent the past 25 years as a cardiac physiologist, operational leader, and coach (Restless Filly Coaching), in healthcare and clinical research. JB is originally from a tiny farming town in Nebraska called Ayr - Yes, we were both born in the town of Ayr, although in different continents, 5000 miles apart :o) JB's career has also been in healthcare and clinical research operational leadership, spanning over 30 years.
Over the years, we have both traveled extensively all over the world with our careers and on vacation, staying in all types of overnight accommodation, from bare, dusty hostels in Bulgaria to $1000+/night lavish suites in Dubai. and everything in between. During those stays we developed a keen sense of what our "ideal" overnight accommodation was - the size of the establishment, essentials required in guest rooms, furnishings, comfort, services offered, ambience and the little added extras that we enjoyed. Occasionally we would talk about opening our own inn and providing a unique, comfortable, and cozy environment for guests to stay and experience, but it was more of a daydream than anything else!
That was until, one rather chilly, dark January evening, I was looking at some real estate websites, checking out beach properties and how we could possibly relocate to the beach (JB should never leave me alone with my laptop when I have time to "just look", it usually leads to mischief or an adventure!), when I came across "The Seaside Inn" - An historic inn built in 1928, the first hotel to be built on Hatteras Island on the Outer Banks.....and that was the start of our new adventure.
Taking a rather run-down hotel with holes in the roof that leaked like a sieve every time we had heavy rains, and to renovate and restore it back to its former beauty.
And so, the repairs and renovations began...
We've worked with all local contractors and they have been absolutely fantastic...
JB and I could not have wished for more talented, hard-working or friendly people, they have been the best!!!!
Huge thanks to Sound Construction and their Roofing Team, Matthew Stowe Painting Company, Randy's Appliance Service, Island Screens OBX and many more.
With a new roof and many much-needed repairs, we are now in the process of completing our guest rooms, each unique in their style and character, and containing some added extras to make your stay more convenient, comfortable and cozy. The Inn is a work in progress and a labor of love for us, one that we hope we can continue to work and improve on for many years to come, like the incredible environment here on the island – ever evolving….becoming even more unique and beautiful.
Back in 1928, the Inn was called “The Atlantic View Hotel”, and we can tell by old photos, that it indeed had clear line of sight to the ocean. Over the years the maritime bushes and foliage behind and to the side of the inn have grown tall, and some beach-houses have been built between the Inn and the beach, obscuring the view. This was probably why, when the Inn was raised and renovated in 2006, it was renamed “The Seaside Inn”.
As soon as we saw the Inn, it became so apparent to us, that if we were restoring it to its former glory, we should also restore its original name. Cognizant that you no longer have a clear view of the ocean, we decided to name it simply “The Atlantic Inn”, and it seems to fit our beautiful vacation retreat perfectly.
Now, you may be thinking “Isn't Hatteras a long drive for me?” It's actually only an additional 60 minutes from arriving on the Outer Banks. The drive down NC 12 is absolutely incredible and truly unique, passing over the awesome Oregon Inlet Bridge, with its phenomenal views over the sand, sea and sound, through the towns of Rodanthe, Salvo and Waves, to stretches of road that showcase the unique ecological topography of our area – with the ocean on one side of the road and the Pamlico Sound on the other side…..an awe inspiring drive and the perfect way to kick off your vacation or retreat!
Whilst The Atlantic Inn may only be an hour south of the commercial tourism of Nags head and Kittyhawk, Hatteras Village is a world away…..to an unspoilt haven where time appears to stand still whilst you relax, chillout and have fun.
JB And I have found the perfect place, in this historic inn, Hatteras and the locals that live here - to realize our dream of creating a wonderfully unique and welcoming retreat for people to visit.
Please join me on our blog as we navigate through the trials and tribulations, fun and excitement of restoring and running "The Atlantic Inn" and discovering all the delights that Hatteras and the Outer Banks have to offer. New photos every day 😊
Take Care,
Pam