Montauk Pioneer - August 29, 2008 -

In 1926, W.J. & Maude Gurney made their way to Long Island in search of a new dream, a hotel of their own. As former managers for Carl Fisher at one of his hotels in Miami Beach, the Gurney's were experienced in the nuances of hotel life. They christened it Gurney's Inn and over the years their little establishment thrived along the shores of beautiful Montauk. Maude, a Christian Scientist, did not tolerate the use of alcoholic substances, refusing to serve them at Gurney's Inn. In 1955, Nick Monte, a restaurateur from Brooklyn, found himself dining at Gurney's with a friend. He was so affronted by his inability to enjoy a glass of wine with his meal; he flat out offered to buy the place from Maude. At the time she refused his offer but several months later decided to take him up on the proposal. For the sum of $200,000, Gurney's Inn changed hands and many would say destinies.

Monte had big dreams for this quaint cottage style inn and over the years his vision became reality. He enlarged the restaurant, began serving liquor, added rooms and cottages, expanded the kitchen, and eventually added the Conference Center and Skipper's Dining Room. In 1979 Monte's greatest achievement, his European style spa, was opened. A Thalasso spa, the only one in the United States, Monte traveled the world in his quest to bring visitors a unique spa experience. With the help of Baroness Hildegard van Mengerson, Monte created a one of a kind health resort and spa. Using the healing elements of the sea, guests can enjoy hydro seawater massage, seaweed and sea water body treatments, massage, and many other therapeutic treatments. All spa treatments are based on the naturally curative elements found in sea and the absorption of minerals that can be found nowhere else. The fame of Gurney's spa led to frequent visits from many famous individuals, among them Richard Nixon, who is said to have written his presidential acceptance speech in Skipper's Cottage.

Early on Monte's brother, Angelo, was brought into the business, making it a family affair. Monte remained active in the management of Gurney's Inn through the remainder of his life, although he moved to Henderson, NV in 2003. He passed on in October of 2007, at the age of 90, leaving his nephew Paul Monte to continue on with the family legacy. As CEO and General Manager, Paul has aptly led Gurney's Inn into the next century. In 1982, Gurney's Inn Resort & Spa became a Worldwide Timeshare Co-Op and currently hosts 2500 interval owners and guests each year. Paul is also the executive producer of the award winning "American Dreams" TV talk show, hosted by Ingrid Lemme. With the Atlantic Ocean as backdrop and a live audience, this charming show airs three times a week in primetime on Hamptons TV WVVH. Ingrid, who is also the Marketing & PR director for Gurney's Inn, says her favorite part of hosting American Dreams is, "Meeting the most amazing people and getting to spread the message of hope they carry." With her Zsa Zsa like accent and bubbly personality, Ingrid creates a delightful atmosphere for the 5 million viewers who tune in each week.

Gurney's Inn Resort & Spa has taken quite a journey over the years. From humble 22 room cottage like inn to the 109 room luxury beachfront spa it is today. With a dream that started with Maude Gurney and her husband, Gurney's Inn has become a Montauk tradition and relaxation spot for the weary. After 82 years of growing; it makes one wonder what is next on the bright Gurney's horizon.