Sampling Simplicity | Off the Grid

A unique Maine getaway takes visitors completely off the grid.

In a beautiful clearing in the woods, surrounded by a timber-frame house and rustic cabins, rests one of Maine’s most peaceful spots. Chickens cluck, pigs root for food, and an expansive garden slowly blooms. At the Deer Isle Hostel, hosts Dennis Carter and Anneli Carter-Sundqvist welcome guests with warm enthusiasm, plus hand-pumped water, composting toilets, solar showers, and nightly communal dinners.

For most of us, the idea of living off the land is daunting, not to mention impractical. But to become immersed in the world of the hostel is an opportunity to taste the simple life, if just for a few days. The farm is open to visitors in summer, and guests are asked to just help keep things tidy—no mandatory hard labor. “[Hosting] keeps me connected to the rest of the world,” Dennis says by way of explanation, though he’s hardly isolated; he and Anneli are active community members and do have Internet access. But guests are asked to refrain from cell-phone use, and there’s no electricity from which to recharge anyway. Musical instruments are encouraged. Solar-powered lights illuminate the main guest house. “I just want people to know that this is possible,” Dennis says.

Lack of refrigeration means meals are built around fresh produce from the gardens, eggs from the chickens, cured meats, and canned tomatoes from the previous season’s harvest. Guests are also asked to contribute something to the meal. One night in the middle of July, we feasted on a rich tomato soup with lentils and sautéed ramps and cheese brought by another visitor. After dinner, a campfire.

The solar shower proved to be an unexpected highlight of the stay. The water is piping hot, heated by a nearby compost pile. I filled a watering can, hooked it to a boat line, hoisted it to my desired height and presto, a comfortable shower. I went through two bucketfuls, but only because it was too much fun to quit after just one round.—B.S.

Deer Isle Hostel 65 Tennis Road, Deer Isle, Maine. 207-348-2308; deerislehostel.com. Rates: $25/person/night; $60 private; $15 kids under 14