Our rich history dates back to 1751 when the antique section of The Rugosa was built on Billingsgate Island in Wellfleet, before being moved to its current location in North Eastham a century later. Originally owned by Captain Isaiah H. Horton, a direct descendant of Constance Hopkins who journeyed to the New World aboard the Mayflower, The Rugosa remained a family residence for generations.

In the 1980s, The Rugosa transitioned into a hotel under the stewardship of the Penney Family, becoming affectionately known for decades as " The Penny House."

In 2017, young entrepreneur Joey Rugo took the reins, rebranding it as The Rugosa. Since then, the guesthouse continues to undergo restorations and updates, harmoniously blending the original charm of the building with modern beauty and style.

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Upon entering The Rugosa, your gaze will be drawn to its walls adorned with captivating contemporary art. Serving as a canvas for creativity, The Rugosa has welcomed numerous artists through its residency programs, transforming the guesthouse into a vibrant hub of artistic expression. During these residencies, the air buzzes with creativity as artists engage in various workshops and projects throughout the week.

Much of the artwork adorning the walls is the handiwork of these talented residents, each piece infused with their unique perspectives and styles. For those captivated by the artwork, an opportunity awaits at www.rugosagallery.com, where a wider selection of their creations is available for purchase. Thus, every visit to The Rugosa not only offers a stay filled with artistic inspiration but also a chance to take a piece of that inspiration home with you.

For your convenience, we operate a self-check-in system. Upon your arrival, you'll find an envelope at the front desk containing your room key and directions. While we may not always be on-site, rest assured that we're just a phone call or email away for any assistance you may need during your stay at The Rugosa.

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We hope you enjoy your time with us