For Real Down East Charm, Visit Camden's the Norumbega Inn

The Norumbega Inn, situated in Camden, Maine, is a historic gem that seamlessly blends 19th-century elegance with modern luxury. Constructed in 1886 by the hugely successful Gilded Age entrepreneur Joseph Barker Stearns, it was immediately nicknamed "the Stone Castle by the Sea," though Stearns preferred it be called simply "Norumbega." It remained for the next century a private residence that was often an escape destination for East Coast high society.

In 1984 the property was converted into an inn by Elsie Griffin. It changed hands over the years until it caught the attention of William Tims and his partner, Brett Haynie. They purchased The Norumbega in May, 2022 and set about meticulous renovations to preserve its original splendor while introducing contemporary comforts.

Tims fell in love with Camden as a teenager, remembering how he was drawn to its cool, coastal charm as an escape from the heat of Mississippi. "During COVID, Brett and I were looking for a place to escape the chaos of New York City. We wanted to leave the rat race behind, so we started looking in Maine to purchase an inn. That's when we discovered The Norumbega was for sale in Camden. As an architect and real estate professional, I was immediately intrigued. Of the nine properties we visited, it was by far our favorite.

"One of our primary concerns was how we, as a gay couple, would be received. But we've found a very welcoming community. Camden is a special place with broad appeal, where everyone can feel at home."

The staff provides attentive and personalized service. The Innkeeper, Abby, truly made the experience unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, she made us feel completely at home. In the hospitality industry, it is rare to come across someone who is genuinely kind, attentive, and passionate about their work.

The inn's chef, Mary, offers an extraordinary culinary experience. Guests can indulge in a sumptuous breakfast that changes daily and features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes various options, from healthy choices to indulgent treats, ensuring a satisfying start to the day. Love cookies? Every day, as a midday snack, two kinds of freshly-baked cookies are placed near the second-floor coffee station. Mary's Ginger Molasses cookies are out of this world. I would book another stay to have one.

Each of the inn's 11 luxe rooms is uniquely designed, blending historic charm with modern comforts. Some of the rooms offer ocean views, fireplaces, soaking tubs, and private terraces, enhancing the overall experience. It will be challenging to choose a room, as they all feature a distinctive style with unique charm.

Located in the solarium is a full-service bar that connects to the terrace, serving a selection of small plates. Chef Mary's dishes emphasize fresh, local ingredients.

The inn's proximity to downtown Camden allows guests to explore local shops and restaurants. One gem is Mosaic, which offers an eclectic mix of Mexican-inspired dishes. The menu changes frequently with daily specials. Not only were the corn and zucchini fritters, the Mexican Street Corn Dip, and the fresh fish tacos memorable, but the service was also top-notch.

The Norumbega Inn provides a memorable stay with its combination of historic charm, modern luxury, and personalized service, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a unique and upscale accommodation in Camden, Maine.

The Norumbega Inn was one of the sponsors of the recent Pride Festival, held annually in early June.

This "castle by the sea" should be placed on top of your "must-visit places" list.

To book your stay, visit the Norumbega Inn website.