Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
This property has identified as LGBTQIA+-owned.
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The Norumbega, nestled along a lush and scenic stretch of coastal Route 1 overlooking Penobscot Bay, is one of Maine’s most distinguished inns and sought-after boutique hotels. Built in 1886 as a single-family home in the style of Europe's grand estates and manor houses, the castle-like structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Norumbega offers eleven unique and elegant guest rooms, including two luxurious suites, all furnished with King beds, sitting areas, and en-suite baths. Guests enjoy a gourmet breakfast, and an intimate bar offers wine, beer, and classic cocktails most evenings. With endlessly elaborate wooden trimmings, several prominent fireplaces throughout the house, and a quiet yet personable level of service, The Norumbega offers a uniquely sublime place from which to enjoy Camden-Rockport and midcoast Maine.
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The Norumbega Inn garners high praise for its exceptional service, with guests often lauding the staff's warm and personalized attention. Nestled in a prime location near downtown, the inn offers scenic views and easy access to local attractions. Visitors are charmed by the blend of historical elegance and modern comforts, from the cozy fireplaces to the luxurious decor.
The inn's amenities, including sumptuous rooms and a delectable breakfast, are frequently applauded, as is the meticulous upkeep contributing to the property's cleanliness. While some regard the pricing as steep, the consensus is that the experience provides superb value.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Exceptional
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Outstanding
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We shared a wonderful weekend with friends at The Norumbega Inn. A few days in advance, The Inn had sent us late check-in instructions. This was good as we didn't know it at the time but we were to be delayed in northbound traffic on the interstate departing Boston. We were late and the check-in instructions worked perfectly. Great communications.
The Norumbega Inn is just North of Camden on US 1 but sits off the road slightly. The building is truly a sight to see, resembling a glorious castle of old days. Originally built in 1886 the architecture is amazing and the restoration had to of been a major undertaking in 2022. Fixtures and infrastructure were modernized but everything else looks to have been restored to its original beauty. The interiors are artisan featuring lots of wood and curved moldings, a library and even a piano. The main level features the dining area, outdoor covered dining, bar, library, reception, piano and access to the rooms. The outdoor seating areas, grounds and parking areas are well lit, safe, immaculate and beautifully landscaped. A back staircase provides a secondary exit. All the rooms are well appointed, have fantastic linens and thoughtful furnishings as well as en-suite bathrooms, designer toiletries, flat screen TV and WiFi. Self serve coffee and tea is available in the hall on each level. Some rooms have separate living areas, fireplace, water views, clawfoot tubs and private deck.
There is a chef inspired hot breakfast (Chef Marymarcel) that changes daily. Later in the day, the bar and small plate offerings are simply fabulous. These are also open to the public on Sunday, Monday and Tuesdays 4:00 to 6:45pm.
Many thanks to the hosts and staff for making our stay very special. Paulo (cook), Ali ,Sam (housekeepers), Sara (housekeeper / bar server), Shirley (housekeeper / bar server) Will, Brett and Abbe.
Considerations: -Reservations recommended -No elevator (stairs only)
Ultimately, go and visit! It is a luxurious gem of an Inn to be discovered. We will be back in the future!
Urban Cowgill August 2023
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from William Tims, Owner at Norumbega Inn
Responded Aug 17, 2023
Thank you Jeff for such a kind, thorough and detailed review of Norumbega - we couldn't have described it better ourselves! It was a pleasure hosting you and Carol and we look forward to your next visit to midcoast Maine. Have a wonderful end of summer, and enjoy the next stop on your itinerary!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
In the midst of COVID 19 my wife and I knew there was nowhere we would rather be than in that beautiful turret at the Norumbega in Camden. This stunning castle-shaped inn is our home away from home with the incredible owners, Sue and Phil treating everyone who walks through the door like family. As a couple with a compromised immune system and dietary restrictions, health and safety are of utmost importance to us. Masks were required everywhere and hand sanitizer was readily available on all floors, to help visitors feel clean and secure. Even with these protocols in place, we still had the most lavish stay, as Sue and Phil normalized these processes and elevated our experience beyond an escape from a global crisis into an incredible vacation. Sue and Phil did everything in their power to keep us feeling not only safe, but also special and taken care of.
Every evening we would salivate over the choices for breakfast the next morning. Each day was better than the last. Phil has the incredible ability to dream up exquisite meals while fresh ingredients, while still adhering to the guests' various dietary restrictions. We love this place and cannot recommend it highly enough.
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Date of stay: August 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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I’ve stayed in quite a few B&Bs and very few reach a level of complete excellence that the Norumbega effortlessly achieves! Our room was sumptuous yet cozy; tucked away in the subterranean level of the house, we stayed perfectly warm during the several single-digit nights. The many open communal spaces in the inn were equally as inviting and comfortable. I’m not sure I’ve ever wished for a longer stay somewhere just so I could sit by the window and watch the snow - at least, not until now. If my rhapsodic waxing about this place hasn’t yet depicted the Norumbega as the perfect B&B it is, let me speak about the food. My goodness. The food itself is an experience not to be missed! Each course is a culinary delight; a complementary meld of flavors that sing a delicious chorus of ~Y U M~ with each bite! I was particularly taken by a perfectly crisp banana fritter we had on our second morning, described in the texted breakfast menu we received the day before as: “sesame seed encrusted Banana fritter, ginger riata, mixed berry coulis, saffron infused golden syrup”. Personally I’ve never had anything more heavenly! If you have ever wanted to stay at a B&B but were uncertain of what you might encounter, you MUST stay at the Norumbega! Let it be what you measure all other B&Bs against, for they should all rise to the bar that Sue and Phil have set!
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Date of stay: February 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My wife and I spent two nights at the Inn and it was A thoroughly enjoyable experience in many ways. The location was very convenient, just on the outskirts of downtown Camden with great views of Penobscot Bay and a mile from Camden Hills State Park where we did some hiking with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The three course Breakfast was three thumbs up with a balanced selection and masterfully prepared. The room was comfortable and inviting and the hosts were very pleasant and accommodating. Definitely worth a return trip. Rick G
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Date of stay: January 2020Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Holy Moly! This is one of the most beautiful places you can stay. Sue, the owner, provided a service that was beyond words. Since my first phone call to organize a reservation with Sue she had been friendly, accommodating, honest and welcoming to several requests. Our stay at this exquisite facility truly added the luxurious finishing touches to our engagement trip. The regal environment by staying in the library suite gave us a sense of escaping to Europe. Breakfast every morning was OUTSTANDING with the full works and flavors you'd hope for from a 5 star chef. I cannot thank this establishment enough for such a great trip and I strongly recommend Norumbega to my friends and family.
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Date of stay: July 2020
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
From the moment we arrived, Will and Brett enthusiastically greeted us and instantly, we felt at home. We learned that Will and Brett took ownership less than a month ago, and from what we experienced, they are doing a fine job of running this glorious inn.
What we loved about this inn: Walking distance to downtown, coffee stations located throughout the inn for guests to use (also a refrigerator at each station); games and TV downstairs, our room was clean and cozy, the breakfast was sensational (and one more it was rainy and the lit fireplace was an added bonus); the lovely music during breakfast, the umbrellas for guests to use, the quietness of the inn, our own private sitting area in the back looking over the lusciously manicured lawn, the vastness of the inn, and the communication with the owners.
Some areas that I noticed may need tending to (but I can see that Will and Brett on "on it" so I am assuming this may have been passed down from previous owners): our chairs and duvet in our room had light stains, the tub had a slow drain so during my shower, the water filled up quite fast.
Overall, this was a splendid stay. We can't wait to go back!!
Thank you Will and Brett for an amazing stay!
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Date of stay: June 2022
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Will Tims, Owner at Norumbega Inn
Responded Jun 23, 2022
Thank you Natalie for your kind words - we are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us and hope to see you back in Camden very soon!
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My family and I just returned from a wonderful weekend at The Norumbega Inn.
What a wonderful experience! We couldn’t have enjoyed ourselves more. Our lovely guestrooms each had a fireplace as well as a gorgeous view with beds that were way too comfortable. Sue’s hospitality was outstanding and Chef’s cooking was beyond suberp. The three course breakfast options, including the yummiest of pastries and delightful parfaits, followed by the most scrumptious of entrees certainly started our days off to perfection. You’ll have to visit yourself though to see what delicious treats Chef Phil has in store for you.
Three cheers and many thanks to Phil and Sue, our gracious hosts. We all look forward to returning in the future.
Jeannie đź’–đź’–đź’–
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Had a lovely 4 nights at the Norumbega—well worth the splurge. Loved being able to spend a few days such a stately old home with so much history. Location can’t be beat—loved walking into town every day and to the Mt Battie trailhead without needing the car. We stayed in the Arundel which was quiet, comfortable, and huge—loved the ability to sit out on our own little patio. We were able to arrange for wine or local beer in the room upon arrival, and while there’s no fridge in room, we had ice service as needed to keep things cool.
Public areas of the inn were great—liked playing darts in the pub room and reading in the cozy nooks on the main floor. Hosts and staff were wonderful and helpful with late arrival and helping to find dinner places to eat. (Sadly, they’re not currently serving anything but breakfast)
Food was delicious — hosts communicate the afternoon prior with the menu to confirm your choice of entree, preferred time, and if you wanted in room breakfast or in the dining room or patio. Breakfasts are great—tasty and unique offerings that are selected, prepared and plated perfectly. I often skip boring hotel cooked breakfasts but never here!
Thanks for a relaxing, memorable stay in coastal Maine—we will be back!
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Date of stay: July 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This was our first stay, and won’t be our last. I wanted to surprise my wife with a night away for Mothers Day. I booked the Arundel room. The staff was very accommodating to my wife’s food allergens, and prepared dishes without eggs for her. Definitely recommend for a nice relaxing and romantic evening.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I have loved Norumbega since I was a little girl, dreaming about it while on family vacations. This year, my husband and I were able to stay there for four nights...aahhhh! We stayed in the Kensington room, and it was lovely. On the second floor, down a short hallway, it felt like we had our own private wing. The bedding was soooo comfy, the bathroom nice and modern, yet fitting right in with the vintage room. Toiletries provided are proprietary, and have lovely light scents. Right outside our room was the door to a "shared balcony." The shared part seemed to be with one of the third floor rooms/suites that had its own balcony, so we never had to share -- so private, and with breathtaking views of grounds & ocean. Also on the second floor, just down the hall from our room, was the "guest pantry" with the makings for coffee and tea, or their own filtered water and ice...nice! Breakfast, included each morning, was gourmet and delicious. A buffet included fresh baked goods (muffins, sweet breads, etc.), house made granola, a toaster with bread and bagels, local jams & jellies, plus coffee, tea, juice, and almond milk. We helped ourselves to these, and waited to be served the day's hot entree: blueberry pancakes & sausage, or eggs benedict, or french toast with thick, perfectly-done bacon, and more. Abby, the innkeeper, and Bret and Will, the owners, do a fabulous job of making everything easy, lovely, and comfortable. Each of them is also very friendly and personable. They have thought of every detail, and it shows!
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Â No "bridal" suite, but 2 suites are avail. No instant coffee; guest pantry has a Keurig for...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Will Tims, Owner at Norumbega Inn
Responded Nov 2, 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a kind and detailed review of your stay at The Norumbega. We were so glad to be a part of your childhood dream come true, and hope you'll visit again!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi Jeffrey!
Great to hear from you. Sorry for the lag in responding...I didn't see this until a couple of minutes ago. Yes, we can make that happen. I'll email you with info and we can go from there.
Sue
From the front door of The Norumbega to downtown Rockland (Main St & Park Drive) where Lobster Fest is centered, it's 9.1 miles - about a 20 minute drive. Many visitors to the annual festival love staying in Camden, so they get a little bit of 'lobstah' and a lot of the Mid Coast!
Thanks for asking. In addition to the decks and from the Penthouse, the Balmoral and Canaervon rooms (on the 3rd floor) and the Warwick and Kensington rooms (on the 2nd floor) also have views of the water. During the summer months, the views on the lower floors are partially obstructed by trees, but still visible. At this time of year through late spring, the views are that much better because the leaves are off the trees.
There are more places to choose from in the Camden area.
PRICE RANGE
$304 - $368 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
norumbega hotel camden
LOCATION
United StatesMaineMid Coast MaineCamden
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Which popular attractions are close to Norumbega Inn?
Nearby attractions include Camden Harbor Park and Amphitheatre (0.6 miles), High Street Historic District (0.7 miles), and The Smiling Cow (0.6 miles).
