The Norumbega Inn has always intrigued me. This is a beautiful stone manor, a “castle” by the sea that I have driven past countless times and have always wanted to stay there. Andrew will tell you that it is not actually a castle because it doesn’t have crenellations, which I needed to look up because I had no idea what he was talking about. Ok, so it doesn’t have battlements but I’m calling it a castle just the same. I had the opportunity to spend a weekend on this lovely property, to finally explore the inside and you should too if you’re in the area!

The history of the Norumbega Inn is quite interesting. Joseph Stearns, a native of Weld, Maine and the inventor of the duplex telegraph (another thing I needed to look up) was the designer of this beautiful building. After selling his invention to Western Union and traveling the world, he decided to return to Maine and build the kind of castle that he had visited throughout his travels. Norumbega remained a private residence for more than a century and is listed on the National Historic Registry. In 1984 the home was converted into an inn and is currently owned by Susan Walser and Philip Crispo. (Since originally writing this post the Inn has new owners! Will Tims and his partner Brett Haynie)

There are plenty of spaces to sit and relax inside The Norumbega. The first floor has a sitting room with a fireplace, cozy corners to read or play chess and a breakfast room. There is also a formal dining room. We had breakfast delivered to our room but the bright breakfast room was certainly inviting and had lovely views as well. Downstairs you’ll find a couple of guest rooms and another common area filled with games and a TV. I love the exposed brick.

We stayed in the Penthouse Suite which is on the fourth floor. The room was just what we were hoping for. Beautiful views, a private balcony, a telescope to investigate the night sky and a super comfy bed. Each morning we had a three course breakfast delivered to our room to enjoy while taking in the views.

The breakfasts were amazing and it’s not surprising when you find out that Philip Crispo is a Chopped winner! We enjoyed saffron infused breakfast polenta topped with stewed rhubarb, cheddar cheese biscuits, and egg dipped challah bread with “rum punched bananas”, maple brushed bacon, a breakfast burrito with adobo chicken and pork and a Greek yogurt parfait. Yum! ( Philip Crispo is no longer an owner of the Inn but the current owners are still whipping up delicious breakfasts!)

If you are ever in Camden or are planning a trip to the midcoast I highly recommend a stay at this castle. The views are amazing, the staff were so nice, each room is unique and the food was fabulous. Check out their website for more info! I LOVED the Penthouse Suite but would love to stay in the Library Suite as well. How cool would it be to sleep surrounded by books?