Camden Maine Lodging Archives - Camden Harbour Inn

6 Things to Know for the National Toboggan Championship Race

Posted on December 30, 2021 by camdenharb

One of the biggest draws to Camden, Maine, is the National Toboggan Championship race in winter. It’s an inspiring and unique event that you can’t find anywhere else. The city comes alive during the championships, making it one of the best times of the year to visit Camden, Maine. Furthermore, one of the best lodging options in the city is with Camden Harbor Inn. If you aren’t convinced yet about tobogganing, here are six things that should convince you to visit Camden, Maine, in the winter.

When Is the National Toboggan Championship?

As you can guess, the championship takes place in the winter, typically during February.

Where Is the National Toboggan Championship?

The event always takes place in the Ragged Mountain Recreation Area, in the Camden Snow Bowl, 20 Barnestown Road Camden, ME 04843. The venue is less than 10 minutes away from the Camden Harbor Inn.

What Is a Toboggan?

A toboggan is a long narrow sled that one or more people use to sled down a snowy hill. It’s typically made of wood. The entire toboggan is usually light in weight, and the sled’s front curves up and in toward the rider.

How Many Race Disciplines Are There?

Plenty! 11 disciplines range from traditional time trials to quirky ones. Here’s a rundown: 2-Person Division, 3-Person Division, 4-Person Division, Experimental Division, Fastest Time Overall, Fastest All-Females, Fastest Students, Best Crafted Toboggan, Oldest Team, Best Costume, and Worlds Division.

What Is the History behind the Championship?

The event started in 1991. The original toboggan chute was built in 1936, rebuilt in 1954, and 1990. Since then, it’s been the home to the annual toboggan race championship.

Can I Register for the Championship?

Yep! Read the official rules first, and you can register online. There is a fee to register as well.

Get Ready for the National Toboggan Championship Race Now

Now that you have a basic understanding of the National Toboggan Championship race, you can start planning your Camden, Maine weekend getaway. Outside of the championship, there are countless opportunities for fantastic dining, the best shopping, and hiking. All of this is nearby the Camden Harbour Inn, so you don’t have to think too hard about where and what you plan to do when you stay in Camden, Maine. For more information about the Camden Harbour Inn, please call us at 800-236-4266 or 207-236-4200 or send us an email at info@camdenharbourinn.com.

3 Best Places for Camden, Maine Sailing

Posted on August 19, 2021 by camdenharb

Maine is a fantastic destination if you want to experience the open ocean. Sailing in Camden, Maine, is one of the best things to do when you are in town. Furthermore, Camden Harbour Inn makes it easy to get out there and see everything without the fuss.

Where to Find Camden, Maine Sailing Charters without the Hassle

From booking to check-in to getting out on the water, it is all accessible thanks to welcoming staff, and the Camden Harbour Inn is in the ideal location. We have three Camden, Maine, sailing charter suggestions to get your Maine getaway started.

Anjacaa

See the Maine coastline like never before by sailing with Anjacaa. They offer cruises and private charters that can last two hours to all day if you want. The Anjacaa holds six passengers, includes a fully-cushioned cockpit, galley, living area, two private cabins, and two full bathrooms. Visit their website to book a charter ahead of your stay with us.

Schooner Olad & Cutter Owl

See what the Penobscot Bay has to offer you on a Schooner Olad and Cutter Owl charter. The Schooner Olad is a restored, classic sailing yacht built in 1927. It can hold up to 22 passengers. For smaller parties, you should try your luck at reserving the Sailing Vessel Owl. This ship holds up to 6 people for a more intimate experience. As a bonus Captain Aaron Lincoln, a local, will talk about the history of the area. Be sure to check out their website to reserve your charter ahead of time.

Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon is a converted lobster fishing boat from 2002. This is a unique sailing charter that you shouldn’t miss. It holds up to 17 passengers, and it’s a dog-friendly vessel. Also, no matter the time of year, you can reserve the Harvest Moon expedition. For those that are interested in stepping aboard this ship, visit their website for more information.

Stay at One of the Best Camden, Maine Hotels

There is so much more to discover in Camden, Maine. Sailing is one of the best, but once you get back on dry land, you can explore great dining, find the best shopping, get started hiking, and more. All of this is nearby the Camden Harbour Inn, so you don’t have to think too hard about where and what you plan to do when you stay in Camden, Maine. For more information about the Camden Harbour Inn, please call us at 800-236-4266 or 207-236-4200 or send us an email at info@camdenharbourinn.com.

The Ultimate Guide to Downtown Camden, Maine

Posted on March 20, 2021 by camdenharb

For over a century, Camden Harbour Inn has sat atop a hill overlooking Penobscot Bay. Its bright white exterior still catches the eyes of sailors arriving by boat, just as it did in the 1800s. From Camden Harbour Inn’s hilltop location, guests can look out across the harbor to the rugged Maine coastline toward the downtown village and the surrounding mountains. If the surrounding natural wonders aren’t enough to win you over, the charm of downtown Camden, Maine, will surely do the trick. Camden Harbour Inn sits just a stone’s throw away from downtown Camden, Maine, and its finest establishments. Continue below to read our ultimate guide to Downtown Camden, Maine.

Camden Opera House

The Camden Opera House was built in 1894 and first featured the Boston Opera Company’s performance of Maritama. Today, the Camden Opera House hosts a variety of events but is best known as an energetic live music venue in the heart of downtown Camden, Maine, which is beloved by locals and travelers alike.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe in downtown Camden, Maine, pays homage to the confectionaries and candy shops of the past. This charming candy store has a classic mom-and-pop atmosphere and serves a variety of sweets, such as homemade fudge, brittle, and truffles.

Shop ‘til You Drop

Shopping in downtown Camden, Maine, means browsing local artists at Small Wonder Gallery, indulging your inner bookworm at Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café, and so much more. Downtown Camden, Maine, has a variety of shops where you’ll find everything from local art to designer furniture. To find out more about our favorite stores in downtown Camden, Maine, check out our recent blog post.

Dine at Natalie’s

Downtown Camden, Maine, is a cherished dining experience that blends local flavors and innovative cooking in a delightful bay-view atmosphere. Natalie’s purchases fresh-caught seafood and organic products from local anglers and farmers, serving the Camden community year-round. To book a stay at our hilltop inn and plan your visit, please visit our promotions page.

Alpine Skiing in Maine: a Visitor’s Guide to the Camden Snow Bowl

Posted on February 1, 2021 by camdenharb

Unbeknownst to much of New England, the 100-acre Camden Snow Bowl features some of the cleanest alpine skiing in Maine. Despite its small-town feel, the Snow Bowl boasts more than 20-plus recently-upgraded runs that reach nearly 1,300 feet above the sea. There’s never been a more enticing time to “Ski the Sea,” as packed powder currently sits anywhere from 24 to 30 inches. Start and finish each day of MidCoast Maine exploration and sophistication at Camden Harbour Inn, a Relais & Châteaux top destination that is home to a AAA Four-Diamond restaurant.

The Most Underrated Alpine Skiing in Maine

While the Camden Snow Bowl is one of the oldest ski areas in New England, it remains an underrated coastal attraction. It offers some of the finest alpine skiing in Maine, including 48 well-lit acres of night skiing—a rarity. Over 60 percent of the terrain is deemed “advanced,” so prepare for a challenging, black-diamond experience. Some of the most beloved runs include the “Northeaster,” “Mussel Ridge,” and the “Lookout.” Ultra-skilled skiers can take full advantage of the Snow Bowl’s two expansive terrain parks.

Snowshoeing, Nordic Skiing, and National Toboggan Championships

Most New Englanders know the Camden Snow Bowl as the home of the U.S. National Toboggan Championships, nicknamed “Tobogganville.” Tobogganville is home to the U.S.’s last remaining gravity-operated wooden toboggan chute. Near the chute, Nordic skiing enthusiasts will discover pristine terrain via the expansive Kuller Nordic Loop Trail and adjacent Ragged Mountain Preserve, which also features ample acreage for snowshoeing. There’s no shortage of world-class Nordic skiing in Maine’s most romantic bay-side village. Snowshoers will also discover peaceful Hosmer Brook and a hidden trail atop Ragged Mountain.

Opulent, Award-Winning Lodging in Camden, Maine

After a memorable afternoon on the slopes, return to Camden Harbour Inn for a five-course lobster-tasting dinner, complete with a seafood tower for two, Maine oysters, lobster bisque, roasted lobster, fine vino, and more. Natalie’s features a sleek, European-style aesthetic and romantic ambiance. Follow dinner with a relaxing evening in a Penobscot Bay-view suite. In-room amenities range from iPads to BainUltra therapeutic air baths and traditional saunas. The inn is only a short jaunt from the heart of Camden, as well as the historic yacht club.

To book a well-deserved snow-filled escape to Camden Harbour Inn, please check availability online (or speak with a reservationist at 800-236-4266).

Camden Harbour, a Memorable Romantic Getaway in MidCoast Maine

Posted on January 27, 2021 by camdenharb

There’s no off-season for romance at Camden Harbour Inn, a Relais & Châteaux top destination and AAA Four Diamond restaurant located in the heart of MidCoast Maine’s prettiest bayside town. The inn is a short stroll from Penobscot Bay, downtown’s eclectic shopping district, and a 115-year-old yacht club. Winter is officially here to stay, at least for the next two-plus months. While that might discourage some travelers from motoring up Maine’s coast, there’s arguably no better time of year to escape the city en route to such a dazzling destination. As one of the premier romantic getaways in Maine, couples often flock to Camden’s snow-covered haven in hopes of rekindling an internal flame amid an idyllic, wintry setting. And there’s no better place to luxuriate, relax, and indulge than Camden Harbour Inn.

Explore MidCoast Maine

It’s vital to embrace winter, even if the temperatures are less than desirable. With average highs in the mid-30s, outdoor enthusiasts couldn’t ask for better weather. Camden welcomes approximately 60 inches of snow each year, which adds aesthetic appeal and snow-packed recreational opportunities. Common mid-day pursuits include cross-country skiing, backcountry snowshoeing, ice skating (in neighboring Rockport), and, of course, hours spent on the Camden Snow Bowl’s slopes—home to the U.S. National Toboggan Championships. A couple of months ago, the Camden Harbour team compiled 15 winter date ideas, which should come in handy this season. Finish a playful, passionate day of exploration with a specialty massage via a Camden Harbour lifestyle coach.

Culinary Arts and Craft Libations

Natalie’s, Camden Harbour Inn’s award-winning restaurant, remains the region’s crown culinary jewel, thanks, in part, to its unique combination of locally-sourced ingredients, world-class expertise, and interior enchantment. The refined, gourmet cuisines reshape with the seasons, as does the eye-popping 23-page wine menu, featuring labels from Spain, Italy, France, and all across the globe. Currently, the diverse menu includes Maine lobster, farm-raised duck breast, grilled swordfish, triple-seared rib eye, and crab-crusted salmon. Don’t leave MidCoast Maine without indulging in a decadent dessert, such as lemon mousse or caramel pudding. The region also boasts an eclectic mix of quaint coffee shops, sleek bars, and craft breweries, many of which are situated in Camden.

Romantic Getaways in Maine: Camden Harbour Inn

What sets Camden Harbour Inn apart from other like-minded romantic getaway destinations in MidCoast Maine is its head-turning blend of world-class hospitality, holistic experiences, fine cuisines, and opulent suites. Couples have the rare opportunity to start and finish each day of tantalizing adventures, unforgettable culinary experiences, and historical significance in a masterfully-designed grand suite equipped with a traditional sauna, a BainUltra air bath, a Kartell Bloom chandelier, an Apple iPad, an illy expresso maker, and so many more dazzling amenities.

To book a well-deserved romantic getaway to MidCoast Maine’s award-winning Camden Harbour Inn, please check availability online. Don’t forget to browse through the inn’s seasonal packages before booking.