On Route 1 just a mile North of Camden, lies a little spot in the woods known as the Lodge at Camden Hills. This is a true retreat, especially for this weary travel writer.


A beautiful property that backs up to Mt. Battie, the Lodge has outstanding views of Penobscot Bay in front and massive evergreen trees and lichen covered stones in back. This is truly a nature lover’s retreat.

I’m in cabin #7, all the way to the left. It’s a pet friendly cottage, with more room than a traditional suite. A wood burning fireplace keeps things cozy in the living room, while a heart shaped Jacuzzi will warm things up in the bedroom.

The fireplace is stocked with cured, split logs and starters that are ready to burn. A queen sized bed, ample closet space and a bathroom with separate shower are standard amenities here.


After a several days of bouncing around, this little hideaway is a blessing. Sunlight streams through the kitchen window, mirroring off the waters of the bay in the mornings.

The cottage has a kitchenette complete with a 2 burner stove, sink, mini fridge, and is stocked with dishes, glassware, silverware and cookware. After being on the road so much, it’s nice to be in a spot where cooking is possible in case the mood strikes.

French doors open out to the front deck, in captivating early risers with a breathtaking sunrise. Watching the moonrise over the waters with a glass of wine is also nice. Grandfather Sun’s golden rays shimmer off of the ultramarine surface of Penobscot Bay, overlooking the islands of Vinalhaven and Northhaven.

The individual cottage accommodations are perfect for resting and writing. With three decks, the cottage is equipped with plenty of chairs for enjoying the gorgeous views.

Sixteen cottages grace this property that backs up to Mt. Battie. A walk through the woods brings evidence of moose, deer, wild turkey and coyote.

In fact, a moose cow and her calf walked through here recently. This is as close to a moose as I’ve gotten. Just for fun, I put my fingers in the track, and was shocked to learn that it’s larger than my hand. Thankfully the rutting season is over for moose because meeting a bull in high want of a date is not on my list of things I’d like to do today. However, observing one from the distance would be incredible. A young deer was through here also, rutting season is just starting. He left behind tracks, broken branches and evidence of his stamping and clawing the ground in his quest for a mate.

The treeline of birch have lost many of their schoolbus yellow leaves, revealing snow white trunks in succession, a line of standing soldiers surrounding the meadow. The bubbling sounds of the stream bring along a sense of serenity, a depth of comforting that one cannot get from any other source. This place is magical, alive and peaceful. I am so glad to be here for more than the customary two days. In fact, if the truth be known, I could settle in for the winter right here.


The cottages are decorated to take advantage of space and natural light, with comfort for guests in mind. The property has been in the family for 30 years. When Jack and Mimi Burgess retired to Camden, they bought The Lodge at Camden Hills with the goal of creating a relaxing retreat to lay eyes on the view, they set about renovating the existing cottages and building new ones. Now run by grandsons Leaf and Jimmy Burgess, the property continues to provide a tranquil respite for guests wishing to reconnect with Nature and each other in total comfort.

All cottages are equipped with fireplaces and jacuzzis, for that romantic Maine experience one can appreciate whether alone or with that special someone.

Amazing how one mile can make a difference in tranquility. Located on the eastern slope of Mt. Megunticook with views of Penobscot Bay and its numerous islands, the Lodge is adjacent to Camden Hills State Park and its scenic drive to the top of Mt. Battie. At 800 feet above sea level, it's a fabulous, unobstructed panorama of 50 miles of Maine's coastline.

Contact Information:
E-mail
lodgeatcamdenhills@gmail.com

Telephone
800.832.7058
207.236.8478

Mailing Address
The Lodge at Camden Hills
P.O. Box 794
Camden, Maine 04843

Website:
http://www.thelodgeatcamdenhills.com/