The Optimist Guesthouse | 4

Camden, ME, United States

2 guests
0 bedrooms
1 bathroom

Wake in this stylish and cozy apartment to the sound of the Megunticook River flowing by as you contemplate the day's adventures in Camden. In the heart of downtown in the historic Knox Mill, The Optimist Guesthouse is perfect for travelers seeking a vibrant weekend getaway or an extended coastal adventure. The breezy balcony overlooking the river provides a peaceful spot to relax or enjoy a meal. The shared gym features an infrared sauna for ultimate relaxation.

Good to know

The Optimist Guesthouse is located in the Knox Mill, a historic woolen mill built in the mid 1800s along the Megunticook River in downtown Camden, Maine. Operational until 1988, the mill specialized in producing wool felt. The Optimist's balcony looks over the scenic Megunticook River as it flows into town. The Optimist Guesthouse consists of five apartments, a lobby area, and a small, shared gym room with infrared sauna. Down the hall you'll find our friends at 40 Paper Bistro & Bar, a delicious local eatery. Across the bridge you'll find The Jack bar and restaurant, and just up or down the street will bring you to more options. Being a retrofit of a historic building on a slab foundation, the plumbing is on a pump system, which you will hear when using water.

Other Details to Note

Being a retrofit of a historic building on a slab foundation, the plumbing is on a pump system, which you will hear when using water.

What this place offers

Common

  • Air conditioning
  • Cooking basics Pots and pans, oil, salt and pepper
  • Dishes and silverware
  • Hair dryer
  • Heating Central heating or a heater in the listing
  • Kitchen Space where guests can cook their own meals
  • Dedicated workspace
  • TV
  • Wifi

Bathroom

  • Body soap
  • Conditioner
  • Shampoo
  • Shower gel

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Hangers
  • Room-darkening shades
  • Clothing storage

What this place offers

Common

  • Air conditioning
  • Cooking basics Pots and pans, oil, salt and pepper
  • Dishes and silverware
  • Hair dryer
  • Heating Central heating or a heater in the listing
  • Kitchen Space where guests can cook their own meals
  • Dedicated workspace
  • TV
  • Wifi

Bathroom

  • Body soap
  • Conditioner
  • Shampoo
  • Shower gel

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Hangers
  • Room-darkening shades
  • Clothing storage

Entertainment

  • Exercise equipment

Family

  • Crib
  • Pack 'n Play/travel crib

Home safety

  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Smoke detector

Kitchen and dining

  • Coffee
  • Coffee maker
  • Hot water kettle
  • Microwave
  • Mini Fridge
  • Toaster
  • Wine glasses

Location features

  • Private entrance Separate street or building entrance

Parking and facilities

  • Free parking on premises
  • Gym Free, in the building or nearby
  • Sauna
  • Single level home No stairs in home

Services

  • Long term stays allowed Allow stay for 28 days or more

Accessibility and Availability

Neighborhood

Guest Access

Find us

Camden, ME, United States

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Approximate location. Full address will be provided on booking.

Reviews

Nicola
October 2025 · Airbnb
Loved #4 The Optimist! Clean, well appointed and exactly as described. Great location for seeing beautiful Camden. Thanks particularly for the diffuser on the hair dryer and half & half. It's the small details that make such a difference.
Jarrod
October 2025 · Airbnb
If you want a place in walking distance to restaurants, shopping and the harbor, this is the perfect place. The room is perfectly stocked with shampoo, conditioner, body wash and a hairdryer. The space was super clean and has a wonderful private table outside for relaxing with a drink. Oh and the towels were amazing!!
Angela
October 2025 · Airbnb
We loved our stay in Camden! We had never been and found it to be our favorite place on our Maine trip! What a wonderful Airbnb! Felt safe, clean, private. We loved the water running through the creek off the back porch and enjoyed our breakfasts on the back porch each morning. We found Camden and restaurants easily walkable from the Airbnb, and an easy walk to the trailhead of Mt. Battie. Beautiful trail and gorgeous view from Mt. Battie! Ryan and Evan were wonderful hosts and proactive about all we needed. Will definitely stay again if we ever return to Camden!
Jonathan
September 2025 · Airbnb
Great spot within walking distance to all the restaurants and shops downtown. Room was very clean, well-designed, and we loved the going outside on the deck and listening to the waterfall right outside the door. Would book again.