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The Optimist Guesthouse | 5

Camden, ME, United States

4 guests
0 bedrooms
1 bathroom

Nestled in Camden’s historic Knox Mill, The Optimist Guesthouse offers a refined retreat in the heart of town. Awaken to the gentle murmur of the Megunticook River flowing past, savoring moments of tranquility on your breezy balcony—perfect for quiet reflection or intimate dining. Unwind in the convenient shared gym, complete with an infrared sauna. A sophisticated haven, The Optimist Guesthouse exudes calm and yet is just steps from all that bustling Camden has to offer.

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
  • Cleaning products
  • 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
  • Hot Water
  • Shampoo
  • Shower gel

Bedroom and laundry

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

What this place offers

Common

  • Air conditioning
  • Cleaning products
  • 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
  • Hot Water
  • Shampoo
  • Shower gel

Bedroom and laundry

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

Entertainment

  • Exercise equipment

Family

  • High chair

Home safety

  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Smoke detector

Kitchen and dining

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

Location features

  • Private entrance Separate street or building entrance

Parking and facilities

  • Free parking on premises
  • Sauna
  • Single level home No stairs in home

Services

  • Cleaning before checkout

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

Fred
October 2025 · Airbnb
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful studio apartment style unit. The unit was spotless, very comfortable, and had everything we needed. The kitchen area is well equipped, and although we didn't use it much there is everything you need to prepare or enjoy meals. We especially enjoyed the semi-private deck overlooking a lovely waterfall, it was a great place for a cup of coffee in the morning and such a peaceful spot to relax. The king sized bed was very comfortable, one of the better beds we've had at an Airbnb. We can tell that the hosts went to great efforts to make the place clean and comfortable. On-site parking is a huge plus! You can just leave your car and easily walk to the harbor, downtown shops, and great restaurants, which made exploring the area stress-free. The hosts were incredibly responsive and friendly, making the whole experience smooth and welcoming. We would definitely recommend this place and would love to stay again!
Kerri
October 2025 · Airbnb
Our stay in Camden, Maine, was absolutely perfect. The apartment was beautiful, spotless, and so comfortable — truly felt like home. The location couldn’t have been better: right in town, close to everything, with great restaurants and shops just steps away. We loved being able to walk down to the harbor and enjoy the gorgeous waterfront views every day. Camden is such a charming, picture-perfect town, and this apartment made our visit even more special. We can’t wait to come back!
Kayla
October 2025 · Airbnb
Loved our stay. It was clean, cozy and exactly what we were hoping for. We really enjoyed the location and how walkable everything was so we didn’t have to worry about parking.
Monica
September 2025 · Airbnb
We loved this place so much we extended our time there and spent an extra night! This airbnb was close to several restaurants, including one located just down the hall in the same building. The furnishings and linens were both tasteful and comfortable, and we appreciated the historic origins of the building. There is a sound associated with water usage due to the water pump needed, but we quickly became accustomed to that. All in all, we would happily stay again.