National Geographic Traveler Magazine Names Camden Harbour Inn to Top Places to Stay in the U.S.

CAMDEN, Maine – National Geographic Traveler knows how to pick the best places to stay in the world. They’ve visited, they’re knowledgeable, and millions of people count on their opinion when looking for the perfect “authentic, purposeful place to enhance [their] travels.” For 2009, the magazine has named the Camden Harbour Inn one of 129 “Hotels We Love” in National Geographic Traveler’s second annual “Stay List” for the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

“The hotels on our Stay List 2009 don’t just reflect their surroundings – they help define them,” reads the introduction to the Traveler 2009 Stay List. “…[they have] a transcendent vision that goes beyond traditional hotel-keeping. This mindset is what gives these hotels their special sense of place.”

National Geographic Traveler determines its nominations for the Stay List on a set of very specific standards including whether the inn is engaged with the local community and adheres to “sustainable practices” appropriate for its region, and if the place “captures the spirit of its setting.” Submissions are condensed to a list of just 129 hotels (31 of which are in the eastern U.S., with only two in Maine).

Other properties honored with the Traveler listing in 2009 include such exclusive inns and hotels as Barnard, VT’s AAA five-diamond Twin Farms; the historic Hay-Adams Hotel in Washington, D.C.; and the ultra-luxurious Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands and the Four Seasons Resort, Lodge at Koele on the private island of Lana’i in Hawaii.

“We are thrilled to be included in this eminent list,” remarked Camden Harbour Inn Owner Raymond Brunyanszki. “There are many lodging recommendation lists and ‘ratings’ out there, but we certainly hold National Geographic Traveler’s commendations to be among the most carefully considered. This is a great honor.”

The Camden Harbour Inn is a AAA four-diamond property offering world-class service and amenities, with 18 unique guestrooms and suites - each with a distinct style and dazzling view – and every conceivable modern convenience. Opulently decorated with a stylish mix of rare antiques and modern design, several guestrooms offer wood burning fireplaces, balconies and/or private decks. With its inviting wrap-around porch, white clapboard siding, fine roof lines and stunning views, the Inn attracts a discerning upscale clientele who return often to experience one of New England’s most tranquil, inspired and treasured settings.

The Inn’s on-premise restaurant, Natalie’s, also honored with four diamonds by AAA, has been called the finest gourmet eatery in Maine. Natalie’s is a stunning restaurant offering Modern French cuisine with a local Maine twist – as well as a 200 specialty wines from its exceptional wine cellar – all in a beautiful relaxed setting. Natalie’s offers sophisticated décor, impeccable service and gourmet dining without the pressure of formal attire, served under the culinary direction of Chef de Cuisine Lawrence Klang. Chef Klang recently returned from a guest chef visit to the Michelin two-star restaurant Ciel Bleu in Amsterdam, where he joined forces with one of the Netherland’s most talented chefs, Onno Kokmeijer. He’s been invited to return later this year.

For information or reservations, visit www.camdenharbourinn.com, or call 207-236-4200.

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