Not All B&Bs are Inspected and Approved as the Member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Are.

Friday, January 13, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini
Guest Blogger:
Diane Emineth
Sandlake Country Inn 
8505 Galloway Rd
Cloverdale, OR 97112
"Your Romantic Getaway near Pacific City Oregon

All B&Bs are not alike. That's one of the great things about B&B, but it's also what makes choosing just the right one for each traveler a challenge. When making your decision on where to book, we suggest that you choose a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guildwhich has been inspected and approved and follows the Guild's Standards and Ethics


Did you know that in the State of Oregon a bed and breakfast with 2 or less rooms are not required to meet any state or county standards?! There is no inspection by county health departments, no food handlers training or permit is required and no entity checks to see if there is even any commercial liability insurance to protect you if you are injured on their property. If they have their own private water system, no county or state agency is checking to see if the water supply is safe.

You never have to worry about any of that when choosing a B&B that is a member of theOregon Bed and Breakfast Guild! The member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild (OBBG) have all been inspected and approved by OBBG and even it's small 1 or 2 bedroom B&B members meet state standards and more importantly, OBBG standards which are even higher than the state in many cases!



Here at Sandlake Country Inn we have been proud members of OBBG for more than 15 years and are also licensed and inspected by not only OBBG, but also our county health department twice a year with surprise inspections. Sandlake Country Inn has also been certified "Green"by the OBBG Green Inspected Program.

When making your choice of where to stay, choosing a B&B is a great choice, and choosing an Inspected and Approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast is is not only a great choice, but you can rest assured that you'll be healthy and safe too!

Ready for a fun night out in Southern Oregon?

Wednesday, January 4, 2012 by Heather Tyreman
Are you a character?  Or would you like spend the evening with a character or two?  Bybee's Historic Inn, an authentic Oregon bed and breakfast just outside of Jacksonville, OR, is offering that opportunity in January 2012.

Vikki Lynn, innkeeper from Bybee's Historic Inn, offers the following:

Local Historic Characters of the 1800’s come alive.

Join us for a truly unique initmate dining experience featuring a menu paired with wine or Dry Soda! 

Enjoy local historic characters that 'come alive' sharing their lives as it was in the 1800's while being captivated by a demonstration of how whiskey was made in a log still.

 When:     Monday January 16th  

                 6:30 - 10:00 pm

 Cost:        $55.00 per person for dinner and wine

                 $45.00 per person for dinner and Dry Soda

 How:       541-899-0106

 

LODGING & DINNER:      Luxurious room, dinner and gourmet breakfast for two.  $210.00 - 235.00 (depending on room choice).  To help us preserve the integrity of our vintage wood floors we ask that you please do not wear "high heels"on the porches or inside the home. Thank You!  

 Please check our website for more information. www.bybeeshistoricinn.com

Nothing like a little bit o' down home on the farm culinary tourism.  Hope to see you at Bybee's.  No word about sampling from the still, but who knows what a character might do!

Belles and Beaus of Jacksonville Pay a Visit to Bybee's Historic Inn

Monday, November 28, 2011 by Heather Tyreman
Belles and Beaus of Jacksonville Oregon gather in November 2011 at Bybee's Historic Inn for an evening of Victorian fun.You just never know what's going to happen next when you visit an Oregon bed and breakfast.

Vikki Lynn and Tina Marie of Bybee's Historic Inn near Jacksonville, OR, don't let the grass grow under their feet!  There's always something new and exciting going on at this authentic Oregon lodging.  Here's a report about a recent Northwest culinary event at their inn, combined with a little bit of Victorian fun.

They write:

November 5th: Twenty-two members of Belles and Beaus of Jacksonville enjoyed and evening of Victorian tradition at the Bybee’s Historic Inn.   Belles and Beaus is an organization that promotes history by dressing The gentleman of Belles and Beaus of Jacksonville Oregon gather at Bybee's Historic Innin vintage clothing and accessories while reviving the traditions of the 1800’s.  They pay attention to every detail including the clutches the ladies carried containing period appropriate items. 

After a gourmet dinner catered by Chef William Prahl of Deja Vu in Jacksonville, the ladies retired to the Parlor and the men remained in the dining room just as it was done in the Victorian era. 

To finish off the evening everyone gathered in the parlor to play Victorian games.  It was truly magical to have our 1857 circa home filled with guests representing that period.



If you're looking for a venue for your special event, consider Bybee's Historic Inn near Jacksonville, OR.  Bybee's Historic Inn specializes as an Oregon wedding location.  They also play host to various northwest culinary events in their dining room.  You can find out more at their special events webpage and at their wedding events webpage.


Or give them a call at (541) 899-0106 to discuss your plans.

Oregon Wedding Location Upgrades Its Facilities

Thursday, November 3, 2011 by Heather Tyreman

Innkeepers Vicki and Tina Marie working on an new addition to one of their Southern Oregon wedding venues at Bybee's Historic Inn in Jacksonville, ORWhen you own and operate an Oregon bed and breakfast and you're also one of the popular Oregon wedding sites, you need to plan your improvements accordingly.  Vicki and Tina Marie at Bybee's Historic Inn in Jacksonville, OR, are doing just that.  Here's a little note about their latest improvement.  Vicki writes:

"As our 2011 summer season comes to an end, we are working on new amenities for the 2012 season.  Tina has always envisioned an outdoor fireplace in the north yard and this fall it became a reality.  She designed it and we built it ourselves.  It is framed with cinder blocks, lined with clay firebricks and finished on the outside with river rock and brick. 

Outdoor fireplace is just one area you might choose one of Southern Oregon wedding sites popular locations in Jacksonville, OR at Bybee's Historic InnIt is a beautiful addition to one of our wedding areas as well as a fun place for our guests to relax under the stars gazing at the fire."

Southern Oregon brides and bridal planners take note!  Bybee's Historic Inn has a variety of locations on the property suitable for outdoor or indoor weddings and is a perfect Oregon wedding location.  In another blog post, Vicki described how they were able to salvage an old maple tree and transform it into a stately "gentleman with top hat" ready to pose with the wedding party at a moment's notice.

Give them a call at (541) 899-0106 to discuss your 2012 wedding plans.  As the weather starts to get colder and rain or snow falls outside, it's the perfect time to start planning ahead for that summer 2012 wedding.

McKenzie Pass- Santiam Pass Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Tuesday, October 11, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Fall is in the air and Winter just around the corner but there's still time to explore Oregon's Scenic Byways that might not be totally accessible during the Winter months.  Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway photo thx to TravelOregon'A Journey Through the Passes. Look both ways while crossing. These two connecting Cascade passes travel among 10,000-foot peaks, over jagged lava flows, along playful rivers, and through old-growth stands in two national forests. This incredible loop can easily be driven in a few hours. Unless, of course, you happen to have your camera, hiking boots, fishing pole or tent in the car.

Lava fields, snowcapped peaks and rushing rivers mark this 82-mile loop around two of central Oregon's Cascade Mountain passes.'  Consider making this a two, or three, day trip.  You can begin your trek on the West Cascades Scenic Byway, taking your time, enjoying the fall colors, McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Bywaylush forests, before shooting off onto the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway Loop.  Begin your journey after a hearthy Northwest Breakfast at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild in the Portland area, travel south toward Central Oregon then finish up in Eugene or Cottage Grove.  Make your plans soon as sections of this Scenic Byway are closed during the winter months.

Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Murder Mystery Dinner Thursday October 27th at the the Prospect Hotel and Dinner House in Southern Oregon

Sunday, October 9, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Murder Mystery at the Propect Hotel!
Murder Mystery Dinner Thursday, October 27th
Become one of the characters.  Each 'Actor' has a Role!
This 1960s Celebrity Celebration has all the Radio, TV and Movie Stars of the era! We assign you a character to play!
Are you the Murderer, or could you BE THE VICTIM?

Boby Marley stars in the 'Murder at the Prospect HotelYou arrive in costume 'Dressed to Kill' at 5:30pm for the introductory reception.  After going through your packet of information it is time for the first course of dinner and all the mayhem you can create.  You are one of the stars of the 60s. S omebody needs to figure out what is going on.  Spread rumors, detect clues, pay and take bribes for info.  As dinner progresses more creativity is encouraged.  Each course is another act!
ONE of you DIES - ONE of you DID IT!
Before dessert you vote for who was the murdererEverybody chooses the Best Dressed, Most Dramatic, and detemines who got the most money!
'Marilyn and Elvis' star in the Murder at the Prospect Hotel
Join the mystery dinner for only $45.00 Reservations Required TWO Weeks (by 10/13) in advance!  The best way to enjoy all this fun is to spend the night.  Package prices are available that include the Murder Mystery Dinner and a night's stay.
Call for more info 541-560-3664
Get to know our state like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

5th Annual Food & Wine Classic and Ashland Oregon Lodging

Friday, October 7, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
5th annual Food & Wine Classic celebrates Ashland’s amazing restaurants, talented chefs, and Oregon’s bounty, Southern Oregon style.  The event kicks off on Friday, November 4th with a Meet the Chefs party and the Downtown Wine Crawl.  Join us as Chandra Corwin of Cucina Biazzi, Ashland’s 2010 Top Chef, defends her title against seven others in the Chef Showdown Saturday and Sunday starting at Noon. Sample over 30 vendors and experience wine, farm and food workshops. 

2010 Food & Wine Classic, Ashland Oregon from Dana Welsh on Vimeo.

You have many Ashland Oregon Lodging options and we suggest choosing an inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  The Guild has 6 unique inns to choose from when visiting Southern Oregon and Ashland all sharing their passion for true Northwest Culinary dining.  Create a memorable weekend, select a unique and quality inspected bed and breakfast and maybe even enjoy the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s closing weekend by seeing a play.

The West Cascades Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Wednesday, September 28, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Fall is in the air and Winter just around the corner but there's still time to explore Oregon's Scenic Byways that might not be totally accessible during the Winter months.  Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

Sahalie Falls, where the McKenzie River plunges 100 feet over the baslt cliff.  TravelOregon'A Scenic Alternative to the Freeway. Contrary to popular belief, cruise control on Interstate 5 is not the only way to travel between the Portland and Eugene areas. If you're in no hurry, this journey through the colorful western Cascades makes getting there all the fun. Especially because, in addition to the open road, there are miles of rivers and trails to explore.

'The 220 mile West Cascades Scenic Byway runs north to south, skirting the northern half of Oregon's Cascade Range and follows four great riWest Cascades Scenic Byway - TravelOregonvers through timeless forests, where you'll discover adventure and renewal along the way.'

Consider making this a two, or three, day trip.  Take your time and enjoy the fall colors, lush forests, and spectacular views of snow capped mountains.  Begin your journey after a hearthy Northwest Breakfast at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild in the Portland area, travel south toward Central Oregon then finish up in Eugene or Cottage Grove.  Make your plans soon as sections of this Scenic Byway are closed during the winter months.

Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Wednesday, September 21, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Tidepools of the Oregon Coast - Photo from TravelOregon.comOregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state.  I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

'Wind, Waves and a Long, Winding Road. Yes, it's possible to drive the entire Pacific Coast Scenic Byway in a single day. But it's also pointless. Because you wouldn't have time to experience any of the breathtaking viewpoints, stunning state parks and quaint coastal towns.

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway - An Oregon Scenic Byway
'This Byway offers many natural wonders.  Visit between November and June to watch the storms come in or to scan the horizon to catch a glimpse of migrating gray whales.  Several rock formations are home to large colonies of seals and sea lions, and shorebirds abound in the countless estuaries.  And then there's the wind-sculpted dunes, marshes, lush agricultural valleys and majestic rainforests.'

Yes, it's possible to drive the entire Pacific Coast Scenic Byway in a single day.  But why would you when you have 21 member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild from Astoria to Port Orford?  Take a few days and enjoy the ride.

Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

What to do when you lose an old tree? How about Oregon wedding sites?

Wednesday, September 21, 2011 by Heather Tyreman

Old maple tree on the grounds of Bybee's Historic Inn Jacksonville OR before the transformation.Bed and breakfasts are such wonderful places.  And bed and breakfast owners are special people interested in the properties they transform into B&Bs.  Many inns are located in historically significant homes and the owners do what they can to maintain the character of the house and its surroundings.

It's been said that B&B owners have done more for the preservation of older and/or historic homes in the United States through their preservation efforts than have the preservation societies (perhaps a topic for another discussion).

Here's a story submitted by Vikki Lynn and Tina Marie of Bybee's Historic Inn near Jacksonville in Southern Oregon.

We recently were forced to cut down an old maple tree that we figure to be over 154 years old.  He graced our sidewalk and shaded our porch.  We adorned this beautiful tree with flowers at its base along with a “gnome door” and a face to help bring out his character. 

Rescued maple tree trunk at Bybee's Historic Inn Jacksonville Oregon and one of the Oregon wedding sitesWe did everything possible over the last 5 years to save this beautiful friend so it was very devastating to think of losing his graceful presence.....so we decided to keep his stump at 8’ so that his face could still shine and then we gave him a “top hat”.   His hat also provides a home for beautiful flowering plants.   He gives us a lot of pleasure every time we look at him and we hope it brings a smile to everyone who sees him.


It could just be off thought, but I'll bet dollars to doughnuts that Mr. Maple is about to start his new life as an Oregon wedding guest or perhaps as a wedding party participant.  Can't you see the bridal party posing with this fine fellow?  Check out Oregon wedding sites five years from now and I'll bet he shows up in quite a few photos!

If you're looking for Oregon wedding sites, keep Bybee's Historic Inn under consideration.  On 3 1/2 acres with plenty of gazebos and verandas, there's room for 150 wedding guests.  And I'm thinking that Mr. Maple would be proud to stand for your wedding photos!

The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Crater Lake Oregon - Photo from TravelOregon.comFall is in the air and Winter just around the corner but there's still time to explore Oregon's Scenic Byways that might not accessible during the Winter months.  Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

A National Park, a National Symbol, a Natural Treasure.  From Oregon's world-famous Crater Lake National Park to a prime viewing spot for bald eagles, this drive owes its dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife to a rich volcanic past. This All-American Road extends all the way to Lassen Volcanic National Park in California. But the Oregon segment alone offers plenty to absorb in a day.
The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway in Oregon's Southern Cascade Range
'You'll encounter the ancient natural forces that shaped exquisite mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks throughout this 'volcano to volcano' driving adventure that stretches from Crater Lake in Oregon to Mt Lassen in Northern California.'

Might we suggest lodging accommodations at a Southern Oregon Bed and Breakfast of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild when visiting this national treasure?  Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

3 Capes Scenic Route on the Stunning Oregon Coast

Sunday, September 11, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Our innkeepers are so very talented and creative.  Not only do they provide unique bed and breakfast accommodations, delightful breakfasts and all the amenities to present a unique lodging experience, we also spend time exploring our regions so as to have the very best local information for our guests.  Where to watch the best sunset, see a magnificent waterfall, the best stroll on the beach or hike in our forest.  We've been here and done that!  That's what makes staying at a member inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild the perfect getaway.  Whether it be only for a night or an extended weekend.  

This video was created by Diane Emineth, Innkeeper of the Sandlake Country Inn, to be shared with her guests and with her permission, to all of you.  Located just 10 minutes north of Pacific City, is this secret hideaway nestled on the scenic Oregon coast. The historic farmhouse built from shipwrecked bridge timbers in 1894, is located in a country setting approximately 1 mile from the Pacific Ocean coastline.

Enjoy the video and thanks, Diane.
 

The innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild on the Oregon Coast are ready to assist you in planning your getaway.  Any time of year is a beautiful time to visit the Coast.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Friday, September 9, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

The Wallowa Mountains and Joseph Oregon'A Mile-Deep Gorge and Two-Mile-High Mountains. Oregon's northeast corner has always been wild and untamed. From the unfathomable depths of Hells Canyon to the 10,000-foot peaks of the Wallowas, much of it remains inaccessible. The middle of this incredible drive is usually closed by snow from October through May. And it has just reopened after a damaging mudslide. Wild and untamed as ever.'

Tucked away in Northeastern Oregon, the towns of Joseph and Enterprise are premier small towns for art and culture and are home to member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, art galleries, unique shops and interesting restaurants.
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway thanks to Travel Oregon
Winter and spring guests will enjoy unencumbered snowmobiling, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing opportunities.  But if it's the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway you'd like to travel now's the time or you'll need to wait til it reopens next spring.  The fall colors are amazing along this drive.

Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Tuesday, September 6, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

A North Umpqua River Bridge - Thanks Travel Oregon
'Two Raging Rivers Run Through It
More commonly know as the 'highway of waterfalls', the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway ascends from I-5 into the southern Cascades, tracking two of Oregon's most storied rivers.  From any Southern Oregon town on I-5, you're only moments from enjoying this spectacular route. Follow the "Wild and Scenic" Umpqua and Rogue rivers through enchanting recreation areas in the heart of the southern Cascades.'

Plan to start your trip at the breakfast table of an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member in Southern Oregon.  After a day exploring the forests, lakes, waterfalls and rivers, rest your body and soul at our lone member B&B in Roseburg, Oregon, Thundering Waters Inn, right on the Umpqua River.  Or start here and head east then south.  Either way you'll enjoy this breathtaking tour through the thickly forested southern Cascades.

Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway Map
Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Labor Day Weekend in Eastern Oregon is Time for Juniper Jam!

Thursday, September 1, 2011 by Heather Tyreman
Juniper Jam 2011 at the Wallowa County Fairgrounds in Enterprise Oregon on Saturday of Labor Day Weekend

It's Wednesday before Labor Day Weekend and you're still trying to figure out what to do.  How about a one-tank trip to Eastern Oregon for a great Saturday outdoor concert?  Juniper Jam, the "sweetest little music festival in Eastern Oregon" takes place this year on Saturday, September 3, 2011.  Always the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend.

Don't think of this event as a second class way to spend the weekend.  Some of the region's best and brightest bands are playing this year--including Corn Mash, Fruition, Kevin Jones Band, Sons of Guns, James Dean Kindle and the Eastern Oregon Playboys, Jonathan Warren & the Billy Goats, and Buffalo Death Beam.  Plus, Carolyn Lochert, Simon Tucker and Janis Carper, Al MacLeod, Rodd Ambroson and Chase Nebel.  Some of these folks are famous and some are going to be famous.  Bring you lawn chair and hear them up close in the intimate setting of the Wallowa County Fairgrounds in Enterprise, Oregon!

Here's what's said about Juniper Jam:  Enterprise, Oregon is a small town of less than two thousand people, yet it is the heartbeat of a community brimming with arts and culture, and yes, music. Juniper Jam is a celebration of musical diversity, dedicated to showcasing a variety of musical genres while honoring the song and the songwriter.

You'll need a place to stay while you're here because once the music is done there's more to see and do in Wallowa County.  Consider these three Eastern Oregon members of the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild:

1910 Historic Enterprise House in Enterprise is closest to Juniper Jam and offers convenient walking access to Terminal Gravity Microbrewery (a good place to relax once the music is done for the night).  Want to fly in for the event?  The Enterprise House is easy downhill walking distance from the Enterprise Municipal Airport.

Belle Pepper's Bed and Breakfast is one of your choices in Joseph, about 6 miles away from the Juniper Jam site.  Located one block off Main Street in Joseph, this bed and breakfast is in the 1915 historic McCully Mansion and features many distinctive architectural touches.  Pepper and John welcome guests into their green certified lodging.  Their bed & breakfast is a Green Hotels member and is certified by Green America (formerly Co-op America) and the OBBG Green Lodging program.

The artsy Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast in Joseph also has a regulation surfaced bocce court in the north yard perennial garden.  Located on Main Street in Joseph, Oregon, it's also walking distance to Joseph's restaurants and shops.

Wherever you decide to stay, stay for certain in Wallowa County Oregon over Labor Day Weekend.  Take in the music, the sights, the lake, the mountains, the prairie, the food, the stars. . .need I continue?  See ya here!

Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Monday, August 29, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information

Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway Map

Photo by David Frates from the Travel Oregon Website'Construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway began in 1913 and was considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the modern age.

As its name implies, the Byway is incredibly rich in cultural history.  This stretch of the Columbia once served as fishing and meeting grounds for the many indigenous peoples of the Columbia Basin.  Oregon Trail Pioneers also traveled down the Columbia in the mid 1800s.

When the highway first opened in 1916, Teddy Roosevelt praised its scenic grandeur and remarkable engineering. And The Illustrated London News went on to call it "the king of roads." With its mossy stone walls and graceful viaducts winding past dozens of waterfalls, this All-American Road still reigns as one of the world's most glorious drives.'

Get to know our State like a local.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon in the Scenic Willamette Valley

Wednesday, August 17, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Submitted by Roselyn Mostafa
Innkeeper of the RR Thompson House
Carlton, Oregon

The Willamette Valley Wine Country of Oregon'The Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon returns to the Willamette Valley in September.  The route features a beaufiful course through the heart of Oregon Wine Country in Yamhill Count.  The run begins at 7 a.m. Sunday, September 4 at Stoller Vineyards and finishes in the town of Carlton.  To celebrate the conclusion of the race, a Wine & Music Festival will be held in Carlton from 9:15 to noon.

Other events are also planned in conjunction with the race.  Even if you are not running, you're sure to enjoy watching the race, the music and simply being in the beautiful wine Country of Oregon.  Check out the half marathon web site at www.run4oregonwine.com.

The R.R. Thompson House, located just three blocks from the race's destination in Carlton, still has availability for the Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon this coming Labor Day weekend.  Please call 503-852-6236 to reserve.

The Half Marathon is organized by Destination Races in partnership with the Willamette Valley Wineries Association and other local businesses."

Should the RR Thompson House fill up I'm sure the innkeeper will direct you to the other Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inns located in or near Carlton

This is only one of the many events happening throughout Oregon near the member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  Visit our websites event page, select the region you are considering travel to and plan your adventure today.

St Helens, Oregon ~ A Small Town with Big Surprises and an Elegant B&B

Sunday, August 14, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

St Helens, Oregon with Mt St Helens in the distanceThere's a quirky little town on the Oregon side of the Columbia River, a half-hour drive north of Portland, that is trying to discover itself. St Helens Oregon has already been discovered by Hollywood, for one.  Recently numerous scenes from "Twilight" were filmed here and each October Olde Towne recreated in the manner of the popular 1998 Disney movie, "Halloweentown".

Dozens of fishing boats might be waiting in the harbor for the tide to turn and the salmon to run.  The local brewery, "Captured by Porches" is lodged behind the Plantation House and Captain Jack's karaoke bar in the heart of Olde Town, along with shops and restaurants and the Columbia Theatre.  Sailors and kayakers with rentals from Scappoose Bay Kayaking, enjoy the calm waters of the narrow channel and farther out, oceangoing freighters and container ships traveled the main Columbia channel.  The front steps of the 1905 Columbia County Courthouse — located immediately north of Columbia View Park — look out upon Plaza Square, which extends between Strand and First streets.



Nob Hill Riverview Bed and Breakfast in St.Helens, OregonA delightful Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inn, The Nob Hill Riverview B&B, sits on a hilltop overlooking Olde Town and features a wonderful view of Mount St. Helen.  The perfect place to relax and unwind.  From the moment you step inside you will find that the Inn is elegantly appointed and restored for your comfort. You will feel pampered after a restful night's sleep and awake to the inviting aroma of homemade organic food being prepared for your breakfast.  A true Northwest Culinary treat for that romantic getaway and a unique inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.

Cascade Lakes ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Saturday, August 13, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Thanks to Travel Oregon for this shot of South Sister and a beautiful Cascade Alpine LakeOregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information

'Oregon's Highway in the Sky. When you venture out on this breathtaking loop past Mt. Bachelor and the alpine lakes of Central Oregon, you'll know why Scenic America named it one of the nation's 10 most important byways. If you don't stop, you can easily do the drive in an afternoon. But beware. Once you get out of the car, you'll want to stay forever.'Travel Oregon Map of the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Get to know our State like a local. For Bend or Sisters Oregon lodging, select a Bed and Breakfast is Central Oregon when enjoying this Oregon Scenic Byway.  Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Friday, August 12, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
 Covered Bridge in Oregon
Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state and I'd like to present a few of them in a series of blogs to create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information

Cottage Grove is known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon". There are seven bridges along the route, including Dorena Bridge, Stewart Bridge, Mosby Creek Bridge, Currin Bridge, Chambers Railroad Bridge, Centennial Bridge, and Swinging Bridge. Many of these bridges are used for weddings or are near swimming holes

Covered Bridges Scenic Byway
May we suggest starting your backroads experience at the Apple Inn Bed and Breakfast in Cottage Grove, Oregon. An inspected and approved member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild , the Inn peace and quiet on 200+ acres of forest land with walking trails and beautiful landscaping. Comfortable rooms with quality linens, satellite TV, frig, microwave, cozy socks, heated neck wraps and delicious food. Enjoy our great hospitality. In the country yet close to services. Come be pampered!