Columbia River Gorge Hotels

The Hood River Holiday Market and Winery Events in the Columbia River Gorge. And for you, the Gift of Luxury Lodging

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Choose a Hood River Bed and Breakfast while visiting the Columbia River Gorge and the Holiday Market

Find the best hand-made crafts and one-of-a-kind gifts at the 2009 Hood River Holiday Market.

This four day event is your opportunity to find the perfect gift for your loved ones or even for yourself! You'll find 30+ vendors providing unique items, that you can't find anywhere else, all gathered in one place.

Holiday Market hours are 9am to 4pm on November 21, 22 and November 28, 29 at Westside Elementary School, 3685 Belmont Drive, Hood River.

Lakecliff Bed and Breakfast overlooking the Columbia River Gorge

While visiting Hood River let the Bed and Breakfast Inns of the scenic Columbia River Gorge area provide all your lodging needs. The 80 miles from Portland to The Dalles is filled with the spectacular scenery of the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway and over 20 wineries. We invite you to stay at a Gorge B&B for a memorable and fun-filled vacation. Visit the Columbia Gorge Winegrower website for a complete list of wineries and events this coming weekend and the Open Houses scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend.

Wy'East Vineyards ~ November 21:
Harvest Dinner – If you enjoyed Dine amongst the Vines, then you will love this Harvest Dinner! Fabulous 5 course meal with our special food pairings, and soon to be released 2008 Pinot Noirs and Cloud Cap.

Naked Winery ~ November 21
Artisan Cheese and Fruit Pairing all weekend long, plus live music! Friday Night - Jazz Music by Baz Trio, 7-10pm, Saturday Night - Blues by The Strangetones, 7-10pm, Music by Swing Crew on Sunday from 5-7pm

Less crowds, friendly innkeepers, and the perfect gift for everyone on your list. And for you, the gift of a comfy beds and the lavish pampering the innkeepers of the Columbia River Gorge will provide.

Hood River's most Delicious Destination Celebrating 20 years

Wednesday, September 30, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Apple Valley Country Store in the Hood River Valley of Oregon

Apple Valley Country Store in Hood River Oregon is celebrating its 20th year as one of Hood River’s favorite visitor attractions. Located in the midst of picturesque orchards, forests and farmlands, our family has been making homemade jams, jellies, and pies in the store's kitchen for over 20 years.

During the month of October you will be treated to some delicious treats as the Wright family cooks up pies, jams, jellies, dumplings and more. Crisps and turnovers are baked only on special event weekends such at the two coming up in October.

Pumpkin Pie at the Apple Valley Country Store near Hood River lodging

October 16-18 is the Fall Harvest Festival Celebration and Country BBQ. A variety of desserts featuring Pear Dumplings and Apple Crisp, Pumpkin milkshakes, cobblers and more. Sample some of the Vanilla Pear jam or a few of the other 50+varieties made on site.

October 24-25 - Heirloom Apple Butter Festival and Country BBQ. Come stir the huge copper pots as the family makes apple butter the old-fashioned way, over an open fire. Enjoy fried bisquits with fresh apple and pear butter all day.

Aple Butter the Old-Fashioned way at the Apple Valley Country Store

Come and enjoy the fall in the Hood River Valley and Columbia River Gorge. The warm days and cool nights added to the events, fall foliage and harvest aromas are sure to present something for all your senses.

The innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild use many of the abundant fruits in the Hood River Valley to serve up amazing Oregon Bounty breakfasts. We'll activate your taste buds and send you off to explore and taste more! Come up during the week, take the road less traveled and enjoy much of the same tantalizing treats.

Hood River Hops Fest and Columbia River Gorge Lodging

Monday, September 28, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Mark your calendars for the 6th Annual Hood River Hops Fest, Saturday, October 3, 2009.

The event runs from noon to 9 p.m. in downtown Hood River, in the spacious parking area between Cascade and Columbia Streets.

More that 20 Northwest brewers are expected to attend, each providing one favorite brew, plus a fresh-hopped brew just for the event.

Admission is free. Wristbands and tasting mugs for those 21 and over run $5. Taste tokens good for a 4-ounce pour run $1 each.

Plan to attend this fun filled event and make your reservations early at a Hood River Oregon bed and breakfast of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. Many to choose from, some within walking distance of the festivities.

An Oregon Bed and Breakfast ~ a perfect home base to tour, explore and taste

Wednesday, August 26, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Labor Day Weekend in Oregon, so much to do, so many wonderful back-roads and places to explore. How about some wine tours?

Chehalem Mountains Wingrowers and AVA of the Willamette Valley Explore, Tour & Taste through the Chehalem Mountains and Ribbon Ridge. Participating member wineries and vineyards of the Chehalem Mountains Winegrowers - including those rarely open to the public - will offer special activities during the weekend. Visit the website for a full list of events.

Chehalem Ridge Bed and Breakfast
The Willamette Valley, Oregon's leading wine region has two-thirds of the state's wineries and vineyards and is home to more than 200 wineries. It has been recognized as one of the premier Pinot noir producing areas in the world.

With 24 Bed and Breakfasts of the Oregon Guild in the Willamette Valley you have many lodging options

Columbia Gorge Winegrowers
Join the Columbia Gorge Wine Growers for a day long field trip to examine the geology of the Columbia Gorge and the terriors of vineyards in this wonderful wine-growing region. Terrior involves the complex interplay of climate, soils, geology, and other biophysical factors that influence the character and quality of wine grapes and the wine made from those grapes. Tour Columbia Gorge Vineyards and Wineries

the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast for Mt Hood Lodging

You have many lodging options for Columbia Gorge Lodging but none more accommodating than a Mt Hood Bed and Breakfast in the Columbia River Gorge.

No matter where you plan to spend the Labor Day Weekend holiday there is an Oregon Bed and Breakfast innkeeper ready to make your last weekend of summer a relaxing and enjoyable one.

A Tourist in our own Valley - The Hood River Valley Oregon

Monday, August 17, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Last weekend I was out and about. Driving the Fruit Loop, a 35 miles driving tour through Oregon's Hood River Valley's orchards, forests, farmlands, and friendly communities. "Sample delicious fruits and take your favorites home, visit a winery, experience fields of fragrant lavender, meet adorable alpacas, savor delicious baked goods, and create memories by participating in family activities hosted at Fruit Loop locations throughout the year."

The newly completed Mt Hood Winery and Event Center.

I attended the grand opening of the new Mt Hood Winery. Linda Barber was kind enough to take me on a tour of the facility. The 8000 square foot Tasting Room facility built with event hosting in mind. A conference room, large meeting hall, a private dressing room. They thought of everything. Surrounded by newly planted vineyard the winery has breathtaking views of Mt Hood and the Hood River Valley.

The view of Mt Hood from inside the tasting room of the new Mt Hood Winery

The Fruit Loop is just an hour away from Oregon's largest city, Portland. Located in the national scenic area called the Columbia River Gorge, and the nation's largest pear-growing region, this is one of the few places that offers the complete experience of growing, producing, and then enjoying fruit and wine.

Then it was off to stroll through the dahlia fields of the Gorge White House. I'm not sure how many varieties there are but there are a lot! From a field map you can identify the ones you would like to order for your own garden. They also have an spectacular showing of glads this year along with fragrant oriental lilies. Pick up a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to brighten your home.

The dahlias of the Gorge White House in the valley near Mt Hood

My last stop was at Packer Family Orchards and Bakery. The bakers use pear in just about every one of their products. By using pear concentrate, they have reduced or in some cases, eliminated the need for refined sugar in many of their recipes! Enjoy the sweet taste even more, knowing that their products make for a healthier alternative. I went in for some fresh peaches, so juicy and sweet, and one of their giant cherry/white chocolate cookie. Ended up with that one and the macaroon and one other that had an amazing lemon flavor.

The Hood River Valley and the Fruit Loop is just an hour away from Oregon's largest city, Portland. Located in one of the nation's largest pear-growing region, this is one of the few places that offers the complete experience of growing, producing, and then enjoying fruit and wine.

The harvest season is in full swing. Stay at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast inn and enjoy the fall season in the Hood River Valley.

Sunflowers and Gravensteins ~ An August Spectacular in the Hood River Valley

Saturday, August 1, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

At Rasmussens Farm
Aug 8 & 9 and continuing through August. Celebrating 60 kinds of sunflowers – Perfect opportunity to paint, cut, take photos and enjoy the many colors of summer. Reservations suggested for photo clubs or art groups. Kick-off weekend features live music, wine tasting from Hood River Vineyards, vegetable games, and a treasure hunt. Quilt show and sale, art show and sale. Come paint, take photos, cut bouquets, and enjoy through the whole month of August. Covered picnic area.

Gravenstein Apple Days August 22 & 23. Kick-off the fall fruit season with our favorite pie apple. At Rasmussen Farms, fresh cider, Gravenstein Apple Pie, and recipes. Also, family activities, featuring a Pie Walk, Chicken Dance, and live music in the afternoons. Opening of the Corn Maze.

The Gravenstein Apple of the Hood River Valley

Gravenstein season is short and the Hood River Valley Fruit Loop celebrates the harvest each year with a weekend full of special activities. Come enjoy family activities including BBQs, U-pick, baby alpacas, apple dumplings, apple jam and more. Visit the Fruit Loop website for a complete list of harvest events and begin planning your adventure today.

Apple Valley's Huckleberry Jam & Country BBQ ~ August 15-16
Huckleberry and music lovers come together to celebrate the wild huckleberry harvest. Listen to live music Saturday Aug 15 from 12–5 while enjoying a BBQ lunch (cherry-wood smoked ribs, pulled pork and chicken sandwiches, all served with cider baked beans and pear coleslaw). Huckleberry cobbler, crisps, turnovers, milkshakes, pies, and more.

Gravenstein Apples at Cody Orchards ~ August 22-23
Orchard tours, cider pressing, BQ, children's activities and home made apple desserts.

Mt Hood In Focus at Aubert Fruit Company ~ August 29-30
Come and enjoy Hood River Valley art. This is an opportunity to meet some of the valley's local artists and view their art.

From August till the snow flys in November, the fruit stands of the Hood River Valley will be open with over 30 varieties of apples and pears to purchase and sample. The Hood River Valley is just an hour away from Portland. Located in the national scenic area of the Columbia River Gorge, and the nation's largest pear-growing region, this is one of the few places that offers the complete experience of growing, producing, and then enjoying fruit and wine.

A Mt Hood Bed and Breakfast, the Flying Jenny

Fall is an amazing season to visit. Warm days and cool nights make for perfect weather to taste the harvest and enjoy the fall foliage. Why not stay a few days to take it all in? The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild has 13 member inns ready to provide the perfect Mt Hood Bed and Breakfast.

Take a Step Back in Time at the WAAAM Museum in Hood River Oregon

Wednesday, June 3, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Naval Aircraft Factory N3N-3 Seaplane - 1940

Nestled in the Hood River valley along the Columbia River Gorge you will find the opportunity to step back in time and see life as it was in the era of early flight and transportation. The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM) is a living museum dedicated to preserving transportation's golden past. WAAAM honors the memory of early aviators from the first and second war, barnstormers, air mail and early transportation.

WAAAM is proud to have the largest known collection of flying 3 cylinder radial engine aircraft. Within the next year we hope to have the largest collection of flying OX-5 Aircraft. We currently have 5 flying with one more being restored in the next year. One of our OX-5 flying aircraft is a very rare and very original 1917 Curtiss JN4D Jenny. This museum fleet includes many other flying antique aircraft making it one of the largest flying in the world today. This museum also brings a unique and rare collection of other Aircraft, Automobiles, Propellers, Aircraft Engines, Aircraft Instruments, Military Jeeps, Tools of War and other interesting artifacts.

While visiting the Columbia River Gorge choose an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inn, The Flying Jenny, for Hood River Oregon lodging.

The Flying Jenny Bed and Breakfast for Hood River Lodging.

Located within two miles of the new WAAAM museum, The Flying Jenny Bed and Breakfast provides a calm repast for the weary pilot. This unique Bed and Breakfast serves up a generous portion of aviation History along with comfortable rooms and a personalized breakfast. Pilots can reminisce in their choice of the Piper Cub Room, The Robin's Nest, The Waco Room, or the Glenn Curtiss Special.

Don't miss WAAAM's biggest event of the year. The 3rd annual WAAAM Fly-in will be held September 11-13 at the Hood River Ken Jernstedt Airfield. Many of the museum planes are flown around the Hood River Valley. Plane rides, Food, Activities and more.

Being the tourist in the Columbia River Gorge

Tuesday, May 26, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

I checked out for a couple of days. Our son was visiting from California and we played the tourist, enjoying the cool breezes and warm sunshine in the Columbia River Gorge this past Memorial Weekend.

Mt Hood from the beer gardens of Elliott Glacier Brew Pub in Parkdale Oregon

He arrived on Saturday afternoon and of course the first thing we like to do is walk over to the Elliot Glacier Brew Pub for a pint and to take in the awesome views of Mt Hood from their beer garden.

Then it was UFC 98 on the big screen at our Mt Hood Bed and Breakfast, the Old Parkdale Inn.

Sunday morning we had a wonderful breakfast of Flaxseed-Apple Battered French Toast with Raspberry compote. I do love when our son visits as he is vegan and I can test new recipes for use when our vegan guests stay with us. This recipe came from the Millennium Cookbook and it is certainly a keeper.

The Twin Tunnels of the Historic Columbia River Highway

Then off toward The Dalles to visit nonni. But first a hike along the Historic Columbia River Highway, outside Mosier, and a stroll through the Twin Tunnels. (I blogged about this last week) The views of the Columbia River Gorge are quite amazing, especially this time of year when the hills are quite green and painted with wildflowers. We even had a great vantage point, looking down into the nest of an Osprey Falcon. What a room with a view they have!

A room with a Columbia River View for these Osprey Falcons

After visiting Nonni (that's grandma in our Italian family) we crossed the Columbia River and took a little side trip to Horsethief Lake to see the Native American Petroglyphs and Pictographs that were saved from the rising waters behind The Dalles Dam.

We drove back to Hood River via Highway 14 which is on the Washington side of the Columbia, crossing back over on the Steel Bridge just west of Bingen, Washington. Another great view of Hood River with Mt. Hood rising up in the background. Our next stop was Full Sail Brewery for a pint and a couple souvenir pint glasses, and of course a sampling of the new LTD 03. Full Sail is an employer owned brewery celebrating their 21st in Hood River.

Laurance Lake in the Mt Hood National Forest just minutes from the Old Parkdale Inn

Monday morning we took the kids for a ride to share our playground, Laurance Lake and the Mt Hood National Forest, just minutes from the Old Parkdale Inn. The views of Mt Hood from this man made last are spectacular and we sat for a few and watched the fisherman fly fish from both boats, no motors, and the shore. No live bait or hooks allowed. A very serene setting.

Our son left us for a few hours to tour the Fruit Loop, visiting a few wineries, the Apple Valley Store for some of their wonderful jams and jellies and then to the new Waterfront Park in Hood River to watch the windsurfers and kite boarders on the Columbia River. We met up with them for a stroll through the downtown, a stop at Gorge Dog for Tilly treats and then dinner at 3 Rivers Grill.

Riding the world famous winds of the Columbia River Gorge

They are packing up now and I will spend the day getting the Old Parkdale Inn cleaned up and ready for our next round of guests. Hope to see you soon so we can share our favorite spots in the Columbia River Gorge with you.

Memorial Weekend Wine Events in the Columbia River Gorge

Thursday, May 21, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Come visit the unique Wine Growing region of the Columbia Gorge

The winegrowers of the Columbia River Gorge invite you for a weekend in the Gorge. Straddling the mighty Columbia River, the Columbia Gorge Growing Region includes the fertile soils of both Washington and Oregon and intimate tasting rooms are open and featuring new releases, vineyard tours, horseback riding, artisinal treats, live music and more! Here are just a sampling of events and activities this Memorial Weekend in the Columbia River Gorge. For a list of all winery events visit the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Association website

Enjoy the warm abiance in the tasting room of Pheasant

Pheasant Valley Winery ~ Hood River ~ Come early for authentic Hawaiian BBQ provided by Reed Acol Catering (Sat. & Sun. only). Be among the first to sample our new release 2007 Tempranillo. Partake in barrel tasting and a tour of Hood River’s first and only organic vineyard

Phelps Creek Vineyards~ Hood River ~ Great wine begins in the vineyard! Join us for our 4th Annual Vineyard Open House. Come tour our spectacular hillsides planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with vigneron Bob Morus or go for a hayride through the vines

Cathedral Ridge Winery ~ Hood River ~ On Saturday May 23 we will be joined by Mountain Shadow Natural Meats for a Burgundy, Beef, Brats and Blues event from 1 - 4pm. Live music by The Connally Group

Dry Hollow Vineyards ~ The Dalles ~ Dry Hollow Vineyards celebrates the release of its white wines: Vin Blanc de Table, featuring Sauvignon Blanc, Smith-Cerne Vineyard, and 2008 Chardonnay, McDuffee Vineyard. Horseback rides around the vineyard, weather permitting.

So much to see and a long weekend make for the perfect time to visit. Choose a unique Oregon bed and breakfast over a Columbia River Gorge hotel and let the bed and breakfast inns of the scenic gorge area provide all your lodging needs. The 80 miles from Portland to The Dalles is filled with the spectacular scenery of the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway and over 20 wineries. With majestic Mt Hood visible from many locations, the many activities and a stay at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast inn you are sure to have a memorable and fun-filled getaway.

The Historic Columbia River Highway Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead and Mosier Oregon

Friday, May 15, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Historic Columbia River Highway

Traversing between Hood River and Mosier, the five mile section of the Historic Columbia River Highway passes through the Twin Tunnels and two climate zones and being closed to auto traffic is an amazing trail for hikers, bikers, rollerbladers, anyone human powered. Starting at the east Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead near Mosier, the trail leads through semi-arid terrain dotted with ponderosa pine for about a mile until you reach the Twin Tunnels. Spectacular geologic formations tell the story of the gorge's creation.

After passing through the tunnels, you'll emerge into a forest of fir trees and other common western Oregon plants. Viewpoints along the 3.5 mile segment from the tunnels to the west Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead overlook the river.

Mosier, Oregon

An alternative to Columbia River Gorge Hotels, the Mosier House Bed and Breakfast

Mosier is situated between The Dalles and Hood River in Oregon's stunning Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, just 65 easy miles east of Portland on Interstate 84. Jefferson Mosier built his home in 1904 on a hill overlooking Mosier. In the late 1980's the house, which had been exposed to years of neglect, was purchased. After several years of extensive remodeling and restoration, the house is now the Mosier House Bed and Breakfast, and a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. The Mosier House Bed and Breakfast sits amidst gardens, a creek and a pond that overlook the town.

10-Speed Coffee is a roastery and pair of cafes in Hood River and Mosier, Oregon. They have earned a devoted following for their small batch roasted, single origin coffees and expertly crafted espresso drinks.

For fine dining try the Good River Restaurant , sits up on the hill overlooking the quaint town of Mosier and the Columbia River. Good River serves up delicious meals prepared with the freshest ingredients partially supplied by farmers in the Columbia River Gorge. The lovingly restored building next door is now the The Thirsty Woman, an independent pub, support many brewery's and may have as many as twelve brews on tap from brewery's as Stone Brewing, Walking Man, Terminal Gravity, Double Mountain, Abbot's and more. Their taps are constantly changing.

Visit the town of Mosier and the Mosier House Bed and Breakfast for an quiet alternative to big Columbia River Gorge Hotels. After a hearty breakfast head off to the Mark Hatfield Trailhead and a hike, or bike, on the Historic Columbia River Highway.

The Mt Hood Cycling Classic comes to the Columbia River Gorge

Friday, May 8, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

A scenic stage of the Mt Hood Cycling Classic

The Mt Hood Cycling Classic is back for its 7th year, coming to the Columbia River Gorge June 3rd-7th. The race features stages through the Gorge, the Upper Hood River Valley, and the Mt Hood National Forest and has been described by experienced international racers as some of the most beautiful they’ve ever ridden.

This event is not just for those that are racing. Spectators are given an opportunity to see the action first hand. Food, fun and music greet those who come to watch the action. Spectators have an opportunity to see some of the best racing in the Northwest as the riders compete for one of the richest prize purses around. The time trials give onlookers an opportunity to see just how fast and aerodynamic the riders can be.

Cyclers make their way past the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast

The criterium seems to be a definite crowd favorite. The race will be conducted in the twilight hours on Saturday. Spectators are able to get to within inches of the riders as they lean into the corners at break neck speeds. Thrills chills and some monster spills will keep the crowd glued to the action

The Columbia River Gorge and Hood River hotels fill up fast as 500 riders begin registration. Make your reservation at one of the 11 Oregon Bed and Breakfast inns in the Hood River Area, come up enjoy the race and the Columbia River Gorge.

Hood River Organics - A Community Supported Agriculture Coop in the Columbia River Gorge

Wednesday, May 6, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

It is all about the food. I am so excited to have just signed up with Hood River Organics. This CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Coop will bring fresh, locally grown, organic food to my front porch! Each week throughout the year the participating farms work with multiple other farmers and producers in the Columbia River Gorge area to put together a box of the most delicious, healthy, seasonal food. Did I mention it will be delivered to my door?

Slow food is an idea, a way of living and a way of eating. It is a global, grassroots movement with thousands of members around the world that links the pleasure of food with a commitment to community and the environment.

Local Harvest - real food, real farmers, real community - Over the last 20 years, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) has become a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. Use the map on the Local Harvest Website to find a small farm near you.

Slow food, local harvest, and a commitment to sustainable business practices. These all make for sustainable travel and the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild has implemented a Green Program that encourages and recognizes those inns that are making sustainable travel a reality.

The Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast near Mt Hood Oregon

The Old Parkdale Inn is proud to be a member of the Green Program of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. Located at the base of Mt Hood and in the heart of the Hood River Valley, we have been supporting our local farmers for 6 years now. Our farmers grow crops of apples to blueberries, pears to strawberries. Potatoes, greens, onions, all the wonderful fruits and vegies that go into our daily breakfasts. We are so very excited to now have our box of fresh produce delivered to our door once a week. And I'm sure our guests will be, too.

Columbia Gorge Fiddle Contest - this weekend in the Hood River Valley

Friday, May 1, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Hood River Middle School in beautiful Hood River Oregon

Starting today, May 1, and running through the weekend, the 2nd Annual Columbia Gorge Fiddle Contest is an event filled with music for all ages.

May 1-3
Hood River Middle School
1602 May Street
Hood River Oregon
Friday Night: Concert
Saturday: Fiddle and Acoustic Contest
Ukulele and Tenor Guitar Raffle Drawing

Come enjoy an evening concert or listen to some of the nation’s best contest fiddlers as well as fresh new talent and acoustic pickers to impromptu jams. For those who like to play together, or jam, there are plenty of places to gather a group large or small.

Majestic Mt Hood showing off its winter coat!

It is sure to be a lovely weekend in the Valley with 15,000 + acres of fruit trees in bloom. Step out from the fiddle contest activities and take a scenic 35 mile drive, the Fruit Loop, through the valley, meandering through orchards and quaint communities. The wildflowers are amazing this time of year in the Columbia River Gorge.

We of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild have plenty of beds for your tired heads. Come out, enjoy the beauty, the music and the food being offered up this weekend in the Hood River Valley. With majestic Mt Hood as a backdrop you are sure to have a weekend for all the senses

Stay at Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inn and Tee off at an Oregon Golf Course

Wednesday, April 22, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

OK. I guess its time to put away the snowshoes and skies and bring out the golf clubs and then try to decide where to golf. I went to Travel Oregon's website to find "a few" courses to blog about and I found well over a hundred!!

The OregonGolf.com website "provides the most comprehensive information on public and private golf courses". And with Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inns located in every region we would like to encourage you to "Explore Oregon and Win" while you tee off across the state.

Bend Oregon Lodging and beyond. The golf courses of Central Oregon are well known but what about the ones in Enterprise or John Day?

There are far too many courses in the Willamette Valley, including the Portland area, to count! And between the Oregon Inns in the Willamette Valley and Portland regions plenty of beds to accommodate. The map also includes courses near Mt Hood so I include a link to inns in the Columbia River Gorge

Eugene is really considered the southern part of the Willamette Valley but the golf map includes it and those near Ashland Oregon Lodging

The Oregon Coast has many world renowned courses and many bed and breakfasts to drop your clubs after a sunny day on the course

Indian Creek Golf Course, Hood River Oregon

Was that too much information? You really can have a golf vacation in Oregon, teeing off at some of the best courses in the country, staying at quality bed and breakfasts, while participating in "Explore Oregon and Win".

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Innkeepers Come from across the state

Wednesday, April 15, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Oregon Innkeepers came from both sides of our fine state.

This past week we had the 2009 Annual meeting of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild and every Oregon region was represented. From the Eastern region to the Oregon Coast, from Portland to Crater Lake, the Willamette Valley to Mt Hood and the Columbia River Gorge and of course from Central Oregon where our gathering took place.

The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is 88 members strong and counting. As a professional association of Oregon's individually operated Bed and Breakfast inn, our mission is to assure travelers of consistently high standards in a variety of accommodations.

The annual meeting was held at the Best Western Ponderosa Lodge in beautiful Sisters and we would like to thank Sandy Affonso, innkeeper of the Blue Spruce B&B, for her enthusiasm while planning this event.

Roundtable discussions were ongoing at the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild's Annual Meeting

The Oregon Guild supports our members through networking, advocacy and education. Workshops included information on our Association programs. The Green Certification program of the Guild is designed to make sustainable travel a reality in Oregon. The OBBG blog is written by our innkeepers promoting our inns and our state as a tourist destination and we will provide our members the tools needed for them to become guest bloggers.

Time is always set aside for roundtable discussion with topics from marketing to networking. From scones to gardening.

A representative from Travel Oregon will present a report on the partnerships between OBBG and the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon), the Oregon tourism force. We have partnered with Travel Oregon in promotions such as Oregon Bounty, the Central Cascades GeoTourism Project and Oregon 150

This gathering lasted only a day and a half but our innkeepers return home fueled with enthusiastic ideas to make your stay at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild a truly memorable experience.

"I just love this group... just too much talent..
my brain is strained.... I try too absorb as much as possible..."

Ski Mt Hood this Spring Break on Discount Lift Tickets from Participating Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inns

Tuesday, March 31, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Spring skiing on Mt Hood is going to be awesome at least through May. More snow is on the way this weekend and Mt Hood Meadows Ski Resort offers discounted lift tickets to guests staying at participating Hood River area lodging properties. And many of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast inns in the Columbia Gorge and the Hood River Valley welcome our destination guests who can purchase their discount lift tickets directly from our innkeepers. The cost of these tickets are only $35 for adults and $30 for juniors ages 7-14. Visit the Hood River page of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild website for a list of our inns. Make sure you ask if they are a Destination Program participant. Book your room and leave the rest to us. We will get you settled in for a comfortable nights sleep, serve fresh coffee and a hearty breakfast in the morning, issue your discount lift ticket and point you in the direction of Mt Hood Meadows Ski Resort, 34 miles from the town of Hood River and only 19 miles from Mt. Hood/Parkdale.
Why stay in a Columbia River Gorge hotel when you can stay at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast in Hood River, Mt Hood or Parkdale and have your scones and lift tickets, too!

Enjoy "Passport to Wine" by staying at a Columbia River Gorge Bed and Breakfast

Wednesday, March 18, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Spring in the Columbia River Gorge is amazing and what better way to enjoy the spectacular scenery and the unique wines of the federally designated grape-growing region of the Columbia Gorge Appellation than to join us for Passport to Wine, March 27-29.

This is an exciting opportunity to sample the best that the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers have to offer. Passport holders will be entitled to a variety of benefits, including special reserve tastings, wine discounts, case discounts and more.

"Nestled within and just beyond the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area sits a wine region like not other. Tour our wineries, relax in our casual tasting rooms and discover A World of Wine in 40 Miles."

Passports are still available for $15 and can be purchased on-line, at Gorge area wineries, and at select Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Inns.

Innkeepers for Oregon Wine Country Lodging have even volunteered to drive our registered guests to the tour start location and back to your inn safely. Some are offering special promotions for Passport Weekend

~ Old Parkdale Inn
~ Mt. Hood Hamlet
~ Sakura Ridge Lodge

The Columbia Gorge Winegrowers and our Hood River Oregon Innkeepers ask you to taste responsibly and please, "Do not Drink and Drive". Instead contact Martin's Gorge Tours and book your Passport To Wine winery tour.

The View Point Inn holds a DVD release party for "Twlight"--March 21, 2009--hurry as there aren't many tickets left!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009 by Heather Tyreman

The View Point Inn in Corbett, Oregon, one of the last historic Columbia River Gorge hotels, was a filming location for "Twlight." Remember the prom scene where Bella danced with Edward?

You can share in the excitement. Come dine and celebrate the DVD release at the actual filming location of the Prom Scene and the End of the movie. The DVD Release Party is scheduled for March 21, 2009 at 5 p.m. Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and the movie begins immediately after dinner.

Enjoy a multi-course Twilight-inspired meal, including the famous eternal love cake.

Immediately after dinner, the DVD will premiere on large screens set up in the same room where Bella and Edward danced at the prom.

The few remaining tickets are $50 per person and includes dinner, screening of the DVD, non-alcoholic beverages and a special gift. At the $125 level, you'll receive dinner and beverages, the screening of the movie, and a brick in the Twlight Walk of Fame (part of the The View Point Inn's gardens), a Twilight flashlight and commemorative T-shirt.

To make your reservation or for more information, contact The View Point Inn at (503) 695-5811, or email here.

And while you're at it, ask whether any of the four guestrooms are still available at this historic Columbia River Gorge hotel. They don't claim to have ghosts inhabiting The View Point Inn, but after dinner and a movie you might see a few friendly apparitions!

Innkeepers on the Road: Exploring one of the last Scenic Columbia River Gorge Hotels

Saturday, February 28, 2009 by Heather Tyreman

The View Point Inn, romantic getaway Oregon in the Columbia River National Scenic Corridor. Images provided by The View Point Inn and copyrights reserved.

One of the great things about being a member of the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild is visiting other OBBG members. Bill & I wrapped up a week of exploration in the Oregon Wine Country with a visit to another Oregon romantic getaway, The View Point Inn. Towering high above the Columbia River Gorge, The View Point Inn is only minutes' drive uphill from the Vista House at Crown Point, a familiar Oregon landmark, and just off I-84 at the Corbett exit. It's one of the old Columbia River Gorge hotels in the process of loving restoration.

We stopped for lunch as The View Point Inn is both a fine dining restaurant and one of the newest Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild members. We felt right at home with contractors in the parking lot. The inn is wrapping up reconstruction after a kitchen fire in December 2008. Even with the temporarily limited menu, Bill & I ate well and at reasonable prices.

My Caprese Salad featured freshly made mozarella cheese and basil so fresh and concentrated I thought it was summertime. Bill's Classic Caesar Salad was unusually presented and delicious. We split an entree--the Draper Roasted Breast of Fowl served with spinach, balsamic vinaigrette and roasted fingerling potatoes. We can hardly wait until they reopen their full service menu!

Chanticleer Room at The View Point Inn along the Historic Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway. All rights to photos reserved by The View Point Inn.

Before leaving we toured the inn's four guestrooms. The Roosevelt Suite is named for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, a frequent guest of the inn. Many Hollywood movie stars and European royalty have dined or stayed at The View Point Inn. If walls could talk. . .

The View Point Inn is also filling a gap as one of the outstanding Oregon wedding sites--particular important with the recent closure of the Columbia Gorge Hotel.

We imagined bring a group of Portland Oregon friends out for an evening of fine dining and lodging here at one of the last historic Columbia River Gorge hotels. What fun it could be!

We thank operations manager Dan and owner Geoff for the outstanding service, gracious hospitality and wonderful food. Back on the road to Joseph Oregon and our Eastern Oregon Bed & Breakfast. . .

Bed, Breakfast and Bike the Columbia River Gorge, the Hood River Valley, and the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway

Saturday, February 28, 2009 by Mary Pellegrini

Bike the Columbia River Gorge, the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway, the Willamette Valley and have a comfy bed and and hearty breakfast at an bed and breakfast along the way. A Bed and Breakfast offers so much more than a hotel. Oregon innkeepers know the best back roads, the best places to eat, the scenic attactions you won't want to miss. You determine how far you want to go in one day. The whole adventure is about 200 miles and you'll discover why those arriving in Oregon on the Oregon Trail called this place "paradise".

When starting and ending your trek choose a Guild member inn for your Portland Oregon Lodging. A Painted Lady Inn, located in Northeast Portland provides a calm oasis in the heart of Portland. Use the Columbia Gorge Bike Map to determine

A Painted Lady, Portland Oregon Lodging, located in northeast Portland, would be a great starting point for your bike tour through the Columbia River Gorge

your pace for adventure through the Gorge. And use the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild website to choose an inn for a well deserved respose.

The View Point Inn, on the Historic Columbia River Highway, offers an alternative to Columbia River Gorge Hotels, and panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge

Your first stop might be The View Point Inn in Corbett, Oregon with panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. Then on to Hood River where you'll find many inns to choose from.

The Hood River BnB is located on Oak Street, the original route of the Historic Columbia River Hwy and is a perfect choice over a Hood River Oregon Hotel

The route of the Historic Columbia River Highway takes you into the town of Hood River, Oregon, right down Oak Street and to the The Hood River BnB. Once settled in, walk downtown for dinner and a brew.

After a

With so many side roads loops you might consider spending an extra day at the Mt. Hood Hamlet for a true Mt. Hood Bed and Breakfast experience

hearty breakfast begin your trek around Mt. Hood by traveling Hwy 35 south through the Hood River Valley. This is a steady climb with spectacular views of Mt. Hood. Located only 13 miles from Hood River, in the Upper Hood River Valley, the Mt. Hood Hamlet could be home base for exploring the many side loops in the Upper Hood River Valley, filled with family farms and friendly communities.

Be pampered and enjoy a well deserved soak at the Brightwood Guest House, a perfect Mt. Hood Bed and Breakfast expeirence.

Continue on around Mt Hood and junction with Hwy 26. Travel west to check into the Brightwood Guest House for a true Oregon Lodging experience surrounded by fir and cedar trees. Take a well deserved soak in the hotub on the deck.

For Portland Oregon Bed and Breakfast hospitality choose the Fulton House Bed and Breakfast

Head back toward Portland through the pastoral, rolling hills of the eastern Willamette Valley....final destination, Fulton House B&B, and be prepared for Portland Bed and Breakfast hospitality.

A bike tour around Oregon's highest mountain, Mt. Hood, will spark your sense of adventure, invigorate your spirit and nourish your soul with stays at the Mt. Hood and Portland regional inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. Our innkeepers would even arrange for your personals to be shuttled to your destinations.