The Historic Columbia River Highway Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead and Mosier House Bed and Breakfast

Wednesday, April 10, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

The Mosier Tunnel of the Historic Columbia River HighwayHistoric 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 and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.  Viewpoints along the 3.5 mile segment from the tunnels to the west Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead overlook the river.  Consider a stay at an inspected and approved B&B in the Mt Hood and The Columbia River Gorge Region, just minutes from the Historic Mosier Tunnels 

Get to know Oregon like a local from the locals, the 100+ hosts of our member inns located in all of Oregon's regions. 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.

Late Winter Storms in the Mt Hood National Forest Make for Some Great Spring Snow Adventures

Monday, April 8, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

Snow shoe the Mt Hood National ForestEvery time another storm comes through the Columbia River Gorge and into the Mt Hood National Forest we say, "This has got to be the last one".  And then comes another.  Seems like Winter and Spring are playing a bit of tug-a-war and we are hoping winter holds on a bit longer.  
  
The ski resort on Oregon's tallest peak, Mt Hood, have received about 15 inches of new snow in the last 24 hours.  All this is making for some awesome spring conditions on Mt Hood and in the Mt Hood National Forest. Take advantage of these longer, warmer days of Winter and the substantial snow pack to explore the back-country side of Mt. Hood, just minutes from Hood River Oregon and the member inns there of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  No Sno-Park passes needed after April 15 and you'll find no crowds, the trails less traveled, great spring snow adventures and an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inn.  What more do you need?

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

Monday, April 8, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

The Old Parkdale Inn, Mt. Hood Bed and Breakfast

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,  April 12-14, 2013

A Columbia River Gorge Hotel awaits you this spring.

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.

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. 

Hood River Blossom Festival and Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inns

Saturday, April 6, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

Mt Hood, blooming orchards and beehives near a Mt Hood Bed and Breakfast - photo by Mary PellegriniIn the Hood River Valley 15,000+ acres pears, apples, cherries and other fruit, will burst into blossom this month.  It is a true sign of sping as we dust the snow off our back steps. 

Blossom Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with a full plate of events from BBQs, to arts and craft shows, to antique sales. 

You won't want to miss the Blossom Fest Quilt Show with some 80-100 beautiful handmade quilts will be on display, many for sale.  Another can't miss event is the Dessert Party at the Apple Valley Country Store.  A variety of desserts, jams and jellies, all made with fresh local fruit, will be available.

Start your day at one of the many Oregon Bed and Breakfasts near Mt. Hood and the Columbia Gorge with a breakfast prepared from fresh local products.  Ginger baked pears, fresh Blueberry Scones, Apple Quiche, we're talking Northwest Culinary breakfasts!

With Nine Unique Inns in OBBG's Mt Hood Region to choose from this will only be one of the hard choices you'll face on a weekend of events for all the senses.

Take the scenic 35 mile Fruit Loop through the valley's orchards, forests, farmlands, and friendly communities.

Just want to sit back and relax?  The Mt Hood Railroad travels through thousands of acres of orchards in blossom and has a layover in Parkdale and the Art and Music Festival.  Enjoy live music and art in the park while taking in stunning views of Mt. Hood.

Visit us in the Hood River Valley at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inn and prove to yourself that spring has definitely arrived!!

A Two Sports, or more, Season near Mt Hood Bed and Breakfasts

Thursday, April 4, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

The Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast in the Hood River Valley

This is the time of year when you can actually enjoy two completely different outdoor adventures in one day.  Mt Hood Bed and Breakfasts and the Hood River Valley allows for this pretty much all year long but it is so apparent in the Spring.  How about some Spring Skiing on Mt Hood then windsurfing on the Columbia River?  Or biking?  Or hiking?  You can do it all!

The Old Parkdale Inn is are located in the beautiful Hood River Valley.  After a rejuvenating night at the inn and a hearty Northwest breakfast you'll be ready to head up to Mt Hood Meadows for awesome spring skiing conditions.  Or perhaps some cross country or snowshoeing in the morning before the sun warms the snow?  Come back to the inn, grab a bite of lunch, change gear, then head on down to the Gorge as the afternoon winds pick up for some ideal windsurfing conditions on the Columbia River.

Or bring your bikes for a grand afternoon bike tour along the Fruit Loop.  The combination of sports is certainly flexible and we are sure you can have it all!!  Get to know Oregon like a local from the locals, the 100+ hosts of our member inns located in all of Oregon's regions. 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.

 

Journey Through Time Scenic Byway - An Oregon Scenic Byway

Saturday, October 20, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

I just spent two days in Central Oregon on an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Lady Innkeepers Getaway.  Yes, we were able to escape our everyday innkeeping duties and relax with like minded gals of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  This year we journeyed to Wilson Ranches Retreat in Fossil, Oregon, a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  Perfect accommodations when traveling the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, the Ranch offers up true Oregon hospitality and an Old West Experience.

Enjoy an amazing horseback ride across the 9000 acre Wilson Ranch

The journey from my inn in the Hood River Valley to Fossil, Oregon, took me on a section of the 'Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.  Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state.  The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is the only State B&B Association and a welcoming inn awaits you as you travel the backroads.  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

'Uncommonly rich in history, this Byway reveals tales of pioneers, towns boonmed and busted, and creatures that wandered this terrain millions of years ago. The Journey Through Time Scenic Byway stretches 266 miles through north central to eastern Oregon.  Beginning in the community of Biggs and ending in Baker City, this Byway meaders through ghost towns and small farming communities that bring the Old West to life.  The 'Wild and Scenic' John Day River-North America's second longest undammed river-parallels muh of the routh, offering excellant rafting, fishing and camping.  Geology buffs-and anyone who's curious about fossils-will take great pleasure in the interpretive trails at the John Day Fossil Beds National Moument'

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.

Old Parkdale Inn B&B's Plum Upside Down Buttermilk Cake

Friday, October 19, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast Plum Upside Down Buttermilk CakeWe have three plum trees in the gardens of the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast, an alternative to a Hood River Oregon hotel.  The harvest has been Oregon Bounty style and the trees are loaded with fruit.  We've been making cakes and pastries as they come off the tree for the couple of weeks.  This Upside Down Cake has been well received by our guests at the breakfast table of the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast, a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.

Old Parkdale Inn Plum Upside Down Buttermilk Cake

Place 1/4 cup butter in 8" round baking pan and place in an oven preheating to 400º until melted.  While it heats prepare about 10 plums by slicing them into wedges, getting about 8-10 wedges per plum.  When the butter has melted swirl it around the pan.  I use a pastry brush to make sure the sides are buttered too.  Add 1/2 cup brown sugar, mix it well into the butter then arrange the plum wedges in rays around the pan.


Buttermilk Cake Batter:
1 cup flour
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ stick of butter, softened
¾ cup sugar
½ cup buttermilk
1 egg
½ tsp vanilla extract

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and set aside.  In another bowl, cream the butter and ¾ cup of sugar together, then add the vanilla extract, egg and buttermilk and whisk till smooth.  Add to flour mixture.  Stir until just combined.  Scrape the buttermilk cake batter onto the plum slices and smooth.  Bake for around 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Cool for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto serving platter.  We've been serving this Oregon Culinary Delight slightly warm with a dab of Greek yogurt and some sliced fresh plums as garnish

The Old Parkdale Inn Bed and BreakfastThe Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast is mid way between Hood River, the Columbia River Gorge and Mt Hood and is a unique inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  The inn, with Pacific Northwest decor, is at the foot of majestic Mt. Hood in the bountiful Hood River Valley, Parkdale, Oregon.  The perfect base for outdoor adventure or a quiet retreat.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast's Slow Food

Saturday, May 5, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

It's that time of year again.  A time when the Farmer's Markets in Oregon open and the Oregon Bounty begins to flows.  Found some fresh organic strawberries at ours this week and it just gets better from here out!

What do you see in this photo?  If you answered apples, mushrooms, potatoes, bread and greens, you would be right.  I see a savory Italian Fritatta with Argula and mushrooms, herbed roasted potatoes, a rich and flavorful banana French Toast and Old Parkdale Inn’s famous Baked Fuji Apples.

Once a week we receive our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box delivered to our door by Hood River Organics.  It's like Christmas every time, not knowing what gifts we will receive.  Depends on what is being harvested on the organic family farms in the Hood River Valley and Columbia Gorge.  This is exceptional Oregon Slow Food.

Some of the innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild belong to their local CSA and they also, along with most of our innkeepers, visit the farmers markets regularly, selecting the perfect ingredient to create a true Northwest Culinary experience for our guests. Many of us have gardens producing fresh herbs, vegies, and more.

As spring turns into summer the box gets heavier and the market stands overflow with more and more of the bounty our farms have to offer.  Won’t be long before the berries and fresh herbs start arriving.  Can’t you just taste them?

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

Monday, March 26, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Breakfast ingredients at the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and BreakfastIt is all about the food.  I am so excited to be a member of the Hood River Organics CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Coop, bringing 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. 

Mike's Road Trip Blog reviews Villa Columbia in Hood River

Wednesday, August 10, 2011 by Heather Tyreman

Villa Columbia B&B in Hood River, OR, as posted on Mike's Road Trip blog in August 2011.  Columbia River Gorge hotels in Hood River ORVilla Columbia Bed and Breakfast in Hood River, Oregon, was recently featured on Mike's Road Trip.  In the same class as the Columbia River Gorge hotels (really more in the boutique hotel category), Villa Columbia B&B gives you good access to the scenic Columbia Gorge year round and access to Mt. Hood in the winter for skiing.

An excerpt from Mike's blog post:

Breakfast at the Villa Columbia is scrumptious and served in thee-courses.  Local ingredients are often used to create a unique experience that reminded me of being in Europe.  Each morning of my stay I enjoyed a fresh fruit berry parfait with vanilla yogurt.  Some of the other items/dished included:

  • Whole wheat blueberry scone
  • Ham & cheese breakfast calzone
  • Twice baked croissant with cherry compote and chicken sausage
  • Spinach quiche with sliced cantaloupe accompanied with sausage in puff pastry

Throughout the day refreshments are available, from stocked mini-fridges with soda and water, to cookies, fruit (like a fresh bowl of cherries while I was there) and a number of candy dishes…all the comforts of home.

[Editor's note: Villa Columbia is a member of the Oregon B&B Guild's Green Lodging Certification program.]

Mike also provides an excellent short video with views of the inn, the guestrooms and the area, plus a photo album of the inn.  Visit his blog to see it all.  And while you're at it, take a look at the rest of Mike's Road Trip--what an interesting fellow and an interesting mission!

Dahlias Make a Showing in the Hood River Valley

Wednesday, August 10, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

The Hood River Valley is certainly known for having thousands of acres of fruit of which cherries, blueberries and peaches are finding their way to the fruit stands now.  We also have some amazing flower farms, one of which, The Gorge White House, has glads, daisies, cone flowers, snapdragons, Oriental lilies, lavender and more. 

Dahlias make a showing near Hood River Lodging AccommodationsThe dahlia fields at the Gorge White House have begun to bloom and it is a photo op you won’t want to miss.  They will be in their seasonal display until the first frost.  Pick out your favorite and order tubers to be picked up or delivered next year at planting time. 

In the fields behind the dahlias are u-pick blueberries just now coming on and in their fruit stand are cherries, cut flowers, and raspberries.  The peaches should arrive early next week.

In the White House itself is a lovingly restored bar that now serves up wines and micro-brews produced right here in the Columbia River Gorge.  Enjoy by the taste, the glass or the bottle all at one stop! 

If you had to pick just one place to visit in the Hood River Valley, The Gorge White House would be it.  Just minutes from Mt Hood Bed and Breakfasts and Hood River Lodging, this is really a one stop, enjoy all, location.  After a hearty Hood River Valley Bounty Breakfast at one of the inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, consider a picnic on their patio or in the fields.

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

Friday, August 5, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
At Rasmussens Farm
Sunflowers at Rasmussen Farm near Mt Hood Bed and BreakfastAug 6&7 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 20 & 21. 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 13 & 14 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.

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.

Mt Hood Hamlet Bed and Breakfast in the scenic Upper Hood River Valley Oregon

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.

Farm Dinner to Celebrate the Hood River Valley Farmers, Winemakers, and Food Artisans

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Matthew Domingo
FARM to FORK Co-Founder

Farm Dinners Celebrate Hood River Valley's Farmers, Winemakers and Food Artisans

Farm to Fork’s founders have created a traveling farm-to-table restaurant, local food fundraiser, andcommunity celebration rolled into one. Each dinner is set at the farm where Hood River Valley Farm to Fork, A Culinary delightmuch of the food on the menu was produced, and proceeds benefit food-focused non-profits. rm to Fork’s mission is to connect guests to local sources of produce, meat, seafood and dairy products, and to honor the talented farmers, food artisans, winemakers and chefs who contribute to Oregon’s growing culinary and winemaking reputation.

An enormously successful 2010 season in Southern Oregon has led FARM to FORK north to Hood River. On September 18th at Historic Kiyokawa Family Orchards, FARM to FORK will feature their first Hood River event in anticipation of an expanded dinner series in the Hood River Valley next summer.
 
“The Hood River Valley, and the greater Columbia Gorge is a rich and beautiful agricultural region,” says Matthew Domingo, FARM to FORK’s Event Director.  “We’re excited to meet the farmers and food artisans in the valley, share their stories, and support the work of local organizations like the Gorge Grown Network and the Hood River Valley Residents Committee.”

Dinners begin with a tour from the host farmer, and include local wine, a five-course meal, and producer discussions (suggested minimum donation: $75).  Proceeds benefit local farmers and organizations supporting small farms, food security and greater accessibility to local food. Proceeds for this dinner will benefit the Gorge Grown Food Network and the Hood River Valley Residents Committee. For more information on Farm to Fork’s September 18th Farm Dinner, and to purchase seats to the event, go to farmtoforkevents.com.

After you have purchased your Farm to Fork tickets, choose a Mt Hood bed and breakfast through the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild as your lodging option and you are sure to turn a simple weekend into an Oregon culinary vacation.  
Beside two major bike rides this same weekend in the Gorge, we are going to be in the middle of Harvest.  Which means over 1500 riders and visitors to the Family Fruit Farms, which means Rooms will be hard to come by.  Not to mention this event is almost sold out!! 

The Mt Hood Cycling Classic Returns to the Columbia River Gorge

Monday, May 30, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
A scenic stage of the Mt Hood Cycling ClassicThe Mt Hood Cycling Classic is coming to the Columbia River Gorge June 2nd-5th.  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 Oregon Bed and Breakfast inns in area surrounding Mt Hood, come up enjoy the race and the Columbia River Gorge.

Sakura Ridge - The Farm and Lodge. Exquisite lodging in the Columbia River Gorge

Saturday, April 16, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Sakura Ridge The Farm and Lodge with Panoramic Views of Mt Hood and the Hood River ValleySakura Ridge - The Farm and Lodge, is a working orchard and Oregon bed and breakfast located on the west slopes of the Hood River Valley.  You'll feel like you are sitting on top of the world as you enjoy panoramic views of the valley and majestic Mt Hood from your private patios or the extensive decks.

The Farm grows organic dark sweet cherries and delicate pears many of which make it to the amazing breakfasts served at the Lodge along with many other organic fruits and vegetables grown organically in the extensive gardens.  A true Northwest Culinary experience. 

From the Coast, Portland, Mount Hood and The Gorge, Willamette Valley, Southern Oregon to the Rogue River Valley or Central Oregon to the High desert of the East the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild offers unique and comfortable accommodations.

Get to know our State like a local; stay with one of our near 100 hosts in any one of our many regions. 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

Seven Oaks ~ A Hood River Bed and Breakfast

Sunday, April 10, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Seven Oaks Bed and Breakfast A member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast GuildWith a gorgeous view of Mt. Hood, Seven Oaks Bed and Breakfast, an inspected and approved member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, has two simply elegant bedrooms with private bathrooms and a separate cottage. Lots of nooks for relaxing plus a complete vegetarian breakfast to start your day. Less than five minutes from downtown Hood River. A wholesome retreat...in every sense.

Built in 1928 by French craftsman and renowned inventor August Guignard, the homestead at 1373 Barker Road featured acres of farms and orchards as well as manufacturing operations for the fruit grading equipment he pioneered. Today, that home is Seven Oaks Bed & Breakfast and it continues to be one of the finest historical homes in the nation.

Get to know our State like a local; stay with one of our near 100 hosts in any one of our many regions. 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

Have I been an Oregon Innkeeper for 8 years already?

Friday, April 1, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
The Old Parkdale Inn-A Mt Hood Bed and BreakfastOn March 31st, 2003, we arrived in Parkdale and began our journey as innkeepers of the Old Parkdale Inn, a Mt. Hood Bed and Breakfast.  It was something I had dreamed about doing for quite awhile and some days I still pinch myself and some days I ask myself what am I doing!

Today I begin my 9th year.  My, time certainly flies when we are having fun!  And I am having fun.  Oh, I admit there are days when it gets a little rough, say mid September when we have had a constant turnover of guests experiencing Oregon.  But those guests are amazing and I wouldn't trade them for the world.  Some have become friends, almost family, they have returned so many times.

The Old Parkdale Inn is nestled in the Hood River Valley on the northern slope of Mt. Hood.  We are the perfect base for outdoor adventure and quiet retreats.   Our grounds have been recognized as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat and we look forward to spring and the arrival of the many birds that frequent our feeders.

Located in the heart of the Fruit loop, a scenic 35 mile driving tour past family farms, fruit stands, wineries, and friendly communities, we anxiously await the show of blossoms ready to open in the acres of pears, cherries and apples.

On Blossom Fest Weekend, April 15/16, businesses along the Fruit Loop open after their winter nap and celebrate spring with art shows, music, and of course, food.

Mt. Hood, Pear Blossoms and Bee Hives, a sure sign of Spring in the Hood River ValleyAs a Certified Green Lodging member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild you can rest assured you will experience accommodations fulfilling your sustainable travel needs.  Our inn has three artistically decorated guest rooms, all with private bath, eco friendly products, a modern kitchen and dining room where we serve up a hearty Northwest culinary breakfast.  
 
The Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast, , the Hood River Valley blossoms, Mt. Hood.  Is there a better way to welcome spring?

Passport to A World of Wine in the Columbia River Gorge

Sunday, March 27, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
"A World of Wine in Forty Miles"

That's the motto for the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers.  Americas' Most Unique Wine Region is located less than an hour East of Portland, Oregon.  Straddling the mighty Columbia River, the Columbia Gorge Growing Region includes the fertile soils of both Washington and Oregon!  From the marine influenced climate of Underwood Mountain to the arid dryland of the Eastern Gorge, from Albarino to Zinfandel, the grapes and wines of this unique region are a spectacular selection of sweet whites and luscious reds.

Columbia Gorge Wineries Grand Tasting in Portland
Monday, March 28, 2011
The preview event for Passport Weekend featuring wineries from the
Columbia Gorge in Washington and Oregon

Over 20 wineries will be coming to Portland for one night to pour wines from the Columbia River Gorge.  Come meet with our winemakers and discover the variety of wines from the Columbia Gorge and Columbia Valley AVA.  You'll be convinced to treat all your senses with a trip into the stunning Columbia River Gorge and attend the 'Passport Weekend'. 

Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Passport Weekend TicketsThe wineries span the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area through 40 miles of peaceful, open-roads running through double mountain views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams.

Stay a long weekend at a member inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild in the Mt Hood, Columbia Gorge Region.  One day can be spent in the Washington wineries, the next in our Oregon wineries then complete the weekend in Hood River's downtown tasting Rooms.  It's a wonderful way to spend the weekend and discover the variety of wines from the Columbia Gorge and Columbia Valley AVAs and the member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.

And this is just too cool.  The Columbia River Winegrowers now has an app available at the iTunes store!  Passports for the upcoming 'Passport to A World of Wine' are available on the app. Isn't that progressive? A World of Wine in the palm of your hand. Love it!!

Fall in Hood River, Oregon

Friday, January 28, 2011 by Stories From Our Guests
I had been to Hood River on business but wanting to bring my husband.  We stayed at the Old Parkdale Inn and had a wonderful experience. Mary the Innkeeper was engaging and so welcoming. The Inn itself was just what we were looking for to relax and use as a basecamp for visiting the sites in the area. Unfortunately, we could only stay for two nights but next time will stay for at least four, there was so much to see and do. Mary's breakfast were a real treat and she gave each of the couples fresh apple butter she had made while we were there. All the couples made reservations for the Hood River Dinner train and it was a fun experience.

Hood River Valley breakfast at the Old Parkdale Inn in Parkdale Oregon

Cricketwood Country Bed and Breakfast ~ #4 Bed and Breakfast on TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards List for 2011

Monday, January 24, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Travelers' Choice Awards 2011NEWTON, Mass., Jan. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/  TripAdvisor®, the world's largest travel site*, today announced the winners of its 2011 Travelers' Choice® awards.  This year 676 establishments were recognized in the ninth year of the competition. Unlike any other hotel honors, TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice winners are based on millions of real and unbiased reviews and opinions from travelers around the world.

"Based on reviews from millions of travelers around the globe, TripAdvisor is able to recognize the world's most outstanding hotels for the ninth year of the Travelers' Choice Awards," said Karen Drake, senior director of communications for TripAdvisor. "Outstanding service, great value and top quality are hallmarks of our Travelers' Choice winners."

The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is proud to announce that one of our unique, inspected and approved inns made this prestigious list.

Cricketwood Country Bed and BreakfastCongratulations, Cricketwood Country Bed and Breakfast is listed as the #1 Trip Advisor Lodging property in Central Oregon and #4 on the Traveler's Choice Award list of Top 10 Bed and Breakfasts in the United States.

Nestled on 10 acres of park-like setting just outside of Bend, Oregon, Cricketwood Country Bed and Breakfast is complete with three rooms, all with private baths, two person spa tubs, fireplaces, flat screen and hight def TVs.  You'll also be treated to fresh-baked cookies to order, custom restaurant style breakfast menu with many options for all dietary choices, a beverage refrigerator with Deschutes Brewery beers, sodas, white wines, waters.  Ice Cream treats in the freezer, pop-corn selections and microwave to pop it in, Biscotti, Candy bars, Nuts Energy Bars and more.  And it's all complimentary!

From the Coast, Portland, Mt Hood and The Gorge, the Willamette Valley, to Southern Oregon to the Rogue River Valley or to the high deserts of the Eastern and Central Oregon, the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild offers unique and comfortable accommodations.

Get to know Oregon like a local from the locals, the 100+ hosts of our member inns located in all of Oregon's regions. 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.