Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Wednesday, May 16, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

It's that time of year again.  Time to start planning that Oregon Road Trip.  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
 

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.

This Masculine Wildlife Quilt Could Be Yours!

Tuesday, May 15, 2012 by Heather Tyreman

2012 raffle quilt from the Wallowa Mountain Quilters Guild is a Montana log cabin style quilt with silhouettes of wildlife.  Raffle tickets can be purchased by mail and the drawing will be held on June 9, 2012.  Winner need not be present to win.  Quilt will be shipped free of charge.Here's a little note from the innkeepers of the Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast in Joseph, Oregon (almost into Idaho it's so far east & north in Oregon):

If you're a guy and into wildlife, you might just want the 2012 Wallowa Mountain Quilters Guild raffle quilt for your bed or as a blanket on the leather couch in your den.  And the raffle's still on until June 9, 2012, so buy your tickets now!  $1 per ticket or 6 for $5--and you can order them through the mail too.  This year's quilt is a Montana Log Cabin style with black silhouettes of birds, moose, deer, foxes and other wildlife.  Very masculine and very striking.

Gee, might even be a good idea to order some tickets and win this beautiful quilt to give as a present to that man who has everything. . .

If you want to see the quilt in person, come to the 20th Annual Quilt Show!  The show takes place on June 8 & 9, 2012, the same weekend here in Joseph Oregon as the Oregon Mountain Cruise Car Show.

We're all sold out of lodging here at the Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast but we're happy to refer you to other inspected and approved Oregon bed and breakfasts of the Oregon B&B Guild.  Belle Peppers Bed and Breakfast in Joseph still has rooms open and carries green lodging certification.  Only 6 miles away, the 1910 Historic Enterprise House Bed and Breakfast is currently full.  See you at the quilt show!

Cascade Lakes ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Monday, May 14, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Thanks to Travel Oregon for this shot of South Sister and a beautiful Cascade Alpine LakeIt's that time of year again.  Time to start planning that Oregon Road Trip.  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

'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.

Where to Stay on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway

Sunday, May 13, 2012 by Heather Tyreman

Crater Lake as photographed by Fred Wickman, innkeeper of the Historic Prospect Hotel, Motel and Dinner HouseGeotourism is a great way to see the United States. Keith Riggs at the US Department of Agriculture recently posted a really good blog post about touring through Northern California and Southern Oregon on the national Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway.  The route runs from Lake Almanor in Northern California to Crater Lake in Southern Oregon, passing through seven national forests along the way.  Riggs writes: 

Along this journey from volcano to volcano you’ll find opportunities for adventure, exploration, communion with nature and an appreciation for the culture and history of the region. You’ll also find residents eager to share the beauty and mystery of this land that is dotted with evidence of an eruptive past.

We'd like to make sure you know about some of the residents along the way--the innkeepers of Southern Oregon bed and breakfasts ready and eager to host you as you explore the volcanic region of Southern Oregon.

You'll find six Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild members in Southern Oregon here on the OBBG website.  Each one is a different lodging experience, but all are inspected and approved members of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.

  • The Prospect Historic Hotel & Dinner House is the closest bed & breakfast to Crater Lake and offers a full range of meals in the dinner house.  
  • Lonesome Duck Ranch and Resort is a close 35 minutes to Crater Lake in the Chiloquin area and offers hiking, flyfishing, birding, or just relaxing on the porch.
  • TouVelle House in Jacksonville, Oregon, is the elegantly restored home of Judge Touvelle, complete with bocce court, swimming pool & sauna.
  • Just outside of Jacksonville is Bybee's Historic Inn, a classic revival Victorian home on 3.5 acres.
  • Oak Hill B&B is situated in Ashland, Oregon, away from this historic downtown but still close enough to walk to town.
  • If you'd like to stay closer in Ashland, then A Midsummer's Dream Bed & Breakfast is close to Southern Oregon University.

Driving the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway is just a taste of the range of Oregon geotourism.  Whether it's Crater Lake lodging you seek or a broader based experience, there's an Oregon B&B waiting for you!

 

Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Saturday, May 12, 2012 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!
 

Four Reasons to Visit Newport Oregon Now

Friday, May 11, 2012 by Heather Tyreman

Ocean House Bed and Breakfast in Newport Oregon has a terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean.Who knows better than someone who lives in Newport Oregon?  The innkeepers of the Ocean House Bed and Breakfast  share this upcoming news for May & June 2012.  This Oregon Coast lodging is a great place to stay when exploring the central Oregon Coast.

As you may have noticed, I am not much of a blogger. But there is news to tell and here it is: The Tall Ships are coming to Newport. The Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain, both tall ships will be in Yaquina Bay May 15 – May 27 for tours and naval skirmishes. Don’t miss it.

Also, there’s the Newport Oregon’s Home and Garden Show from May 18 until May 20 at the Newport Recreation Center, located at 225 Avery

Join us for the highly anticipated 2nd Annual Celtic Festival and Highland Games on June 8, 9, & 10, 2012 at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds at 880 NE 7th St. Newport.

Have a restful stay at the Ocean House Bed & Breakfast, “Far enough to be Away, Close enough to be Near” at the “Couples Retreat at the Beach”. Couldn’t help a little advertising there.  See you all soon!

Ready to book your room?  Contact the Craig or Dawn at the Ocean House Bed and Breakfast by phone at (541) 265-3888 or toll-free 866-495-3888.

 

Why Business Travelers Should Choose a Bed and Breakfast Over a Hotel

Friday, May 11, 2012 by Heather Tyreman

Want to know why business travelers should choose an Oregon bed and breakfast over a hotel?  Lots of reasons!  Of course, every bed & breakfast is different and that's the beauty of staying at a B&B. Some are more accustomed to business travel, but all are gracious and accommodating.  Here are just a few reasons to consider:

  1. Comfortable bed (and great pillows)
  2. Home atmosphere (yes it's fine to take off your shoes & stretch out)
  3. A place to spread out your work if you need to (dining room table in the evening with a glass of wine in your hand?)
  4. Free Wi-Fi always (always, always free!)
  5. Maps, local contacts, restaurant recommendations (we really do live here not just work here like the front desk clerk often does)
  6. Cooked breakfast prepared for you when you want it (and coffee or tea too)
  7. Peace & quiet (a big plus--sometimes with a TV in the room, sometimes not)
  8. Especially for women traveling alone, someone who at least knows if you don't make it home at night (your mom away from mom)

Isn't it funny how many chain hotels are now offering breakfast, free Wi-Fi, etc.?  Wonder where they got the idea? 

Here's a recent comment in a room journal from a business traveler who spends about 75% to 80% of her time on the road calling on clients:

"After spending 4 out of 5 nights a week in "tract" hotels--what a wonderful break! The bed was spectacular (my back says THANK YOU!) and the robe so comfy.  Breakfast was such a treat.  I'll be back and be sure to let my fellow road warrior know about you.  Bravo!! See you soon - KB

Sure you can stay at the Salem Oregon hotels or the Portland Oregon hotels, for instance, but why choose a hotel when you can stay at a bed & breakfast?  Expand your radar and put us on the map.  You won't be sorry.  Oh, and if you need a little more convincing to think "bed and breakfast" when you travel on business, hope you enjoyed the video courtesy of the Better Way To Stay campaign.

See you at your next Oregon bed and breakfast!

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?

What I like about bed and breakfasts in Oregon (Doily Decision 2012)

Saturday, April 28, 2012 by Heather Tyreman

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hey sports fans--do you like an Oregon bed and breakfast of the traditional type with doilies on the nightstands?  Or are you the type of traveler to prefer your bed and breakfast lodging be doily-free?  Well, here's your chance to let us Oregon innkeepers know.

The Professional Association of Innkeepers International (affectionately known as PAII and pronounce as "pie") is holding a vote: DOILY DECISION 2012.  We need to hear from you, the guests who stay in our Oregon bed and breakfasts. Tell us your preference!  Register your vote! (Oh, and by the way, when you vote, you might wind up winning an opportunity to stay at a likeminded inn.)

Are you the type that jumps for joy when you see your lodging without lace?  Are you outraged at the thought of a bed and breakfast without the traditional touch?  Check out this video and see which way your blood boils:

From the McMinnville Oregon bed and breakfast to the Astoria Oregon bed and breakfast to the far reaches of Eastern Oregon and Crater Lake, you'll find quality inns of the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild.  Let you hosts know how you voted in Doily Decision!

Ski, Surf , Sip and Sleep in One Location ~ In and Near the Hood River Valley

Friday, April 20, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

The town of Hood River, the hub of the Columbia River Gorge, is known in the world of sports at the windsurfing capital of America. Stiff prevailing winds and the Columbia's strong Mt Hood, Oregon's tallest peak at 11, 240' watches over the Hood River Valleyriver currents combine to create a kind of wind tunnel that makes for legendary windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions.  South of the city, above the pear and apple orchards of the Hood River Valley, the massive glaciered peak of Mount Hood rises to fill the horizon, a perfect postcard image of Oregon. 
 
Where can you ski in the morning and windsurf into the afternoon and evening?  And it's blossom time in the Hood River Valley.  Take the Fruit Loop, a 35 driving tour through the valley's orchards, forests and quiet communities.  Stroll the quaint shops, breweries, and wine tasting rooms in downtown Hood River.  The innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild will provide unique accommodations, a superb Northwest Culinary experience, and tips on where to dine and explore. 

Connect with the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild via Social Media

Thursday, April 19, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Social media.  One either likes it or they don't.  We of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild actually love it.  Today's travelers' are web savvy travelers' who use many different social media sites to make wise travel choices.  Social media listings direct you to us and then our innkeepers take over to make your lodging choice the perfect choice for your Oregon vacation.

The Lobenhaus Bed and Breakfast tableThe Oregon B&B Guild website ~ new and improved with loads of information, serving as a 'one stop shopping' website:  

This Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Blog.  An amazing social media tool.  We post about happenings and events all across Oregon and the lodging options close by.  Search the blog for posts on winery events, bird watching sites, farmers markets and oh, so much more!

facebook - join almost 2000 fans that 'like' the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  You'll get live updates on specials, events, and state wide happenings. 

twitter - follow us on twitter @oregonbbguild and @ORinnquire for short timely Q&A with innkeepers.  We live here.  We know Oregon like the back of our hands and would love to help you create a memorable visit at our inns and in our regions

Flickr - where our innkeepers have uploaded photos of their inns, events, and scenic shots of Oregon

Pinterest - photos and more photos!  Of our inns, our innkeepers, our food, and of course our Oregon.

There are over 400 bed and breakfasts in Oregon but only ours are inspected and approved by the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, making them a exceptional lodging choice for your perfect vacation.  Thank you for choosing one, or more, of our member inns as a lodging option on your next Oregon vacation.  You'll be glad you did.

 

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

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 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.

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.


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.

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.

Hood River Blossom Festival and Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inns

Tuesday, April 17, 2012 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

Sunday, April 15, 2012 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 and the Mt Hood Hamlet 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.  With over 2 feet of fresh snow in the last couple of weeks conditions are perfect.  Or perhaps some cross country or snowshoeing in the morning before the sun warms the snow?
The Mt. Hood Hamlet Bed and Breakfast, Mt Hood LodgingCome 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.


Eastern Oregon's Bed & Breakfasts, Bird Watching in the Zumwalt Prairie and the Wallowa Lake Region

Saturday, April 14, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Head into the North Eastern corner of Oregon and the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve

The National Conservancy Zumwalt Prairie Preserve - photo by Mary Lix AustinThe Prairie is situated in the Wallowa River Valley northeast of Enterprise and Joseph with an Oregon Bed and Breakfast inn nearby.  At 33,000 acres, the Zumwalt Prairie is North America's largest remaining grassland of its type and you are welcome to enjoy the beautiful views of the prairie and canyons. 

Supporting one of the highest concentrations of breeding hawks and eagles in North America, the Zumwalt Prairie is also home to falcons making this a haven for birds of prey and 17 species of grassland songbirds.  Many large mammals in the Prairie include elk, mule deer, big horn sheep and bobcats.

Make your reservation today at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast in Joseph, Oregon.  Then spend a day, or two, hiking the Zumwalt Prairie in search of the rare Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, once wiped out from the prairies of Oregon.  While in the area you'll want to also visit the Wallowa Lake region where a wide variation in habitat and terrain draw a large number of species.   You best book a few extra night to see it all!   

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.

Celebrate with a Romantic Weekend Getaway at the Apple Inn Bed and Breakfast

Friday, April 13, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Guest Blogger: Cindy Weeldryer
for Apple Inn Bed and Breakfast
Cottage Grove, Oregon

Look toward Romantic Weekend Getaways at this Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast

Whether it’s time to take your relationship to the next level or to celebrate an important milestone in your journey together, the Apple Inn Bed and Breakfast  is an ideal place to romance your sweetheart with a romantic weekend getaway in the woods.

A member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, the Apple Inn Bed and Breakfast will help you plan a customized romantic weekend get-away to Cottage Grove, the Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon.

On Friday night, select one of Cottage Grove’s many restaurants that offer both casual and fine culinary experiences. Local eateries include Mexican, Thai, Indian, Chinese, and American cuisine.  Then head up to The Apple Inn Bed and Breakfast for hours of pampering and relaxation in one of our cozy rooms. For your enjoyment we offer an evening snack tray and a soak in our steamy spa tub under the stars.

On Saturday morning choose among our signature breakfast menu items to energize you for whatever plans you’ve made to.  And you are sure to experience true Oregon Geotourism should you plan to:

  • Explore The Apple Inn’s 270+ acre tree farm and learn how one family sustainably manages its timber trust from one generation to the next.
  • Explore Cottage Grove’s National Historic District. Visit its local bookstores, pubs and cafes, antique and collectible shops, gold mining museum, art galleries, tea house and bakeries.
  • Explore the trails and beautiful waterfalls in the Cottage Grove District of the Umpqua National Forest.
  • Explore the many murals in the downtown area.
  • Explore the area’s charming covered bridges.
  • Explore local wineries in the area and splurge on a romantic limo to fully enjoy the experience.

On Saturday evening, your options include attending a play at our award-winning community theatre, enjoying a variety of live music at local venues, or simply relax and cuddle together in front of a fire and remind each other why your love is a forever-kind of love.

Contact us today so we can help you plan a special unforgettable romantic get-away weekend with your beloved!

FARM to FORK ~ An Authentic Oregon Culinary Experience

Thursday, April 12, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini
FARM to FORK photo courtesy of http://farmtoforkevents.com/

FARM to FORK is a "traveling farm-to-table restaurant, local food fundraiser, and community celebration rolled into one! Our unique FARM to FORK dinners are designed to reconnect people to the source of their food, and to honor the talented farmers, food artisans, winemakers, and chefs that contribute to the growing culinary reputation and local food community of Southern Oregon"

Scheduling for the 2012 FARM to FORK events scheduled have begun and the promoters of this event invite you to "meet the farmers, tour the farms, and experience a remarkable artisan meal in the company of friends, neighbors, and fellow supporters of our local food and wine community. Proceeds from the dinners will be contributed directly to local farmers, wineries and organizations that support small farms, food security, and greater accessibility to healthy, local food."

We hope you can make one or more of the FARM to FORK dinners and we encourage you to make your reserve your seat early as these events will surely sell out as will most events happening in Ashland, Oregon.  And the beds of Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inns fill up even quicker!

B&B Accommodations for your Oregon Bird Watching Adventure

Tuesday, April 10, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Birding in Oregon is amazing.  Especially this time of year when activity along the major flyways increase and the spring rituals in our habitats and backyard resume.  The Oregon Cascade Birding Trail (OCBT) is a great place to begin your birding adventure.  From there you can decide where you'd like to visit.  When you have made that decision turn to the website for the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild and I am sure you will find an inn close by.

Focus on the Willamette Valley today.  I found an amazing number of birding locations in Salem, Oregon.  Salem is a leader in urban forestry, with tree-lined streets and 40 city parks.  The capitol of Oregon, Salem is located in the heart of the Willamette Valley alongside the Willamette River so no wonder are many birding sites in it's backyard. 

Known for its fertile land with orchards, vineyards and rolling grass fields nestled between the snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascade Mountains and the forests of the Coast Range, the Willamette Valley offers an abundance of birds and bird habitats and the Willamette Valley Birding Trail will take you there.

The State of Oregon is a bird watchers paradise.  There are extensive reserves and habitats that serve as excellent nesting and brood rearing areas for waterfowl and colonial nesting birds including American white pelican and several heron species. Many of our Member Inns have habitats on their grounds or are located near land ideal for birding.  Grab your binoculars, choose an inn, and set out on your bird watching adventure.

Prospect Hotel - Ideal for Crater Lake Lodging and Bird Watching on the Crater Lake Loop

Monday, April 9, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

The Evening GrosbeakLocated just 28 miles from Crater Lake National Park, The Prospect Hotel can be the perfect home base when birding on the Crater Lake Loop of the Oregon Cascade Birding Trail.   The Rogue River is minutes away with mature riparian habitat surrounded by mixed conifer forests.  Peregrine Falcon, Calliope and Rufus Hummingbirds nest in these forests.  Diamond Lake supports high concentrations of diving birds.  The rich, diverse habitats on the Crater Lake Loop provide home for a large variety of birds.  Crawford Creek Meadows is home to at least eight species of nesting owls.

The Propsect Historic Hotel Bed and Breakfast,  built in the late 1800's, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The magnificent stage house sits on five acres with grounds great for strolling or just relaxing after a long day's hike.  The historic hotel has been totally restored andFor Crater Lake Lodging choose The Historic Prospect Hotel has housed noted dignitaries such as Theodore Roosevelt and Jack London.  The 10 guest rooms, most with private baths, are furnished with beautiful antique furniture and handmade quilts.

Nestled in the woods behind the main house, the 14 motel units offer exceptional privacy and convenience.  The motel is accommodating to travelers with large groups.

Spend a few days at the Prospect Hotel, visit Crater Lake and the birding sites along the Crater Lake Loop, then head south to the Mt. McLoughlin Loop of the Oregon Cascades Birding Trail. Snow Geese This loop will take you along the north-western flanks of the Upper Klamath Basin and possibly the most ecologically diverse section on the entire route.  After a full day of birding the Mt. McLoughlin Loop travel west for Ashland Oregon Lodging at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast member inn.  With over 80 inns, The Guild makes it easy to explore Oregon, traveling through scenic and diverse landscapes and knowing a comfortable Bed and Breakfast awaits your arrival.

Get to know our State like a local.  Select a Bed and Breakfast from where to start and end your trip.  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.

Live Your Cowboy Dreams at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast

Sunday, April 8, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Looking for a dude ranch vacation?  Look no further.  These working cattle ranches, members of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, provide horseback vacations, cattle drives, and fly fishing vacations.   After a day in the saddle the friendly ranch style atmosphere, the cozy guest rooms and home cooked meals will satisfy and refresh hungry, tired guests.

Long Hollow Ranch for an amazing Oregon Geotourism adventureHowdy!  Welcome to the Long Hollow Ranch
Long Hollow Ranch is a guest ranch with good old fashion values. The newly remodeled 100-year old ranch house welcomes you to historic Central Oregon.  Explore the ranch on horseback or hike the bordering high desert rimrock. Fish to your heart's content in the ranch reservoirs or spend a relaxing afternoon reading on the veranda, pitching horseshoes in the yard by the campfire or practicing your roping skills

Long Hollow Ranch is located in the heart of one of the Northwest's most scenic recreation areas, just a stones throw from Bend, Oregon.  Golf courses manicured to perfection abound, whitewater rafting awaits the adventurous.  Roaming the antique and quilt stores of Sisters, a true town from the Old West just minutes away, revives the spirit.

Wilson Ranches RetreatWelcome, Partner, to Wilson Ranches Retreat
Your hosts, Phil and Nancy Wilson, are fifth generation Oregonians, whose families homesteaded in Wheeler and Gilliam Counties over 100 years ago.  A 9,000 acre working cattle and dude ranch takes you off the beaten track to a rustic hideout, located in the beautiful Butte Creek Valley three miles West of Fossil, Oregon off Highway 19. This incredible, secluded scenic Oregon Lodging Ranch with spectacular sunsets and brilliant star-studded nights will captivate you. 

Enjoy horseback riding in a geologically and historically rich area with a magnificent view of the Cascade Mountain Range or a quiet hike to view the wildlife and diverse flora and fauna on Wilson Ranches Dude Ranch. Wheeler County is home of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and has the richest find of prehistoric fossils in the world.

What are you waiting for?
Work with ranch hands on authentic ranch activities from fixing fence to moving irrigation to working with cattle.  These ranch adventures of a lifetime are just a click away and will take you on the ultimate Oregon Geotourism adventure a serve up great Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild hospitality.  Happy Trails!!