From BnBFinder Bed and Breakfast Blog:
"Family reunions are no longer limited to Thanksgiving or Christmas, or to being a one-day potato salad and hot dog affair. They can be customized to embrace every family’s lifestyle and hobbies, and for that reason, bed and breakfasts and innkeepers can be a reunion-planner’s best friend. Many B&Bs offer their entire premises as the venue for staging your event, and also offer a variety of packages and activities to fit your family’s budget and preferences. Some innkeepers even create fun themes around which activities may be planned, and also arrange itineraries that include trips to theme parks, museums, beaches, or other local attractions. Common areas, such as gardens, and porches provide comfortable gathering spots for family members to reconnect and reminisce. Add to that bountiful breakfasts served to you and your kin every morning, and the joy of having no dishes to wash, and you’ve got the ideal setting for an easy and enjoyable family reunion."
Many of the inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild have the space, grounds and ideal settings for your reunion, retreat, reception, and weddings. For larger events visit the Retreats and Weddings Location Page of the Guild website.
For a smaller more intimate gathering of family and friends any one of 87 inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild will work. We've had a few reunions at our inn this spring/summer. We can accommodate 10 at our inn. Some gatherings were large, up to 40 folks, and although we were not able to accommodate all, only three rooms in the Old Parkdale Inn, we were able to find rooms close by and our gardens made for the perfect setting for reuniting and intimate conversation.
"Keep in mind that like families, no two inns are alike, so finding the perfect match between the B&B and the location is key to the success of the event. Whatever your preference, bed and breakfasts are the ideal place for connecting the great grandparents to the newborns in the family. No need to wait until Christmas to see your loved ones. Instead, why not get together at a family-friendly inn this summer?"
It's time again for the annual Eagle Cap Extreme Sled Dog Race in Northeastern Oregon! This race is Oregon's only sled dog race that is a qualifier for both the Alaska Iditarod and the Yukon Quest in Alaska/Canada.
In a recent press release, ECX President Clyde Raymer, Jr., announced that twelve teams are preregistered for the race--8 for the 100 mile race in the Eagle Cap Wilderness of Wallowa County, Oregon, and 4 for the 200 mile race through the Eagle Cap Wilderness to a site near Halfway, Oregon and return.
The event features fun for the whole family, ranging from the veterinary checks for all the sled dogs on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, through the awards banquet and musher's ball on Saturday, January 16, 2010.
If you'd like to attend the race, we have bed & breakfast lodging in Oregon recommendations for you. There are two Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild members in Joseph, Oregon (the start & finish of the race and location of Race Central):
- Belle Pepper's Bed and Breakfast - Pepper herself is very involved in organizing volunteer for this year's Eagle Cap Extreme. You'll find three well-appointed guestrooms with private baths awaiting you.
- Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast - Heather & Bill are hosting one of the ECX out-of-town staff members as their contribution to this year's race. Last year the trail boss stayed with us, giving guests an insider's view to race operations. We don't know yet who will stay with us for the 2010 race, but we're certain we'll learn more about sled dogs and racing from whoever it is!
Regardless of which bed & breakfast you choose, we'd love to see you "go to the dogs" at an Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild member in January 2010!
When I think of an Oregon wedding, I think of white chairs lined up in the middle of a hazelnut orchard nestled somewhere in the Willamette Valley, huge white bouquets of flowers and ivy all blanketed by a backdrop mossy ground cover and then willow branches covering the bride 
and groom as they exchange vows and say their "I do's." I see white linens covering long tables set for one or two hundred guests, candles lit in rows with silver and crystal goblets with sweet little goodie boxes filled with chocolate covered hazelnuts and tied with gossamer ribbons...
Ok, so a girl can dream...can't she??? Guests visiting last summer really did attend a wedding set in a hazelnut orchard not too far from here! They said it was absolutely beautiful and such a unique setting that they will remember it forever. Are you planning a wedding soon? Are you still trying to figure out where your unforgettable event should occur? Do you love Oregon in all its natural beauty and hopeless romance and rugged glamour? Well...you must consider Oregon for your special day of wedded bliss and memories to last a life time!
The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild has many membership inns that host weddings. Many of these locations are some of the most romantic venues in Oregon and are set outdoors. A rivers edge, hazelnut orchards, wine grape vineyards and some are even set amid the most gorgeous water falls in the entire country! Then again...if you prefer your wedding day memories to be captured indoors, consider the many glamorous historic wedding sites located in many small historic downtown venues and in some of the most beautiful inns in the state!
Start planning your special day of celebration and romance amidst the outdoorsy Oregon glamour or inside a beautiful historic inn! Consider an Oregon Wedding Site and consider making memories for the two of you to last a lifetime!
and groom as they exchange vows and say their "I do's." I see white linens covering long tables set for one or two hundred guests, candles lit in rows with silver and crystal goblets with sweet little goodie boxes filled with chocolate covered hazelnuts and tied with gossamer ribbons...Ok, so a girl can dream...can't she??? Guests visiting last summer really did attend a wedding set in a hazelnut orchard not too far from here! They said it was absolutely beautiful and such a unique setting that they will remember it forever. Are you planning a wedding soon? Are you still trying to figure out where your unforgettable event should occur? Do you love Oregon in all its natural beauty and hopeless romance and rugged glamour? Well...you must consider Oregon for your special day of wedded bliss and memories to last a life time!
The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild has many membership inns that host weddings. Many of these locations are some of the most romantic venues in Oregon and are set outdoors. A rivers edge, hazelnut orchards, wine grape vineyards and some are even set amid the most gorgeous water falls in the entire country! Then again...if you prefer your wedding day memories to be captured indoors, consider the many glamorous historic wedding sites located in many small historic downtown venues and in some of the most beautiful inns in the state!
Start planning your special day of celebration and romance amidst the outdoorsy Oregon glamour or inside a beautiful historic inn! Consider an Oregon Wedding Site and consider making memories for the two of you to last a lifetime!
A 7:30am coffee wake-up call was the perfect way to crawl out of a cozy bed and greet the morning. Last week we enjoyed visiting with our host Jon at Coos Bay Manor, an Oregon coast lodging facility and Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild membership inn. The manor boasts five guest rooms, a hearty, healthy breakfast and two sweet dogs that happily greet each and every guest. This pet friendly inn offers the perfect location for bird watching, dune buggy rides in the sand dunes and many other family fun activities.
A day or two on the coast then we discover hwy 38. This highway is a must. I mean you really must drive this highway. An absolute gorgeous ride with many surprises along the way. Herds of elk, the Umpqua River, the rolling green hills, and oh yeah, all the red barns. Lots of them, tons of them all along this hwy. I
could have spent an entire day just photographing and looking at the barns...but then I would have missed the butterflies.Elkton, Oregon, a small historic town, and home to the Butterfly Pavilion, is only about 36 miles from the Pacific Ocean and 60 miles from Eugene. With a population of 197, this town is fast becoming the "Bass Capital of Oregon". Go fishing for trout, salmon, steelhead or shad too. Or, just go see the butterflies. At the Butterfly Pavilion,
you can enjoy espresso and/or Umpqua ice cream while perusing the beautiful gardens that provide the natural attraction for many species of butterflies. Tour the gardens full of native shrubs and trees, see the Life-cycle display of Oregon butterflies, sponsor a log and help construct or just visit the replica of historic Fort Umpqua. Consider this natural botanical garden for the perfect Oregon wedding site! Blueberries, orchards, flowers, gardens, wine grapes and feed crops grace this towns countryside and provides the perfect backdrop for the four wineries found in Elkton. River's Edge Winery, Brandborg Vineyard & Winery, Anindor Vineyards and Bradley Vineyards are all located nearby.
So, a scenic drive along the Oregon Coast, a comfy night in a Coos Bay, Oregon Bed & Breakfast, an unforgettable ride on highway 38, a nice Pinot Noir from an Elkton, Oregon
winery and I think we tapped the perfect trip. Just a night and a day or two to discover another Oregon treasure...can't wait to go again!
Ok, so I never and I mean "never" eat doughnuts. Well, just this one time I ate one. But it was a vegan doughnut. So, does that count???My last 24 hours in Portland have been full. And I really mean full in every sense of the word. For my husbands birthday, we headed north and my goal was to check out as many little "out of the way" cafes and restaurants we could. So I had a doughnut this morning at Voodoo Doughnuts. I have wanted to try these doughnuts ever since moving to Oregon especially when I found out that it's an Oregon Wedding Site. I'm serious! Let me just say it was an experience and we may do it again. But, our culinary tour created by "me", began last evening at OMSI.
OMSI is one of those kind of museums that entertains the entire family. However, last evening it was open only to adults 21 and over. Serving wine, beer and distilled spirits, the museum offered an OMSI After Dark experience that allowed us to set off rockets, build and fly paper airplanes, control a robot and watch electricity go through your hand and make your hair stand on end. Well, that could have been the beer or wine but it was still fun to watch. Star Parties, the CSI Crime Scene Exhibit and the After Dark events are happening at OMSI all summer long.
Leaving the museum, we needed a little something to start off the "food" part of our tour. We happened upon The Clarklewis. This restaurant was a loading dock in a former life and now serves up tasty items such as Blue Bird Farm Farro Soup with Rapini, Pecorina and Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Saute'ed Sand Dabs with Oregon Asparagus, Fresh Bay Shrimp and Vermouth Butter. Wasn't on my list, but it is now!
Stumptown Coffee and our Voodoo Doughnuts got us going this morning as we headed to Portland's Northeast District. Taking the bus, we landed near La Buca (google for info), and after attending an art show, we sat and dined on several varieties of olives, crusty bread, balsamic vinegar, olive oil and of course an Oregon Pinot Noir. This little cafe was not on my list either but you know how lists go. Two of the cafes on my list have closed, one for remodeling. So, we made a new list and headed for the Morrison Bridge. The Montage in Portland is directly under the bridge and offers up frog legs, gator bites, and blackened catfish. The location was worth the walk and with it's interesting menu, it stays on our new list of places to dine.
Didn't eat the Mancakes but saw a Neo Blast Omelet, a BLT and burgers on the menu. Stepping Stone Cafe is located in the North West area of Portland and serves "Mancakes" with a challenge to finish them all. If you do, your picture goes on their "wall of shame". So, we just tried the safe tomato and Gorgonzola soup.
Gnocchi with wild mushrooms and white truffle oil and an angel hair pasta dish finished our list at the London Grill in the Benson Hotel, downtown Portland. With dining options that include a secret back door that leads to the private cellar, you can dine surrounded by over 6,000 bottles of wine. In the lower level of the Benson Hotel, this restaurant was the perfect night cap to end this "foodies" culinary tour of Portland, Oregon.
So, I encourage you to make your list, don't feel obligated to stick to it, and enjoy a "full" day exploring one of the most sought after culinary tourist destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
In the heart of Oregon wine country in Carlton sits the most perfect little farm where the view is so spectacular it's hard to believe it's real. The rolling hills of vineyards, grasses, clover, trees and the sweetest and most gentle farm animals grace this piece of heaven at Abbey Road Farm.About two weeks ago we took a trip to check out the farm and "silo suites". An hour and a half from Albany and the Corvallis area and an hour and a half South of Portland, sits 82 acres of pure bliss. John and Judi have created what they call, the "real farm experience" and invite those seeking just that to participate with tasks around the farm such as gardening, managing animal related chores, weeding, stacking hay and even mucking stalls. (Not sure what the latter is but sounds like it could be interesting and maybe even involve a good pair of boots).
Opened since July 2005, the "Silo Suites" at Abbey Road Farm offer a bed and breakfast stay out of the ordinary with quite a unique experience. The guest rooms are all situated in real grain silos with five guest rooms that include king beds (with one a queen), Jacuzzi tubs, radiant
floor heat, towel warmers, air conditioning and music systems. The "country contemporary" design of the suites according to John and Judy is simply uncluttered and provides for a minimalist approach leaving comfort as the highest priority. In the heart of wine country in the midst of the thriving gardens, rolling hills of clover, gentle farm animals, and all the comforts of a real "farm stay", the facility also is the perfect setting for events such as weddings, meetings, and receptions. Providing a stage for a memorable "farm" experience, and an ultimate "get-a-way", you can choose to "find yourself" or "lose yourself" at the farm while sitting in Mum's or Pop's Garden overlooking the rolling hills of green sipping some of the many nearby wineries world class wines.
Wine tours, fine dining, wine country balloon rides, museums and the proximity to McMinnville makes this location a perfect spot to experience all the goodies the valley has to offer while providing the "best" in a "farm stay" experience. John is happy to guide through on a tour of Abbey Road Farm or you can simply pick up a self-guided tour book from the innkeeper that provides you the opportunity to see for yourself why this farm has been featured in travel publications such as Sunset Magazine and Travel & Leisure.
Sit back and enjoy the beauty from the gardens and be rest assured knowing a little piece of heaven awaits you on the hillsides in the heart of this wine country.
by
Patrick Arbuckle
Owner & Innkeeper
Forest Springs B&B @ Historic Heiney House
Guest Blogger
Forest Springs Bed and Breakfast in Gresham was recently used as a filming location.
For three days Hollywood (or at least Portland’s Version) occupied Forest Springs Bed and Breakfast. Michael Conner Humphreys (Young Forest Gump) was our guest during the shoot and together with Portland Independent Films, they shot 3 scenes from their upcoming movie.
"Pathfinders: In The Company of Strangers" is set in WWII England and France. As well as having a featured role in the Movie, Conner directed a few scenes. The Story centers around a volunteer unit of American paratroopers whose mission is to land in the heart of enemy territory, and survive long enough to direct the coming airborne invasion of Normandy. Their only hope for survival lies in remaining undiscovered, successfully marking the drop zones, and holding off the enemy until the ensuing invasion arrives.
The cast and crew were an absolute delight and despite the lights, cables, people, props and general chaos, they left the Bed and Breakfast as they had found it. Look for the Movie's release sometime in late 2010.
Thank you, Patrick, for this current news! Forest Springs B&B @ the Historic Heiney House in Gresham is an ideal location for recapturing the old while enjoying the new. This unique Portland Oregon bed and breakfast is located in one of the remaining original historic homes in Gresham with extensive gardens. Updated with an historic flair, guests enjoy Patrick's warm hospitality. Meals are all prepared from scratch--slow food style--using the highest quality ingredients. Forest Springs B&B is one of the favorite Portland Oregon wedding sites. Patrick is a leader in Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild's Green Certification Program. Consider this Portland Oregon lodging when planning your visit to the Pacific Northwest.
Patrick Arbuckle
Owner & Innkeeper
Forest Springs B&B @ Historic Heiney House
Guest Blogger
Forest Springs Bed and Breakfast in Gresham was recently used as a filming location. For three days Hollywood (or at least Portland’s Version) occupied Forest Springs Bed and Breakfast. Michael Conner Humphreys (Young Forest Gump) was our guest during the shoot and together with Portland Independent Films, they shot 3 scenes from their upcoming movie.
"Pathfinders: In The Company of Strangers" is set in WWII England and France. As well as having a featured role in the Movie, Conner directed a few scenes. The Story centers around a volunteer unit of American paratroopers whose mission is to land in the heart of enemy territory, and survive long enough to direct the coming airborne invasion of Normandy. Their only hope for survival lies in remaining undiscovered, successfully marking the drop zones, and holding off the enemy until the ensuing invasion arrives.
The cast and crew were an absolute delight and despite the lights, cables, people, props and general chaos, they left the Bed and Breakfast as they had found it. Look for the Movie's release sometime in late 2010.
Thank you, Patrick, for this current news! Forest Springs B&B @ the Historic Heiney House in Gresham is an ideal location for recapturing the old while enjoying the new. This unique Portland Oregon bed and breakfast is located in one of the remaining original historic homes in Gresham with extensive gardens. Updated with an historic flair, guests enjoy Patrick's warm hospitality. Meals are all prepared from scratch--slow food style--using the highest quality ingredients. Forest Springs B&B is one of the favorite Portland Oregon wedding sites. Patrick is a leader in Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild's Green Certification Program. Consider this Portland Oregon lodging when planning your visit to the Pacific Northwest.
Last Saturday, we went on our first "farm tour." Held in the Willamette Valley in the absolutely gorgeous farming communities of Wilsonville and Sherwood, the sunny warm Oregon day was the perfect backdrop for the huge red barns that
graced the valley floor. Of course it helped that across that valley, Mt. Hood in all it's snowy glory stood showing off it's new "blankets" of snow. For you skiers, don't put your ski's away any time soon. But for you farm goers, get your boots let's go on a farm tour.
There is just something about a big old red barn set on a green hilly stage that takes my breath away. Maybe I'm a farm girl at heart or just a romantic, but whatever I am, I know I am a barn lover. There is just something about red barns and there always has been that brings a sense of nature and shelter to the city girl part of me. In this little red barn, mama sheep and their sweet little lambs are nestled in straw with donkey's, chickens and ducks not too far away.
An alpaca farm a few miles down the road lets us get an up close view of the little guy in the picture. A preemie and still a bit behind his cohorts, this baby alpaca is needing a nap after lunch and begins to settle in for just that.
Horses, alpacas, donkey's, chickens, ducks, sheep and a few other varieties of farm creatures graced us with their presence as we toured each farm. Handmade jewelery, wine tasting, and a yummy bar-b-que rounded out the day as we pooped out and headed toward Portland to stay an Oregon Bed & Breakfast for the night.
Steve and Dusty at the Lion and The Rose Victorian B & B Inn located in the Irvington Historical District in Portland, Oregon awaited our visit and greeted us as we checked in to one of their six guest rooms. Each guest room is decorated with period furnishings and each room has a private bath. What I really loved about this inn is that it was comfortable, clean and oh yeah, the breakfast was
quite delightful. Offering a two course breakfast in their formal dining room, Steve served us a platter of fresh berries, citrus, grapes and melon. A plate of fruit and a fresh baked blueberry scone and I was pleasantly satisfied. The second course provided ham medallions, fried breakfast potatoes and a strata that incorporated mango's. The delish breakfast, the company of Steve and the other lovely guests made me smile as we headed out for the ride home.
Those of you brides or bridegrooms still looking for a unique and gorgeous place to celebrate your special day, know that the Lion and The Rose host weddings for up to 30 guests in the B & B or outside in their gardens for up to 50 guests.
A perfect venue for a sweet wedding and isn't it romantic that this Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Inn has also been voted one of the best places to kiss in the Pacific Northwest.
I don't think I could have asked for a more memorable weekend. I loved the farm tour, the red barns, the animals and I especially loved the romantic stay at the Lion and The Rose Victorian B & B Inn.
graced the valley floor. Of course it helped that across that valley, Mt. Hood in all it's snowy glory stood showing off it's new "blankets" of snow. For you skiers, don't put your ski's away any time soon. But for you farm goers, get your boots let's go on a farm tour. There is just something about a big old red barn set on a green hilly stage that takes my breath away. Maybe I'm a farm girl at heart or just a romantic, but whatever I am, I know I am a barn lover. There is just something about red barns and there always has been that brings a sense of nature and shelter to the city girl part of me. In this little red barn, mama sheep and their sweet little lambs are nestled in straw with donkey's, chickens and ducks not too far away.
An alpaca farm a few miles down the road lets us get an up close view of the little guy in the picture. A preemie and still a bit behind his cohorts, this baby alpaca is needing a nap after lunch and begins to settle in for just that. Horses, alpacas, donkey's, chickens, ducks, sheep and a few other varieties of farm creatures graced us with their presence as we toured each farm. Handmade jewelery, wine tasting, and a yummy bar-b-que rounded out the day as we pooped out and headed toward Portland to stay an Oregon Bed & Breakfast for the night.
Steve and Dusty at the Lion and The Rose Victorian B & B Inn located in the Irvington Historical District in Portland, Oregon awaited our visit and greeted us as we checked in to one of their six guest rooms. Each guest room is decorated with period furnishings and each room has a private bath. What I really loved about this inn is that it was comfortable, clean and oh yeah, the breakfast was
quite delightful. Offering a two course breakfast in their formal dining room, Steve served us a platter of fresh berries, citrus, grapes and melon. A plate of fruit and a fresh baked blueberry scone and I was pleasantly satisfied. The second course provided ham medallions, fried breakfast potatoes and a strata that incorporated mango's. The delish breakfast, the company of Steve and the other lovely guests made me smile as we headed out for the ride home. Those of you brides or bridegrooms still looking for a unique and gorgeous place to celebrate your special day, know that the Lion and The Rose host weddings for up to 30 guests in the B & B or outside in their gardens for up to 50 guests.
A perfect venue for a sweet wedding and isn't it romantic that this Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Inn has also been voted one of the best places to kiss in the Pacific Northwest. I don't think I could have asked for a more memorable weekend. I loved the farm tour, the red barns, the animals and I especially loved the romantic stay at the Lion and The Rose Victorian B & B Inn.
Are you planning a trip to the Central Oregon Coast? Need a good place to stay? It's so fun to stumble into great resources on the Internet!
There's a wonderful blog called Central Oregon Coast-Things to Do full of practical suggestions of places to go, things to do and what to see all along the Central Oregon Coast.
Rayna is the blogger--a landscape designer with a passion for health and fitness. And for day hikes in the Central Oregon Coastal area!
Here's just a sampling of what you'll find in Rayna's blog. And she doesn't just tell you about the place, but gives you the inside scoop on building a little itinerary around it:
- South Beach State Park (Newport)
- Taft Park in Lincoln City
- Otter Crest Loop
There are two easy ways to find them:
- If you're not familiar with locations on the Oregon Coast, start at the OBBG homepage and click on the Oregon Coast area of the interactive map. The map will open up and show you the towns along the Oregon Coast where you can find member inns.
- If you know where you want to stay, you can use the pages for individual cities and towns, or use the Oregon Coast page. There are a total of NINETEEN B&Bs on the Oregon Coast that are inspected and approved by the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild. We're sure you'll find one or more to your liking.
Enjoy your visit to the Oregon Coast. And drop a comment to Rayna thanking her for her great blog posts if you get a chance!
Don't think we've seen the last of the blue birds digging up their stored treasures in our garden but it is a beautiful and sunny day again here in the Willamette Valley.
I've said it before and I will say it again, the sunny days this year have been
plentiful and far outweigh the number of snowy and rainy days that are typical of an Oregon winter. So, today is the first day of spring and I am eager to start our garden and enjoy getting my hands dirty. Last year we had homegrown tomatoes, herbs that include lots of cilantro, and green onions. We love homemade salsa as you can see and, again this year, we will plan to serve breakfast in our garden.
We are kicking it up a notch this spring and took a quick trip to Portland to The Clear Creek Distillery a few days ago. We have used orange liqueur in our batters for waffles, french toast, and crepes since we have opened The Pfeiffer Cottage Inn last May. So, while our little distillery trip was supposed to be an Oregon Brandy buying trip, we had to sample some of Clear Creek's liqueur's as well. New this year is their Blackberry Liqueur and I think it is the perfect addition to their already wonderful selection that includes their Pear Liqueur, (my favorite). It not only smells delicious, but tastes heavenly. Looking forward to trying it in our french toast recipe which is a combination of two recipes that have been put together, changed up now and then and served many different ways. Greg, an innkeeper at Seven Oaks Bed and Breakfast, an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild inn near Hood River, Oregon told me about his french toast recipe and of course I can't leave delicious enough alone and had to add my own twist. Watch the blog next week for the complete, changed up and Pear Liqueur'd up recipe.
Greg and Linda at Seven Oaks Bed & Breakfast not only offer fresh, local and
healthy breakfasts, their inn offers the most serene setting with Mt. Hood in the background. The inn is also an Oregon Wedding Site that provides the most lush gardens with an awesome rustic barn that would make for a perfect photograph in a country outdoor wedding.
If you are looking for an Oregon Wedding Site at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild inn or just a place to enjoy a weekend away that includes a delectable breakfast check out www.obbg.org and maybe we'll see you soon!
I've said it before and I will say it again, the sunny days this year have been
plentiful and far outweigh the number of snowy and rainy days that are typical of an Oregon winter. So, today is the first day of spring and I am eager to start our garden and enjoy getting my hands dirty. Last year we had homegrown tomatoes, herbs that include lots of cilantro, and green onions. We love homemade salsa as you can see and, again this year, we will plan to serve breakfast in our garden. We are kicking it up a notch this spring and took a quick trip to Portland to The Clear Creek Distillery a few days ago. We have used orange liqueur in our batters for waffles, french toast, and crepes since we have opened The Pfeiffer Cottage Inn last May. So, while our little distillery trip was supposed to be an Oregon Brandy buying trip, we had to sample some of Clear Creek's liqueur's as well. New this year is their Blackberry Liqueur and I think it is the perfect addition to their already wonderful selection that includes their Pear Liqueur, (my favorite). It not only smells delicious, but tastes heavenly. Looking forward to trying it in our french toast recipe which is a combination of two recipes that have been put together, changed up now and then and served many different ways. Greg, an innkeeper at Seven Oaks Bed and Breakfast, an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild inn near Hood River, Oregon told me about his french toast recipe and of course I can't leave delicious enough alone and had to add my own twist. Watch the blog next week for the complete, changed up and Pear Liqueur'd up recipe. Greg and Linda at Seven Oaks Bed & Breakfast not only offer fresh, local and
healthy breakfasts, their inn offers the most serene setting with Mt. Hood in the background. The inn is also an Oregon Wedding Site that provides the most lush gardens with an awesome rustic barn that would make for a perfect photograph in a country outdoor wedding. If you are looking for an Oregon Wedding Site at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild inn or just a place to enjoy a weekend away that includes a delectable breakfast check out www.obbg.org and maybe we'll see you soon!
Looking for a meaningful gift for someone? A wedding gift for the newly married? A graduation present?
Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Lodging Gift Vouchers might be just the thing. You can give the gift of relaxation, time away from the everyday, the opportunity to gain a clear head.
OBBG Lodging Gift Vouchers are available in $25 increments and are valid at every Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild member across the state. With nearly 90 members to choose among, that's a lot of choice.
And the recipient can decide where and when to use them. So maybe they'd like to walk in the sand on the Oregon Coast? Hike along the rim of Crater Lake? Catch a new museum exhibit in Portland? Sample a pinot noir in the Oregon Wine Country?
It's not just about the lodging. It's about time.
(don't click here--use the same button on the right side of the blog page)
You can purchase Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild Lodging Gift Vouchers by clicking on the button at the right side of this page. Or you can call the Guild at 1-800-944-6196 and talk to Rickie.
You choose the amount and where you'd like them delivered. We'll send them by mail with delivery confirmation along with a current Print Directory of where in Oregon our bed and breakfast members are located.
It's that simple. Not much of your time, but a generous gift of time for your recipient. What are you waiting for?
If you're travelling the Oregon Coast and would like an inexpensive but unique dining experience, then consider Oregon Coast Culinary Institute in Coos Bay, Oregon. Students and graduates have the opportunity to try out their skills on the public, but it's not like visiting a beauty school for a haircut.
Here's a recent sample from their website of the Friday lunch:
Here's a recent sample from their website of the Friday lunch:
February 27
Pecorino and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms
Balsamic Melon Salad
Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich with Lamb Bacon, Marinated Tomato
Slices, Chipoltle Mayo on Ciabatta Rolls with Homemade Potatoe Chips
And. . .the price tag is $20 per person! Reservations are limited to 20 people by calling the Institute at 541-888-1540. The last Chef's Table of the session will be Friday, March 6th.
Can't make it to Coos Bay by March 6th? The Institute's Patisserie sells freshly made baked goods right out of the bakery on Friday afternoons from 1:30 to 5 pm.
And you'll need somewhere to stay in Coos Bay after that lunch or after buying those pastries. How about an alternative to Oregon coast hotels by booking a reservation at the Coos Bay Manor? This Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild member inn is both Oregon lodging pet friendly and child friendly too.
John & Felicia, owners and innkeepers, would love to share their Midwestern hospitality with you. The inn is a perfect setting for events including meetings, reunions, retreats, scrapbooking and of course it is one of the Oregon wedding sites not easily forgotten.
Bring the family or bring yourselves and don't forget the family dog. Coos Bay is worth the visit anytime of year and the Coos Bay Manor is the place to stay. Give them a call toll-free at 1 (800) 269-1224.
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!
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. . .
If you've ever travelled around Oregon by car you probably know about Tripcheck--the Oregon Department of Transportation's website.
Tripcheck just announced its two newest road cameras:
Tripcheck just announced its two newest road cameras:
- 30 miles east of John Day on Oregon 26 at Austin Junction (the Region 6 page)
- 60 miles south of Burns on Oregon 205 near Frenchglen (the Region 9 page)
Now it looks a little cold and snowy in these camera shots, but it is February in Eastern Oregon, for goodness sakes!
So you're wondering, "Why should I care about these cameras?" Because, if you're going to explore the state and stay at Oregon bed and breakfasts around the state as part of the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild's Explore Oregon and Win program (see the button on the right side of the blog), you just might want to know about road conditions in other parts of Oregon.
And when you're out exploring Highways 26 and 395 near John Day, you might consider staying at the Inn at Juniper Ridge, one of OBBG's newest inspected and approved member inns.
Mary & Norbert have a wonderful B&B on a thousand acres that is truly close to being in the middle of absolutely nowhere--but a great home base for exploring the John Day Fossil Beds, the Kam Wah Chung Museum in John Day and the Malheur National Forest. Norbert is a Mt. Vernon Oregon native and can point you to some of the best things to see and do in this region.
Are you a stargazer? No light pollution here!
Snowmobiler? Now is the season!
Bring the cooler with steaks and help yourself to the outdoor grill and patio. The Cowboy Suite also has a kitchenette so come prepared and you don't have to leave the property for meals.
And take a look at Tripcheck before you go. We'd love to see you out here in Eastern Oregon at one of our Oregon bed and breakfasts.
A destination wedding in practically your own backyard in Oregon. Old growth forest surrounding your ceremony.Many of our Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild members host weddings and Eagle Rock Lodge is one of them. The lodge is a perfect wedding location. This bed & breakfast is very convenient--located only 20 minutes from Eugene Oregon--on 4.5 scenic acres of beautiful McKenzie River frontage.
The Eagle Rock Lodge is a destination venue which gives brides and grooms a full weekend to enjoy their wedding celebration. Newlyweds often
drift away after the ceremony in one of the inn's drift boats for a few
minutes of quiet before their reception.
The bed & breakfast can host up to 22 guests, making it a smart lodging choice for a wedding party that wants to stay together for a weekend.
Experienced innkeeper Debbie Dersham has hosted over sixty weddings at the Eagle Rock Lodge. Her expertise has placed the Lodge as one of the best Oregon wedding sites.
In addition to weddings, this bed and breakfast plays host to wildlife enthusiasts, birding, and those with drift boats. If you're interested in contacting the Eagle Rock Lodge about your upcoming wedding, call Debbie at 1-888-773-4333 (toll-free) or (541) 882-3630 to arrange a tour of their impressive lodge and gardens.
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If you're looking for Portland Oregon lodging but prefer to be east of the downtown, the town of Gresham, Oregon, can be an interesting alternative. Shannon Wells, writing for The Outlook, Gresham's local newspaper, reveals an increasing collection of urban artwork found throughout Gresham and in neighboring Troutdale.Gresham and its neighboring East County cities may not be known as a haven for public artwork. But, if you take the time to look around, there are numerous opportunities — both obvious and obscure — to stir your senses with imaginative, whimsical expressions of public creativity.
Wells' article references a treasure trove of urban murals--many whimsical, many created or refurbished by area students--and many in unlikely locations.
Equally in an unlikely location, the Forest Springs Bed & Breakfast at the Historic Heiney House is a quiet oasis in the midst of urban sprawl. The innkeepers are avid gardeners, having added 15,000 (yes, 15 thousand) daffodil bulbs, 60 rose bushes and 30 miniature Japanese maples to the original cedars, firs and native maples.
Breakfasts are highly nutritious, savory dishes. Innkeeper Patrick Arbuckle prepares "slow food" with emphasis on fresh, local, and organic ingredients. Plenty of fresh coffee and loose-leaf tea round out the sumptious meal.
Forest Springs B&B is also one of the Guild's popular Oregon wedding sites, hosting intimate weddings and events up to 100 guests. If you're looking for green lodging, the Forest Springs B&B is one of our leaders in the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.
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