Oregon Wine Country Lodging and the Willamette Valley Wine Regions

Wednesday, April 17, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

The Willamette Valley, Oregon's largest AVA (American Vitaculture Area), stretches 150 miles from Portland, Oregon. to south of Salem and consists of six sub-appellations.  200 wineries and 10,000 acres of quality Oregon After a day exploring the Willamette Valley, return to the comfort of an Oregon Bed and Breakfastwine grapes.  The rich, diverse soil and relatively mild climate make for ideal grape growing conditions.  All this combined with warm summer days and cool nights allows the wine grapes to develop their flavor and complexity.

Being "stewards of the land", a large percentage of Oregon's winemakers are certified as sustainable, organic, or biodynamic.  Sustainability is both a priority and lifestyle even for those not certified.

The Willamette Valley region there has numerous Oregon Bed and Breakfast inns, unique amongst themselves yet each providing the consistent high standards of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  Oregon Wine Country Lodging is a place where visitors can visit the wineries and find great shopping, fine dining and lively art communities.  During the summer months roadside farm stands and farmers markets appear all through the Valley.  Other outdoor adventures include birdwatching, hiking, and nearly 40 public golf courses!  

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.

Visit the Willamette Valley in Oregon and experience fine Oregon Wine Country Lodging at the member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  Salut!

Our Geocaching in Oregon Is Hand Crafted And Build to Last

Sunday, April 14, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

Oregon Geocaching ~ Fun for the whole family'Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people, from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment.  Geocaching.com is the headquarters for the activity"

Did you know that Geocaching started right here in Oregon?  A little history lesson, the full version can be read on the Geocaching.com history page from where I've gotten this information.

"Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment.  Geocaching.com is the headquarters for the activity"  On this site you can read the history of Geocaching.

* On May 2, 2000, at approximately midnight, eastern savings time, the great blue switch* controlling selective availability was pressed. Twenty-four satellites around the globe processed their new orders, and instantly the accuracy of GPS technology improved tenfold. Tens of thousands of GPS receivers around the world had an instant upgrade. Now, anyone could "precisely pinpoint their location or the location of items (such as game) left behind for later recovery." How right they were.

* On May 3 a GPS enthusiast, Dave Ulmer, computer consultant, wanted to test the accuracy by hiding a navigational target in the woods. He called the idea the "Great American GPS Stash Hunt" and posted it in an internet GPS users' group. The idea was simple: Hide a container out in the woods and note the coordinates with a GPS unit.  On May 3rd he placed his own container, a black bucket, in the woods near Beavercreek, Oregon, near Portland.

* Within three days, two different readers read about his stash on the Internet, used their own GPS receivers to find the container, and shared their experiences online.  Like many new and innovative ideas on the Internet, the concept spread quickly - but this one required leaving your computer to participate.

* Within the first month, Mike Teague, the first person to find Ulmer's stash, began gathering the online posts of coordinates around the world and documenting them on his personal home page. The "GPS Stash Hunt" mailing list was created to discuss the emerging activity.

* Geocaching.com was released to the stash-hunting community on September 2, 2000. At the time the site was launched there were 75 known caches in the world.  There are now over 1.5 million caches around the world, in only 12 years.'

This is certainly the condensed version.  Visit Geocaching.com history for the full story.  I checked to see if the Original Cache was still available, but alas, it has been archived and the Un-Original Stash placed in it's honor.  The links will take you to their listing on Geocaching.com but if you are not logged in I'm not sure if you will be able to view.  

Geocaching is Eco Friendly Travel at it's best .  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, a geocaching adventure 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

Spring Break Special in Carlton Oregon through April 2013

Sunday, March 10, 2013 by Heather Tyreman

Here's a special you won't want to miss in the Oregon Wine Country!  

Roselyn, innkeeper of the R. R. Thompson House in Carlton, invites you to enjoy a Spring Break Special.  For the rest of March 2013 and through the month of April 2013 only, you can:

  • book one night and get the second night half off;
  • book two nights and get the third night free! 

Please call the inn directly to reserve this special rate: (503) 852-6236  

Spring is a special time to visit the Willamette Valley.  The daffodils are in bloom and soon many flowering trees will be at the peak of beauty. 

The R. R. Thompson House is walking distance to nearly 20 wine tasting rooms and a short driving distance to many world-class wineries found in the Oregon Wine Country.  Located only 40 miles from Portland, Oregon, and 60 miles from the Oregon Coast, this inn makes a perfect central location for your Spring Break getaway.

And you'll stay in luxury.  Although the house was originally constructed in 1936, today this authentic Oregon home boasts two spacious suites and three intimate guestrooms, each appointed with marble tiled baths and jetted tubs and either a king or queen-sized pillow top mattress and crisp, luxury linens.

Hungry yet?  Make your Spring Break a culinary vacation too.  The R. R. Thompson House features a bountiful breakfast with specialties like Brie omlettes and house-baked pastries.  You can read more about this wonderful inn from a previous blog post here.

Visit the R. R. Thompson House soon and "like" them on Facebook too!

Feller House Bed and Breakfast and the Aurora Colony

Thursday, January 10, 2013 by Mary Pellegrini

Aurora in Marion County, Oregon, just south of Portland.  Peacefully established in the mid-1800's and located near the Oregon Wine Country, Aurora has a rich past and charming atmosphere.  It was founded as a religious commune in 1856 by Dr. William Keil who named it after his daughter.  The secret is out on this quaint village known as 'Oregon's antique capital'.

Feller House Bed and Breakfast near McMinnville OregonThe 1860 farmhouse that is now the Feller House Bed and Breakfast is located in a beautiful country setting, minutes from Aurora.  Enjoy time away at this historic inn, built on Oregon's famous French Prairie where hops became a cash crop in the 1860's and still are today.  Conveniently located near the I-5 interstateand half way between Salem and Portland, you'll find a warm and inviting atmosphere, two delightful guest rooms, a wholesome breakfast, and personal attention awaits you at the Feller House. 
 

Old Aurora Colony Museum
The centerpiece of this National Historic District formed in 1974, their missions is to promote interactive lifelong learning by inspiring curiosity about the heritage of the Aurora Colony (1856-1883).  Visit the five-building complex of the 1862 Ox Barn, 1875 Steinbach Cabin, Summer Kitchen, 1864 Kraus House, and Tie Shed reproduction.  All furnished as they would have been during the colony period.  Artifacts include furniture, tools, music instruments, clothing, textiles, spinning wheels, photos, samplers, quilts, and much more.  Learn the story of this German communal society and their travel from Missouri to the Oregon Territory to find a new Eden.

Feller House Bed and Breakfast for was Lodging in OregonMember innsof the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild's are the only inspected and approved Bed and Breakfast Inns in Oregon.  Our mission is to assure travelers of consistently high standards in a variety of accommodations.  Our member inns are inspected and approved and all meet or surpass our guidelines.  We are proud to have Feller House Bed and Breakfast in the Guild.  We are sure you will enjoy the calm, quiet setting this inn provides in the vast Willamette Valley of Oregon, perfect Oregon Wine Country Lodging.

Master Jacksonville In Just 2 Days

Monday, June 4, 2012 by Heather Tyreman

TouVelle House in Jacksonville, Oregon, is the perfect place for exploring this authentic Oregon town.No one knows a town quite like the innkeepers who live there.  And Jacksonville, Oregon, is no exception.  Southern Oregon innkeeper Tim Balfour of the iconic TouVelle House provides a few ideas of how you can master Jacksonville in just two days. . .and consider the authentic Oregon TouVelle House as home base for your Southern Oregon explorations.  Give Tim a call at 541-899-8938 and let him know you're ready to start your romantic weekend getaway that might just include a little bit of education on the side.

Giving History a Personal Perspective – Many towns claim a historic status, so it is fun to come across a place like Jacksonville Oregon where people are “living history”.  The town is fortunate to still have the look and feel from its heyday in the late 1800’s.  That is because during the first part of the 1900’s it fell into an economic coma that allowed for its preservation by neglect. All of the commercial buildings and homes remained untouched by “updates”, which had the unexpected benefit of retaining the town’s historical architecture.  In addition to being able to appreciate the charming setting you can also get a peek at the personal histories behind the town through a combination of presentations and tours being offered.

Historical Cemetery Tour in Jacksonville in Southern OregonThe second Saturdays of the month through November offer two special history programs, a cemetery tour in the morning and tours of the town’s wealthiest pioneer family in the afternoon.  Start the day with “History Saturday in the Jacksonville Cemetery”, a guided tour focusing on a specific topic or section of the cemetery provided by the Friends of Jacksonville’s Historic Cemetery.  Tours begin at 10:00 am and are about 1.5 hours long.  June’s tour focuses on the Independent Order of Odd Fellows section and the stories of the pioneers buried there.  Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes, and meet the docents at the top of Cemetery Road.  The program is free however, donations are always appreciated to support the restoration and preservation work.  Additional tours are scheduled for July 14, August 11,

Beekman House in Jacksonville OregonNext, make reservations for a special narrated “Closets and Cupboards” tour of The C.C. Beekman House, home to one of Southern Oregon’s most prominent pioneers.  Built and lived in by only the one family, the home remains completely furnished with family artifacts.  This special living history tour of the home and its newly restocked closets and cupboards will be offered at noon and 2:30 pm on June 9, July 14, and August 11.

“The year is 1932.  Julia Beekman has passed away. Daughter Carrie has moved to Portland where her brother Ben has been living for the past 43 years. Carrie and Ben are going through the closets and cupboards prior to closing up the Beekman House and reminiscing about “growing up Beekman”.  And you are invited to visit.”

Cost for the tours is $20 which includes the history talk and either a picnic lunch or a “strawberry tea.”  Tours require a minimum of 10 people, limited to a maximum of 15 and are by advance reservations only.  Additional dates and times are possible for group bookings.  Call 541-245-3650 or email info@jvilleheritage.org to make your individual reservations or to book your group.  Proceeds of the tours go toward the preservations and maintenance of the Beekman House, through the Jacksonville Hertiage Society.

There will also be themed historical tours focusing on different aspects of the Victorian era and the Beekman family on the 3rd Saturdays of each month through November.  Topics include architecture, art, cooking and menus and travel.

You can cap your day off with a narrated trolley tour of the historic homes and commercial district.  The trolley runs hourly and gives you an overview of the town in addition to some special personal histories that you won’t hear anywhere else.  In addition to the history, Jacksonville is once again bustling with independently owned boutiques, bistros and restaurants and is proud to be the epicenter of the Southern Oregon Wine Region with over 70 wineries.  A great getaway that is still relatively unknown.  You can check out what all is going on in Jacksonville at www.JacksonvilleOregon.com.

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

Saturday, May 26, 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 of B&Bs 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.
 

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

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

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

The West Cascades Scenic Byway ~ An Oregon Scenic Byway

Thursday, May 24, 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 of B&Bs 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.

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

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

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

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

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!

Kelty Estate Bed and Breakfast ~ Historic Oregon Wine Country Lodging

Friday, April 6, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Whatever your pleasure—romantic getaway, playing hookey from work, change of pace, touring Oregon's Wine Country or even a quiet weekend just for you, you can find it at the Kelty Estate Bed and Breakfast.

Kelty Estate Bed and BreakfastAn inspected and approved inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, Kelty Estate is located in one of Oregon's many wine country regions and is just 48 miles from Portland, 60 miles from beautiful beaches at Lincoln City or zero miles from the most relaxing holiday you have ever enjoyed.

Built in 1872 in historic Lafayette, Oregon, the Kelty Estate B&B is located in the McMinnville area and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The proud, white house with green trim is surrounded by lawns, gardens and two hundred year old native trees. Painstaking restoration has left the interior with a new feeling, while graceful architectural details and selected antiques recall another era.

Enjoy a 3-course, gourmet breakfast made from fresh, locally grown ingredients. You can enjoy local wine in the afternoon, a fireplace and player piano in the parlor, the pond, wishing well and beautiful landscaping. Book our limo for your wine tour.

Enjoy a three course breakfast at Kelty Estate Bed and breakfastAfter a day of touring the backroads of the Willamette Valley return to this 5 room inn and enjoy  omplimentary wine and cheese, take a nap and then go out to dinner in one of the fine local restaurants and enjoy the fare followed by a wonderful rest in one of our fantastic rooms.

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.

Portland #1 in Serving up Street Food

Saturday, March 31, 2012 by Mary Pellegrini

Culinary Tourists, listen up.  You'd travel miles for the best Street-Food.  Even plan whole culinary vacations around Street-Food.  Well, you need only travel to Portland, Oregon for the very best in Street Food.  #1 in the World in fact according to Budget Travel and US News Travel

"With more than 400 carts selling everything from Korean tacos to Carolina-style barbecue, Food Carts Portland is a microcosm of mobile meals, " according to Marisa Robertson-Textor.

Lunchtime crowds gather near SW 10th Avenue and SW Alder Street; later on, night owls head across the river to SE 12th Avenue and SE Hawthorne Boulevard for deep-fried cherry pies and savory crepes, served until 2 a.m.

Food Carts Portland has a list of cuisine categories, locations and maps.  From Baked Potatoes to Vietnamese to Turkish to Sicilian, you'll find more than 50 different carts.  "Like" Food Carts Portland on Facebook.

Start your Culinary Vacation at a Portland Bed and Breakfast where we serve up the very best in Oregon Slow Food, right from the Farmers Market to you.  Then "graze" through Portland and see what we already knew, Portland has the "World's Best Street Food".

Eat Mobile, Portland’s Food Cart Festival, will be held at OMSI this year on Saturday April 28. Fifty different street food vendors will serve up samples of their creations to the throngs of fans who will eat it up while enjoying an adult beverages and some live music. All proceeds from the event go to Mercy Corp Northwest’s local economic development program which assists entrepreneurs in securing funds for small businesses, including food carts.

Just another reason to visit Portland, Oregon and regional member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.  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.

Check in from the McKenzie River Inn B&B in the lush forests of the Central Cascades

Friday, September 30, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
Guest Blogger ~ Bert DeKlerk
Innkeeper, McKenzie River Inn B&B and Cabins

McKenzie River Inn B&B and Cabins Yeah, we all have that feeling.... October?  What happened?  Did this summer fall short.  Was it not so hot or is an Indian summer on it's way?  Either way, the kids are back in school and the salmon are spawning.  It must be that fall is around the corner.  Yes, July was colder and more wet than June and business was slow, but here came August.  Some of the highlights: - the Reppert/Weinberg bi-annual family reunion took place with even more participants then before, but even that week with Bocce ball, rafting, golf and great food was over before we knew it.  Then came September.  Sure we had a great rafting adventure with a group of people from the Leatherman company from Portland which was awesome, because I met again with James Schmidt and his family and I hooked up with some great people, Tanya and Tim Mooney, relatively new guides on the river, from TnT White Water Rafting and what a blast we had going through Martin Rapids four times in succession.
Rafting the McKenzie River in the lush Central Cascade Range.
So here we are,  August and September made up for July regarding over night bookings and October is just a couple of days shy from changing the calendar.

Earlier this week I heard on the radio, I'm sure it was on OPB, that scientists discovered 'new' sub-atomic particles that can travel faster than light. Although this need to be verified by the scientific community it would make a big impact since it would throw over Einstein's theory that nothing can travel faster than light and therefore time travel is not possible. But if this is true and scientifically established and those particles are faster than light.  Well,can we then go back to June 2011?  For I just loved this summer with all its weather idiosyncrasies and those many guests we saw coming back to our spot on the river and all those rafting and fishing trips I have been doing with so many people, young and less young, familiar and new!

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

Sunday, August 14, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

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

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



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

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.

Visit Historic Downtown Gresham Art Walk on July 16, 2011

Saturday, July 9, 2011 by Heather Tyreman

10th Annual Gresham Art Walk in Historic Downtown Gresham Oregon always the third Saturday in July


Forest Springs Bed and Breakfast along with The Gresham Historic Downtown Boosters are proud to announce our city's 10th Annual Gresham Art Walk!

During the Gresham Art Walk, more than 140 artists from Oregon and Southwest Washington will sell their original works along scenic Main Avenue between First and Fifth streets. The family event also includes live music, free children’s arts and crafts, and unique shops and restaurants in the downtown core. Art for sale includes garden art, pottery, photography, jewelry, watercolors, textiles, glass, wood, oil paintings and much more. Plus you can always meet the artists behind the work!

Always the third Saturday in July. . .this year it's July 16th, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Historic Downtown Gresham

If you're traveling to the Portland Oregon area for this event, consider staying close by at Forest Springs Bed and Breakfast.  This inn is one of the founding members of the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild's Green Lodging Certification program and is an eco friendly travel option (not to mention a gorgeous setting and great food too).

See you at the Gresham Art Walk!

Portland Oregon's A Painted Lady Inn is Voted "Best for Nearby Museums"

Saturday, June 25, 2011 by Heather Tyreman
A Painted Lady Inn Portland Oregon lodging wins Best of Nearby Museums Award from Pamela Lanier's Bed & Breakfast Inns 2011 competitionIt never seems to end that Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild members keep winning awards.  This time it's the 2011 Guests' Greatest Picks competition hosted by Pamela Lanier's Bed & Breakfast Inns.  And the winner in the category "Best for Nearby Museums" is (drum roll please). . .Oregon's own A Painted Lady Inn located in Portland!

(Not a small feat, mind you, considering that this is a national competition!)


Innkeeper Jody Runge offers the following about her Portland Oregon lodging:  "Located in vibrant, hip Northeast Portland, A Painted Lady Inn offers a calm oasis in the heart of the city. Just steps from wonderful shops and fine restaurants, A Painted Lady will be your Portland home-away-from-home."

Come home to comfort after seeing Portland Oregon museums at A Painted Lady InnThe secret?  Great public transportation via the Portland Max Line and the Portland Trolley will take you to anywhere in Portland Oregon's downtown core.  Visit the Portland Art Museum, the Portland Children's Museum and the Oregon Historical Society's Museum all from the comfort of the MAX line or the Portland Trolley.

And when the day is done, hit Portland's funky restaurant scene for a little bit of culinary tourism on your way home to A Painted Lady.  And vote for the inn in Pamela Lanier's 2012 Guests' Greatest Picks competition!

4 Ts and some B&B's

Sunday, June 5, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini
I really am a country girl.  That's why my inn is in the country, in a little town about 10 blocks square, near the Mt Hood National Forest where I can hike to my hearts content and enjoy quiet quiet nights.  But every once in a while I like to go into the city.  Take in the hustle and bustle, visit shops and coffee houses, enjoy culinary surprises, ride mass transit.  I love it.  So when I overheard my Portland guests suggesting to our Portland bound Minnesota guests the 4T Trail I was all ears.  We had to go into Portland so after a bit of research on the trail we headed out Monday morning.  Plan:  Drive the hour and a half into Portland, do the 4T Trail then run errands, mixing adventure with necessity. 
it is spring and the Trillium are in full bloom
Starting at the parking lot of the Washington Park Max Station, the 4 mile Trail section takes you through the thick forests of the West Hills, to Portland's highest point, Counsil Crest, and on into OHSU.  Oregon Health and
Science University has a campus on the hills overlooking Portland and the Cascade Range.  A few years ago a Tram was built to connect OSHU and the Waterfront and it has become quite a tourist destination.  Take the tram down to the waterfront, disembark and walk about 50 steps and catch the Portland Trolley to downtown.  then the OSHU Tram with Mt Hood in the DistanceTrain (Max) back to your car.

One canThe Third T of the 4T Trail, The Portland Trolley to downtown begin the loop at any point and the trail is marked numerous places, even downtown.  We hiked the trail first, arrived downtown in time for lunch and a gelato, with plenty of time to stroll, before heading taking the Train back.

This is one of many urban hikes in Portland.  Combine one of these with Portland Oregon Lodging at a unique bed and breakfast and you have the perfect Oregon Geotourism Adventure.  Visit the Portland region of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild website and select an inn in the West Hills, many just a short drive, or Max train, to the Washington Park Max Station.

A Painted Lady Inn ~ A Portland Oregon Bed and Breakfast

Friday, June 3, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

A Painted Lady Inn ~ a Portland Oregon Bed and BreakfastLocated in vibrant, hip Northeast Portland, A Painted Lady Bed and Breakfast Inn offers a calm oasis in the heart of the city. Just steps from wonderful shops and fine restaurants, A Painted Lady will be your Portland home-away-from-home.

Built in 1894 and renovated to its full Victorian glory, A Painted Lady will cosset you from the rush of today's world. But do take advantage of the urban location by shopping at Lloyd Center, Oregon's largest mall, located just six blocks from A Painted Lady. Or hop on Max, Portland's excellent light rail transportation system that will take you anywhere in the downtown core area for free. Dinner in the Pearl District, theatre downtown, a Blazers game or concert at the Rose Garden - it's all within a few minutes of A Painted Lady. Stay for one night, or let us create a fun Portland package just for you!

After a restful sleep in one of three beautiful, comfy rooms, you will be treated to a sumptuous breakfast. Breakfast may be requested in your room between 9:00 and 10:00 or in the dining room at your request.

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.

A Gift of Pampering for Mother's Day at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inn

Thursday, April 28, 2011 by Mary Pellegrini

Mother's Day is just a few weeks out.  Wanting to give the perfect gift?  Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Lodging Gift Vouchers can be just that.  When giving the gift of lodging you will be giving the gift of a unique Oregon experience.  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 or snow shoe along the rim of Crater Lake.  Catch a new museum exhibit in Portland.  Ski world class snow.  Sample a pinot noir in the Oregon Wine Country.  That will be their choice

Moms like to spend their special day with their families.  But we all know some pampered time away is also so very much appreciated.  Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Lodging Gift Vouchers give the gift of relaxation, time away from the everyday.

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.

It's not just about the lodging.  It's about the time and experience

Use the button on the right side of the blog to order OBBG Lodging Gift Vouchers


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.  We're good at keeping secrets, too, so Mom needn't have a clue.

It's that simple.  Not much of your time, but an appreciated gift of time for your recipient.  What are you waiting for?  Share the gift of lodging at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.

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

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!!