Tag Archives: geotourism

The videos of Travel Oregon’s Oregon, Only Slightly Exaggerated reveal whimsical scenes of enchanting forests, vineyards, rivers, mountains and more, and share with you that magical feeling of being in Oregon.

Now the captivating artwork is coming to the real world, proudly hand-painted on walls in Oregon where the illustrations represent the destinations.   Let the Oregon Mural Trail inspire you to get outside and experience the wonders of each community.  Take photos of the murals and use the hashtag #OregonIsMagic in social posts to share the love.  And while you’re there, visit the landmarks and businesses that make these towns just so magical.

The featured mural is in Ontario’s Red Apple Mall. At Oregon’s eastern edge and in a different time zone, Ontario is the gateway to desert beauty, stunning river canyons and towering mountain ranges. Any time of year, this little town is a great sunny destination and basecamp to outdoor adventures at the Owyhee Canyonlands, Lake Owyhee, Pillars of Rome and more. Make time for Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum, which honors the area’s cultural heritage, Native American, Basque, European, Hispanic and Japanese.

There are several Oregon Trail Sites sights from the Idaho border to Baker City,  the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center offers living history demonstrations, interpretive programs, exhibits, multi-media presentations, special events, and more than four miles of interpretive trails.  From the top of Flagstaff Hill you can still see the trail running out across the plains.

Baker City Blue Door will be the first member in of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild as you travel into Oregon.  The historic home of two prominent Oregonians, the Inn is a simple and elegant get-away to rest and relax. Located on a tree-lined residential street, the inn is in the heart of historic downtown Baker City.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Oregon Mural Trail

The videos of Travel Oregon’s Oregon, Only Slightly Exaggerated reveal whimsical scenes of enchanting forests, vineyards, rivers, mountains and more, and share with you that magical feeling of being in Oregon.

Now the captivating artwork is coming to the real world, proudly hand-painted on walls in Oregon where the illustrations represent the destinations.   Let the Oregon Mural Trail inspire you to get outside and experience the wonders of each community.  Take photos of the murals and use the hashtag #OregonIsMagic in social posts to share the love.  And while you’re there, visit the landmarks and businesses that make these towns just so magical.

The featured mural was dedicated yesterday in The Dalles,Oregon. A historic city on the sunny eastern end of the Columbia River Gorge, The Dalles is fortunate to have easy access to rivers, hiking trails and scenic drives.

Lodging options in the Columbia River Gorge, the inns of the Mt Hood and The Gorge region

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hood River Valley

October is National Apple Month

October is recognized as National Apple Month and Oregon is among the leaders in fine apple production.  Apples are a member of the rose family of plants and the blossoms are much like wild-rose blossoms.  Oregon produces over 21 commercial apple varieties, with Fuji and Gala leading the state’s production but we know of one orchard, Kiyokawa Family Orchards in the Hood River Valley that grow over 90 different varieties! The state’s rainfall and mild climate make it a prime location for apple orchards. The most orchards can be found in Oregon’s northwestern region near and around Portland.  In 2015 Oregon produced an estimated 110 million pounds of apples.

History of the Apple – Oregon Growers

In 1847, Henderson Luelling brought more than 700 one year old grafted fruit trees from Iowa to Oregon by ox-team along with his wife and 8 children.  Today, in front of a military building in the city of Vancouver, WA, an historic apple tree with a plaque on it records the following story: ‘In 1847, Henderson Lewelling, know for promoting the fruit industry in Iowa, Oregon, and California, came to Oregon in a covered wagon with his wife, children and 350 fruit trees that had survived the long journey.’  It goes on to say ‘By 1850, their first crop produced 100 apples. It was the time of the Gold Rush in California, and when they rushed to San Francisco with the apple crop, prospectors were so hungry for fresh fruit that he sold them for $5 each. They used the money to build more orchards.’

Today, the Hood River Valley is one of the major growers of apples.  Kiyokawa Family Orchards in the Hood River Valley have been growing the finest produce available since 1911. The fertile soils found at the base of Mt. Hood and rarified, glacier-fed water sources create a unique growing environment.  The Kiyokawa’s take pride in promoting local and sustainably grown produce and utilize a farm management system that incorporates best management practices.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Central and Eastern Oregon Museums

Central and Eastern Oregon Museums Worth making the trip

The Central and Eastern Oregon museums will take you back in time. A glimpse into an ever changing Oregon, it’s indigenous people, hearty immigrants, and hard working cattlemen.

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute where the history, culture and hospitality of the people who have lived on this land for more than 10,000 years comes alive.  More than just a museum, Tamastslikt celebrates the traditions of Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes.

High Desert Museum, in Bend, Oregon, is nationally acclaimed and is dedicated to broadening the understanding of the High Desert’s wildlife, culture, art and natural resources.

At daily shows and demonstrations, wildlife experts will help you learn about the Museum’s more than 100 wildlife creatures — from porcupines, golden eagles and owls, to bats, lizards, snakes and spiders.   In the Birds of Prey Center you will have a rare opportunity to get a close-up look at some of nature’s fiercest predators – owls, hawks and eagles.

Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site in John Day, Oregon, is a must-see for anyone with an interest in Oregon history. This structure was built as a trading post on The Dalles Military Road in the mid-1800’s. Chinese businessman Lung On and herbal doctor Ing Hay worked out of this building. Dr. Hay administered care to the Chinese gold-mine workers, pioneers, and others from the John Day area and beyond by using traditional Chinese remedies. Built to preserve the legacy of the Chinese workforce in Oregon, the museum contains artifacts and displays that share some of the trials of everyday life of these people.

They walked for 2,000 miles…men, women, and children by the tens of thousands. The story of this journey comes alive today through the life-size exhibits at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Baker City.  The museum offers living history demonstrations, interpretive programs, exhibits, multi-media presentations, special events, and more than four miles of interpretive trails. Let the innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild share their knowledge of these unique museums and many other natural attractions in the beautiful and vast expanse of Eastern Oregon.

These are but a few of the many historical museum located in Central and Eastern Oregon.  Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Lavender Daze

What do you think of when we say the word “Lavender”?  Aromatic, fragrant, relaxing, soothing are a few adjectives that come to mind.  Leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind, visit an Oregon Lavender Farm and prepare to relax.  During the weekend of July 8 – 9, 2017, over 30 Lavender Farms in Oregon will open their farms to tours, workshops and celebrations, many including food and music, during the peak of the lavender season.

I may be a little bias but my favorite lavender farm is Hood River Lavender Farms as it is just 8 miles from the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast.

Hood River Lavender Farms is a certified-organic u-pick lavender farm situated on the top of Straight Hill surrounded by orchards and offering amazing views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and the Hood River Valley below. It has a large wildflower garden, Oregon native wildflowers, in the center of the farm.

The farm is home to the annual Lavender DAZE Festival, July 21 featuring live music, local wines, 20+ local artisan booths, craft classes, kid activities and more. Picnic lunches are encouraged. Truly a unique and beautiful experience.  The bed and breakfast inns of the Mt Hood and Columbia River Gorge region, all members of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, have rooms available for the perfect, romantic weekend getaway.

Can’t make it to the Hood River Valley?  No problem as there are plenty of Lavender Destinations and Events planned across Oregon.  And certainly a bed and breakfast of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild near the one of your choice.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Wilson Ranches Retreat

Wheeler County Central Oregon Events and Wilson Ranches Retreat

Wheeler County Events and Wilson Ranches Retreat for true Pioneer hospitality!  At the ranch enjoy scenic horseback rides, cattle drives, hiking and 4X4 sunset ranch tours on a 9,000 acre working cattle ranch. Close to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, bass fishing, river rafting, and golfing.

Wilson Ranches Retreat can be your home base when visiting Central Oregon and attending Wheeler County Events.

Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival (July 6,7 & 8, 2018)
The Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival has grown steadily over its history and is noted for its pleasant rural atmosphere. The Festival takes place in the old pioneer town of Fossil in front of the beautiful brick courthouse, now over 100 years old.

Fossil Cruz-In (July 7, 2018)
Bring your lawn chairs, relax and enjoy the car show and live music. Entries begin at 9:30am and close at 11:30am. Awards at approximately 3:30pm. $15 pre-registration; $20 day of show.

Wheeler County Fair and Rodeo (August 8-12, 2018)
A traditional small town, county fair complete with 4-H livestock exhibits, a parade, NPRA rodeo action, live music, and a whole lot of family friendly fun.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

may is oregon wine month

May is Oregon Wine Month!   Willamette Valley Wines writes  “We celebrate Willamette Valley all year round, but especially during Oregon Wine Month,  when the entire state joins in commemoration of our beloved industry for the month of May,  offering special activities, tastings and promotions for the enjoyment of Oregon Wine.”

To celebrate Oregon Wine Month in May, wineries around the state come together to host collaborative events.  These events offer unique opportunities to taste and experience a variety of producers with ease, and to gain a deeper understanding of the variances and specialties of many of Oregon’s diverse micro-climates.  Some of these events are one-time affairs, some ongoing.

Less than 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon, the Columbia Gorge AVA includes land surrounding the Columbia River,  with vineyards and wineries in both Oregon and Washington.  Due to the unique climate and geography found in The Gorge, this AVA exhibits a wide range of micro climates in a relatively small region.  The innkeepers of the Columbia Gorge Region invite you to experience “A World of Wine in 40 Miles’

The Willamette Valley extends from Portland south to Eugene, and from the Coast Range to the Cascades.  There are currently 316 wineries in the Valley and as many vineyards.  Willamette Valley innkeepers can point you in the right direction.

Southern Oregon’s latitude and prevailing oceanic winds create a 7 month growing season that uniquely creates an ideal place to grow wine grapes.  Southern Oregon Winery Association and our Southern Oregon Inn invites you to tour the 5 regions of Southern Oregon with over 150 wineries.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Youngberg Hill Event Center

“Our event and wedding season has typically ended in October, and April and October events were always subject to weather,” said Wayne Bailey. “Our Event Center now allows our guests worry-free, year-round access to everything Youngberg Hill has to offer.”

Youngberg Hill Event Center complements the existing structures of Youngberg Hill Vineyards and Inn.  Located on a gorgeous hilltop setting outside of McMinnville, the expansive, All-Weather Event Center will allow for year-round wine events, weddings, concerts and more.

After years of planning and design, owner Nicolette Bailey oversaw the construction of a handsome, 3,600 square-foot building on the lawn behind the inn overlooking the vineyards and valley.  With a seating capacity of 200 guests, the building is enclosed and protected from the elements and takes advantage of the magnificent natural setting by way of eight glass rolling garage door-type openings that open up to the views while providing full shelter when inclement weather arrives.

The expansive Event Center has a poured and polished concrete floor and a ceiling trimmed with parquet fir strips.  Bright white walls provide the perfect backdrops for wedding decorations and photography. The eight glass garage doors offer views from three sides of the building, let in tons of natural light, and open quickly to seamlessly integrate the outdoors. Siding on the outside of the building mimics the stained cedar siding of the nine-room, lodge-style inn.

A new patio added approximately 900 square feet of poured and stamped concrete flooring and existing restrooms on the property are tucked into a hillside behind the new building and reached via covered walkway. The event site includes a catering kitchen, an outdoor wine-tasting bar and a circular concrete pad, all back-dropped by astonishing views of vineyards, farmlands and wooded hills.

Bookings for the Youngberg Event Center will be handled by Nicolette Bailey at 503-472-2727, or by emailing info@youngberghill.com.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Guest Blogger: Liz Bartholomew, innkeeper, Three Sleeps B&B

‘In 2002 we planted about 8 acres of vineyard on our Mosier, Oregon property.  We grow mainly syrah, tempranillo and viognier.  Our labyrinth has 5 varietals, syrah, tempranillo, petite verdot, cab franc and malbec.  They labyrinth grapes are fermented together to make, what is called, a field blend.  Guests at the bed and breakfast are encouraged to walk the Labyrinth.

‘Our winery and tasting room, Dominio IV in Carlton, Oregon, is owned by our daughter and son-in-law, Leigh Bartholomew and Patrick Reuter. We’ve been selected as a 2018 International Pinot Noir Celebration – IPNC – Featured Winery!   Dominio is Latin for feast and Spanish for territory or dominion.  The IV refers to four people, four seasons, four climates and four quadrants of the labyrinth.   We farm our grapes organically.  We truck our grapes from here to Carlton where all the wine is made.   We do purchase other grapes that we don’t grow, mainly Pinot Noir.  However, Leigh and Patrick have just planted some Pinot at their property in Carlton.

‘Our home was built 2007 and 2008 on our vineyard property.  We didn’t start out thinking B and B but it evolved into that as we were building. Three Sleeps Bed and Breakfast opened in 2010 using our two extra rooms originally designed for and still used periodically for our daughters and their families.   They each have their own bathroom, sitting area and outdoor patio.”

On a side note, I might add, as the creator of this blog post, that I’ve always been fascinated how Three Sleeps got its name:  It is reported that when the Lewis and Clark expedition came to the area of the Columbia River that is now Mosier in 1805, they asked the local Native Americans how far it was to the Pacific Ocean. The answer: “Three Sleeps”.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

4T

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4T and some B&Bs in Portland Oregon

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 awhile 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.

We started at the parking lot of the Washington Park Max Station at the Oregon Zoo.  The Trail section takes you through the thick forests of the West Hills, to Portland’s highest point, Council 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 Train (Max) back to your car.  There you have the 4 Ts

One can begin the loop at any point and the trail is marked numerous places, even downtown.  Since we hiked the trail first, we arrived downtown in time for lunch and a gelato, with plenty of time to stroll, before heading taking the Train back to our car.

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.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.