What’s New
The Perfect Present: New Winter Getaways
We’ve got an early holiday gift for you: the scoop on exciting new lodging properties across Oregon. The Independence Hotel is the latest addition to the charming, historic town of Independence, situated on the banks of the Willamette River. In the heart of wine country and just 15 minutes from Oregon’s capital, this hotel makes for a perfect weekend escape. Next, head to the snowy Cascade Mountains in Central Oregon to enjoy a local craft beverage on The Rooftop of the stylish, newly-restored Hotel Redmond. An SCP hotel, the Hotel Redmond focuses on three elements of service: Soul (personal wellness), Community (social good) and Planet (mindful sustainability), with 49 rooms furnished with regionally-sourced materials. And for those looking for a cozy wintry getaway, check out the new Antone Creek Lodge, just nine miles from Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort in Eastern Oregon. Choose from one of four cabins that offer all the comforts of home in a stunning wilderness setting.
Airstreams, Spartans and Shastas, Oh My!
Just because winter is coming doesn’t mean the camping fun has to end. At these extraordinary glamping destinations, you’ll want to camp in every season and for any reason. In the heart of the Willamette Valley lies The Vintages Trailer Resort, with a lane of 35 fully-restored retro campers that will take you back in time. Their newest addition, the 1956 Spartan Imperial Mansion, comes replete with an outdoor soaking tub, king-size bed, full-size shower and a ton of style. On the Oregon Coast, there are two new, unique glamping accomodations that might make you want to pack up your tent for good. At Hart’s Camp in Pacific City, cozy up with your furry friend in a luxury Airstream after a day of coastal adventures. In Coos Bay, on the beautiful South Coast, the new Bay Point Landing offers guests the choice of modern cabins, Airstreams or luxe RV sites. Amenities and activities abound: Take in the coastal air and go clamming at low-tide on the private beach (they provide the gear), go for a swim in the salt water indoor heated pool, hang fireside at the communal Clubhouse, stock up with local goods at the general store, or, just kick your feet up and enjoy the bayside tranquility.
You Better Squatch Out
After seven years of searching the world for Sasquatch on the Animal Planet series Finding Bigfoot, Cliff Barackman has settled his research roots in Clackamas County, aka the area with the highest number of alleged Bigfoot sightings in Oregon. The North American Bigfoot Center is now open and welcoming believers and skeptics by the dozens. Upon stepping into the center, it’s clear that the legend of Bigfoot is taken seriously here. Visitors are greeted by Murphy, a life-size replica of the elusive cryptid himself. Squatchy selfie anyone? The rest of the center is filled with educational and interactive exhibits, historical documents, rare artifacts, a small movie theater and a gift show with plenty of Sasquatch memorabilia. The town of Boring just got a lot less boring with the arrival of Mr. Barackman and Bigfoot.
Cheers to a New Generation of Sparkling
The sparkling wine scene is bubbling up in Oregon, just in time for the holiday season. What historically have been only a few wineries —notably Argyle and Soter— devoting themselves to bubbles, is now a burgeoning number of producers. Have a favorite Oregon winery? There’s a chance they’re turning their famous Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes into Champagne-quality vintages for your holiday toast. A few ideas to get you started: In Carlton in the northern Willamette Valley, Flâneur Wines just released their 2016 Extra Brut Sparkling Wine. It’s a barrel fermented delicious blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Enjoy a taste in their newly renovated 120+ year old grain elevator turned tasting room. Additionally, there are several Oregon producers who have also released their first sparkling vintages – Lytle-Barnett, ArborBrook, Brittan, Ayoub, Winderlea, Lachini, Furioso Vineyards and Duck Pond. Now get to sippin’ because after all, fizz the season!