The valley follows the Willamette River north to south for more than 100 miles from the Mt. Hood Territory east of Portland south to Lane County. It is a quilt of cities and towns that offer unique experiences for everyone, from rural enclaves that pop up between expanses of farms and fields, to serene college towns with historic inns and classic main streets to cities alive with culture and heritage, including the state capitol of Salem.
Even the three bears would be pleased with lodging options now available in Oregon wine country’s Yamhill Valley.
That’s because Distinctive Destinations offers three choices, each with different features and amenities to make sure guests feel just right about their overnight accommodations. There’s the Lions Gate Inn in Newberg where the entire bear family could stay by taking over all four suites in the B&B. In fact, the inn is so spacious they could invite a few woodland friends and Goldilocks too!
For privacy in a fairytale-like home in the woods, the Lake House would be the best choice for the bears or anyone else. But for a meeting, party or wedding, Vineyard Ridge with its spacious living quarters and entertaining area on the lower level would be the best bet.
If you plan a trip to Oregon this year, you’ll want to check out these three properties, each stamped with the unique style of owner Loni Austin Parrish, an artist, designer and owner of local art gallery ART Elements
The Lake House—Guests have come from around the world to stay in the Lake House, in an area so secluded there is no address available until you get a key from the property manager.
Once you arrive at this beautiful property, you’ll know why the owner prefers to keep it a secret—except to those lucky enough to rent it for a few nights or perhaps a week. The Lake House is something between a gingerbread house and a small castle. And the aqua lake just off the back deck beckons visitors to come sit a while. Rhododendrons bloom, deer come to visit and frogs sing a lullaby as guests take in the peace and quiet.
Add in a full kitchen, dining area, living room and three bedrooms and you’ll soon see why any family—bears or otherwise—would declare the Lake House to be not too big, not too small but just right.
Vineyard Ridge—If the Lake House is a fantasy property, then Vineyard Ridge could be called a wine baron’s retreat. It’s easy to pretend that you own acres of pinot noir grapes as you survey the surrounding property and its neighboring vineyards. A koi pond just off the elevated deck and a stunning view of the Cascade mountain range are designed to soothe the soul.
Inside you’ll find two master suites with king beds and private baths while the fully equipped kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances and a large living-dining area.
Come evening, you may invite guests in for a party or event because the fully furnished lower level of the house is well equipped for preparation of an al fresco meal or cocktail party. Just hire a chef or prepare a do-it-yourself buffet to create a most memorable summer evening. Most of all, enjoy some of the world’s best Pinot Noirs directly from vineyards and tasting rooms in the immediate area.
Lions Gate Inn—Located in Newberg, Ore., the Lions Gate Inn B&B is in close proximity to wineries, art galleries and some of the finest restaurants in the region.
Fresh, seasonal ingredients are featured in each day’s gourmet breakfast. In addition, guests are treated to wine and cheese each afternoon.
Built in 1911, the home has been lovingly restored by Loni Austin Parrish to include four guest rooms, each with a private bathroom. Spring, summer, fall and winter are represented in a four seasons color and décor theme.
Guests can step back in time with such original architectural features as leaded and stained glass windows, woodwork, staircase, front porch and built-ins in the living and dining rooms. The Inn’s discreet solar panel, energy-saving appliances, recycled building materials and all-natural bedding qualify it as a “green” property.
Because of a special relationship between Distinctive Destinations and several area wineries, guests staying at any of these three properties may take advantage of special discounts on wine or enjoy complimentary tastings as they take a loop tour through part of the scenic North Willamette Valley. Among wineries participating are Vidon, Adelsheim, ArborBrook, Trisaetum, Aramenta, WillaKenzie, Four Graces, Penner-Ash, and more.
For more information, visit www.distinctivedestination.net or call 503-476-2211.
