Archive for the ‘ Featured Lodging ’ Category

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Country House Inns has you covered in Jacksonville, Oregon

Thursday, November 17th, 2011

Enthusiasm washed over me when I first entered the small town of Jacksonville, Oregon.  Jacksonville is the type of small town I love to discover and explore…it’s quaint and charming with quality restaurants, parks, shopping and of course lodging.  The area is also the newest wine appellation, with a string of boutique wineries popping up along the Applegate River corridor.

The Country House Inns have several properties in and around the Jacksonville area…I ended up staying at one of their wine cottages, which is a small cluster of structures, each with cozy, distinctive and luxurious accommodations. My cottage had a king sized bed with high tread count Egyptian cotton sheets, a large flat screen TV, mini fridge with coffee maker, a modern bathroom with a large open-air shower.  My favorite part was the French doors opening up to a quaint little patio where I would enjoy a morning cup of coffee and check my email.



Downtown Jacksonville is pretty condensed and you can walk to just about anywhere you like…a park, a coffee shop or restaurant, to a wine tasting bar representing one of the local wineries.  Country House Inns Jacksonville are not set up as a typical B&B offering breakfast, but what they do offer is a $10 certificate per person to a number of great local restaurants.  Each morning I tried a different establishment, from the casual Pony Espresso, to the fine dining of the Jacksonville Inn.

A mere stone’s throw from the Wine Cottages is the McCully House, another Country House Inns’ property. The McCully House has been beautifully restored and maintained…and, is actually one of the oldest buildings in the state being used as an Inn.  The McCully House stands proudly on the corner as you enter downtown—it has a white picket fence that surrounds the property and is an iconic symbol of 19th century Jacksonville.

There are five rooms available in the McCully House, each with a different feel, from the two rooms upstairs, to the Library suite, to my favorite…the Kaizen suite.  The Kaizen is impeccably decorated with a contemporary Asian flair…the bathroom is like an oasis with French doors opening up to an inviting patio. Déjà Vu is a fine-dining bistro and wine bar adjacent to the McCully House…which looked quite good, however my visit was at the beginning of the week when the bistro is closed during the off-season.

I believe Country House Inns have five different properties in the Jacksonville area, but the only other one I had the privilege of seeing was the Wine Country Inn, which is set up a bit more like a traditional hotel, but with an emphasis on quality.   There are 32 rooms at the Country Wine Inn, with several Jacuzzi suites.

No matter your lodging needs in Jacksonville, Oregon, the Country House Inns can certainly accommodate.   There are so many cool and interesting things to do in and around Jacksonville; it makes for the perfect hub. Jacksonville is really the quintessential idyllic small town…I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and have no doubt you will too.

If you’ve been to Jacksonville, OR before, or stayed at one of the Country House Inn properties, please leave a comment below and let my readers and me know what you thought. Click the following link to see more of my pictures of the Country House Inns Jacksonville.  If you enjoyed this post and video, please click the “like” button below and share with your friends and family.

Country House Inns Contact Info:

Address: 830 N. 5th St., Jacksonville, Oregon 97530

Map: Click here

Phone: 541-899-2050 OR 800-367-1942

Web: CountryHouseInnsJacksonville.com

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Weasku Inn still Lures Guests; Anglers

Sunday, November 13th, 2011

The Weasku Inn (pronounced We-Ask-U) is a legendary resort dating to the early 1920s…back then you could get a room for just a buck.  The Inn is located near the banks of the mighty Rogue River just outside of Grants Pass, Oregon (named for Ulysses S. Grant), in the southern part of the state.

The Weasku Inn has played host to many notable guests over the years, from Clark Gable, Zane Grey, Walt Disney, Carole Lombard, Bing Crosby to President Herbert Hoover.  The lure for guests then, as well as today, are the cozy accommodations and world class fishing in a location of splendor that cannot be found in more populated areas. You can sit on a rock with your feet dangling in the river, lounge in a robe upon your own private veranda listening to birds chirp and rapids sing without a care for the time of day.

The Weasku has a number of accommodation levels available…from the lodge rooms, Jacuzzi suites, to cabin retreats.  They even have a riverside three bedroom house available for large families or as a gathering place for reunions, weddings, conferences or other special events.  I stayed in the cabin to the right, which was extremely private and spacious with a real wood-burning fireplace, Jacuzzi tub, luxurious king-size bed, and a veranda deck to enjoy my morning cup of coffee.



The ten acres of natural beauty on which the Weasku is situated is lushly landscaped with mature deciduous and evergreen trees peppering the grounds.  There are trails that meander throughout the property with plenty of seating along the way to stop and enjoy the sounds of wildlife or the rapids of the river.

While the Weasku Inn dates back nearly ninety years, you wouldn’t know it.  Back in the early 90s the Inn was certainly showing its age.  By 1993, hotelier Carl Johnson purchased the property and spent the next five painstaking years restoring the Weasku back to its glory days. In addition to restoring the Inn, a dozen cabin accommodations were constructed.

Today’s Weasku Inn guests are just as likely to be angling for some R&R as they are for Salmon.  Modern activities in the area include biking, kayaking, white-water rafting, jet boat excursions, antique shopping and wine tasting…all are just minutes from the Inn.

When the Weasku was originally constructed, I imagine its location was quite remote and serene.  Unfortunately, the area has grown up around the Inn and the tranquil area now experiences a rather constant hum from I-5 on the other side of the river, and highway 99 in front of the Inn.  As you meander through the grounds, your other senses may drown out the traffic noise, but for those more sensitive or aware, it’s worth noting.

The Inn also offers a continental breakfast, appetizers and wine hour, along with freshly baked cookies and milk during the evening hours.   The breakfast and appetizers are nothing to write home about, but the chocolate chip cookies with milk are certainly a great way to end the evening.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of the Weasku Inn.  If you’ve stayed at the Weasku, please post a comment below and let my readers and me know what you think.  If you’ve found this post and video to be interesting and/or helpful, please click the “like” button below and share with your friends and family.

Weasku Inn Information:

5560 Rogue River Hwy
Grants Pass, Oregon
541-471-8000
Map: Click here
Website: WeAskUInn.com

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Posted in Featured Lodging, Oregon | 2 Comments »

Chalet View Lodge is a Venerated and Indelible Experience

Friday, November 11th, 2011

I love it when I find one of those cliché “hidden gems” located off a beaten path, because that’s what typifies Mike’s Road Trip.  I get ardent when I find an “undiscovered” place that other travel writers have yet to notice…it makes me feel as though I’m doing justice to my readers/followers by providing something unique and worthy of their time.  I recently found such a place located in the northern Sierra Mountain Range, about forty five minutes northwest of Reno, Nevada (in California)…the Chalet View Lodge. While conversing with other guests during my stay, I continued to hear them say, “this place is an unexpected treasure.”

The Lodge is located in between two very small towns, Graealge and Portola, California along highway 70.  The area is fairly remote, surrounded by a million-plus acres of Plumas National Forest…for those driving by the Lodge, it’s a sweet surprise.   You often don’t expect high quality accommodations in  rural areas, but that’s exactly what you get at the Chalet View Lodge. This 49 room boutique hotel/resort is a family-owned operation with varying accommodations to suit just about every need.



For starters, the Lodge as a whole is a series of structures…you have the main lodge building that plays host to the “standard” rooms (which are anything but)—along with the lobby, restaurant/bar, patio with fireplace, and a cozy common area decorated in high European fashion.  Then, there is the “Terrace Suites” structure, which is where I stayed.  The Terrace Suites are two stories, with a king-sized bed and full bath in the upstairs loft, and another full bath with sleeper sofa downstairs…along with a comfortable living/seating area facing French doors that open up to a Terrace providing wonderful views of the property and surrounding areas.

Then, there are the rustic one and two bedroom private cabins. These are a bit more on the posh side of rustic, especially when it comes to the “Villa,” a secluded cabin within a short walk of the main lodge.  The Villa is simply spectacular…not “rustic” in any sense of the word.  The Villa is high-end all the way…a full kitchen with granite countertops, two bedrooms, two baths with a large Jacuzzi tub for two, fireplace…and, a deck overlooking the golf course with a hot tub and fireplace—absolutely perfect for a honeymoon or romantic get-away.

I had so much fun during my stay…there is a plethora of things to do, both on-site and in the surrounding area.

Here are just a few of the on-site activities I enjoyed:

  • 9-hole pitch and putt golf course
  • Basketball
  • Volleyball (sand and grass)
  • Horseshoe area
  • Small pond for fishing with a bonfire seating area
  • Workout facility
  • Spa

Nearby Activities include:

  • Summer ATV and Winter Snowmobile tours
  • Hiking
  • Fly-fishing on the Feather River
  • Winter cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, downhill skiing less than 1-hour away
  • Museums
  • Horseback riding
  • Mountain Bike Riding
  • Boating

On my first evening at the lodge I was invited to dine with the owners, Bob and Carrie, and their marketing person, Debra.  We quickly learned that we all shared a passion for travel and discovery. After swapping stories for a while I wanted to learn more about how the “Lodge” became to be. I just knew there was an interesting story behind the decision to build and invest in a boutique hotel with little around to support it. I learned that Bob was a builder (and in some respects still is as the Lodge continues to grow) and his company actually constructed the Lodge, which made it a bit more affordable to consider such an endeavor.  I can’t recall the exact details, but the vision for the Lodge actually came from Bob and Carrie’s 13-year old son at the time.  The family was driving by, or perhaps exploring on ATVs; they came across the current site of the Lodge…when all of a sudden their son stopped, peered out at the property and said, “this would be the perfect spot to build a hotel/lodge.”   I’m not sure how much time went by, but Bob soon shared in his son’s vision to construct the Chalet View Lodge.  A few years later, and after a lot of blood, sweat and tears, their vision became a reality. The rest they say, is history.  The family is very hands-on, trying to meet every guest and making sure all are enjoying their stay.  I was absolutely amazed by the hard work and dedication…and, I swore it seemed as though Bob was often in two places at the same time!

Bob and Carrie have long-term vision for the area and have been working with local entrepreneurs to expand the offerings to attracted more visitors…with the Lodge as one of the anchors to that development.  “We offer a pretty unique experience at Chalet View Lodge for our guests…they can experience luxury in the wilderness, while not compromising on comfort or activities.”

On the second day of my visit I enthusiastically accepted an invitation to go on an ATV ride with an outfitter just a few miles away.  Explore! Sierra Touring Company offers exciting tours of a private 2000 acre ranch with varying terrain.  I thoroughly enjoyed a private tour with Ken, the owner of Sierra Touring, who painstakingly carved out an exciting trail system taking riders from low-lying plains to mountain tops with 360 degree views.  The terrain is interestingly diverse, from dense pine and fir trees, to aspen and scrub oak.  After a couple hours of riding I headed back to the Lodge to get cleaned up.  I had no idea how dirty I was until I looked in a mirror prior to jumping in the shower.  You know you had a good time when your face gets this dirty!

On my third day I decided to take it easy and head over to the spa for a salt scrub and deep tissue massage…a perfect complement to the prior days’ activities.  I had never experienced a “salt scrub” before…it was a unique and enjoyable treatment.  After I showered off, I hopped back on the table for one of the best massages I’ve ever had (Amanda…you rock!).  The spa is really quite nice, with all the comforts and services you’d expect if you were in a big city.

It was another spectacular fall day, sunny and in the high 60s.  Now that I was thoroughly relaxed, it was time to hit the links.  The Lodge has a 9-hold pitch-and-putt course…which as you may know are the two most important aspects of the game.  It took me a while to get used to the short lengths (I kept hitting over the green), but I soon had it dialed in and had a really enjoyable time.

That evening I was invited to dine with Bob and Carrie once again, along with a couple of their friends up from Reno for the weekend.  We had a sensational evening and I was a bit doleful to be moving on.

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of a more popular tourist destination, but not compromise on accommodations or activities, do yourself a favor and plan a trip to the northern Sierra Nevada Mountains and stay at the Chalet View lodge…I promise ya, you will not be disappointed.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of Chalet View Lodge.  If you’ve been to the lodge before, post a comment below and let my readers and me know what you thought.  If you found this post and video to be helpful and/or interesting…please click the “like” button below and share with your friends and family.

Chalet View Lodge Info:

72056 Highway 70
Graeagle, Ca 96103
Map: Click Here
Phone: 800-510-VIEW (8439)
Website: ChaletViewLodge.com

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Thunderous Approbation for Thundering Waters Inn

Monday, November 7th, 2011

Perched along the banks of the North Umpqua River, just outside Roseburg, Oregon, rests a rather unassuming bed and breakfast from the outside, but once in…elation is your escort. With only two guest rooms, the Thundering Waters Inn may be modest in stature…but that’s it.  From the location, accommodations, attention to detail, amenities to the gourmet meals and overall value, the Thundering Waters Inn is second to none.

The two guest suites are impeccably decorated with fabulous original artwork adorning the walls. Both rooms have spectacular river views, each with private entrances to a deck with the same views.  There are a number of places to sit and relax on the deck to enjoy an evening glass of wine, a morning cup of coffee, or perhaps to just read a good book.  The rooms are spacious with a small seating area for reading or watching TV.  Each room is distinctly decorated and one room (the Seafarer) has an extra single bed for an additional guest or child. The bedding and linens are quite luxurious, but what I really appreciated was the European-style tower showers with multiple spray heads for a spa-like experience.



There is a detached rec room on the second floor with a professional pool table, game table and extra large  flat screen T.V. for watching your favorite sporting event or the like. Just outside the rec room, off of the second floor deck, is a hot tub overlooking the river below for those romantic evenings, or just to relax the day’s activities away.

The river is a short stroll down the hill where you can do some world-class fly fishing, or just explore the banks and find a spot to relish the rapids and watch the wildlife.

Breakfast is served on the second floor where the entire wall of windows takes advantage of the awe-inspiring river and canyon views. The warmth from the fireplace provides a cozy feel, while the gourmet meal will keep you going throughout the morning.  Some of the dishes I enjoyed during my stay included:

  • Fresh fruit with Greek yogurt each morning
  • Freshly baked, truly French-inspired croissants
  • Omelet with thick lean bacon
  • French toast made with leftover croissants (yummy!)
  • Authentic Italian style coffee in any variation…espresso, cappuccino, latté, etc.

Since Thundering Waters is in the outskirts of Roseburg, Jim and Christina (the proprietors) offer appetizers and wine as part of the overall experience.  For myself, and many others I suspect, the appetizers are plentiful in case you choose not to drive into town for dinner. I might also add that the food is simply delectable.  During my stay some of the evening dishes varied, with many having a French influence.  Here are some of the creations I enjoyed during my stay:

  • Garlic and rosemary shrimp with a hint of hot peppers
  • Caprese salad
  • Smoked Salmon soufflettes
  • Coquilles St. Jacques (scallops and mushrooms)
  • Twice-baked potatoes
  • Pear walnut and blue cheese salad
  • Pork medallions with baked peaches
  • Grilled asparagus

As a palate cleanser, the other guests and I enjoyed the following:

  • Crème Brule
  • Strawberry Gelato
  • Vanilla bean ice cream with a decadent liqueur

If you’re a wine lover, you’ll really appreciate how the evening’s appetizers are brilliantly paired with local wines. As a matter of fact, there are twenty two boutique wineries in the Roseburg area with tasting rooms and tours available.  Jim and Christina were gracious enough to take me to one of their favorite wineries, HillCrest Vineyards, for a behind the scenes tour.

As most of you reading this know, I stay in many B&B’s, and nearly all have been great in varying ways.  When I judge a bed and breakfast I look at several factors…. Location, Accommodations, Breakfast (food), Amenities, Hospitality and Comfort. Most B&B’s/Inns do really well in three or four of the categories and perhaps a bit more on the mediocre side for the other two/three.  The Thundering Waters Inn excels in every category.   The quality and attention to detail are amazing.  The best part is…it’s an absolute bargain at less than $200 per night.

Jim and Christina are incredibly interesting, well-traveled people with many different interests and hobbies.  When they decided to open Thundering Waters Inn, they clearly did their homework on how to run a first-class B&B…you’ll find them both to be the most gracious and hospitable of hosts.

As I write this, on my last day here at the Inn, I’m sitting on the expansive deck high above the river…it’s late afternoon on a magnificent Indian summer day.  The air is warm, but with a gentle breeze that reminds you that the calendar says fall. The sun is beginning to drop low on the horizon, producing an amber glow that makes the color of the fall leaves shimmer, as if from a realist painting.   The hum of the river is soothing to the soul, while the rapids inform you that you’re among the brilliance of nature.   The kitchen window is open letting the sweet smell of gourmet food being prepared (for wine and happy hour) waffle through the air—the scent lingers in the cooling evening air, causing my taste buds to water with great anticipation. As I walk back to my room to prepare for the evening, the sound of fallen leaves crunch beneath my feet, which reminds me that the season is coming to an end, just like my wonderful stay here at the Thundering Waters Inn.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of Thundering Waters Inn.  If you’ve ever been to the Inn, post a comment below and tell my readers and me what you liked most?  If you enjoyed this post and video, please click the “like” button below.

Thundering Waters Inn Contact info:

Address: 12475 N. Bank Rd
Roseburg, Oregon 97470
Map: Click here
Phone: 541-672-1628
Email: Christina@ThunderingWatersInn.com
Website: ThunderingWatersInn.com

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Posted in Featured Lodging, Oregon | 2 Comments »

Contemporary, Classy: Crystal Lodge Hotel

Wednesday, August 31st, 2011

Located right in the heart of Whistler Village, the Crystal Lodge is within minutes’ walk  to just about everything you could imagine…restaurants, shops, entertainment, and of course, the slopes.  The hotel has a lot to offer its guests…from its modern design, spacious and luxurious rooms, array of amenities, to its very friendly staff.  For a hotel of this quality level, the rates are very fair—although the modest rates may be subsidized by the high parking fees…I think it was $22 or $24 per day.

Our room at the Crystal Lodge was very clean and inviting and came with a king sized bed, Jacuzzi tub and a balcony high above the action below.  We also had a small kitchenette, which allowed us to easily pop back into our room during the day to grab a refreshment…and, the convenience of the hotel location allowed us to stop in  to pick  up anything we may have forgotten.



Click on the following links to see more pictures and videos of the area, as well as restaurant suggestions, etc….Whistler Village and the Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride.

If you’ve stayed at the Crystal Lodge Hotel before, please leave a comment below and let my readers and me know what you thought.

Crystal Lodge Hotel Information:

800-667-3363
e-mail:  info@crystal-lodge.com
web: Crystal-Lodge.com
4154 Village Green
Whistler, BC V0N 1B4 – Canada

Check out this hotel supplied video for a more in-depth perspective:

Posted in Canada, Featured Lodging | 2 Comments »

Posh, Palatial…Presidential: The George Washington Inn

Sunday, August 21st, 2011

Located just east of Port Angeles, Washington, on a bluff high above the Strait of Juan de Fuca, sits a remarkably familiar sight, a  B&B offering spectacular views and accommodations alike.  This Bed and Breakfast is modeled after a legendary home built over 200 years ago on the opposite end of the country in Mount Vernon, Virginia, by the first President of the United States…the George Washington Inn.

The George Washington Inn has become an iconic area landmark and quickly catches your attention as you approach.  The long driveway draws the eye, creating an instant sense of familiarity.  Everything about the Inn is grand…from its stature, grounds, entry to the sweeping views.

This palatial estate has only five guest rooms (due in part to local zoning restrictions), so each suite, as well as the common areas, is quite spacious.  There are all kinds of places to relax and enjoy the property…one of my favorite spots was the deck facing north toward the water that stretches the entire width of the house—watching the sunsets there was spectacular.   The Inn is four stories, however only the 2nd and 3rd are used for guests.  The basement is where the owners, Dan and Janet, call home.  The top floor is still unfinished, but there are tentative plans to turn it into a conference room to attract corporate events and retreats.



I was lucky enough to share my visit to the George Washington with someone special, which allowed us to take full advantage of the experience…from a soak in the Aquatic Whirlpool air tub, to playing chess on the deck while enjoying a sunset over the water.

Three of the rooms at the George Washington Inn are considered “Deluxe Suites” and feature the following amenities:

  • Private front & veranda entrances
  • Parlor, coffeemaker, microwave, refrigerator
  • Mountain and ocean views, flat screen HDTV, Wi-Fi
  • King bed, electric fireplace, Aquatic Whirlpool air bath, shower

The other two suites don’t have private entrances or parlors, but nearly everything else listed above.


The day before our arrival to the Inn was spent hiking and camping and we were a bit tired, and we ended up retiring early so that we could start the day off with a much-anticipated home-cooked breakfast.  The fresh strawberry infused yogurt and spinach salmon quiche did not disappoint.  We also met a lovely couple and ended up spending nearly two hours conversing during the meal.  Meeting interesting people is just one of the many advantages of staying at a B&B over a hotel.

After a fun day spent touring the town of Sequim, we ended up having dinner at a wonderfully quaint restaurant called “Alder Wood Bistro,” which is an intimate place in an older home converted into a lovely dining experience.  As we made our way back to the George Washington Inn and entered the foyer, the smell of freshly baked cookies filled the air.  Both lovers of a “tasty morsel,” Rhonda and I made a dash for the platter of warm chocolate chip cookies, which we took back to our room to enjoy…actually devour!

Each B&B/Inn has its own structure to its breakfast service; at the George Washington it’s served at 8:30 with guests sharing tables on the cozy, enclosed patio.  I always find it fun and interesting meeting new people, especially those who have a common interest in travel and B&B lodging.  Rhonda and I met some fascinating folks during our stay.  Each morning we had breakfast with a different couple.   Below are some of the menu items we enjoyed…

  • Fresh strawberries in a custard yogurt with whipped cream with Spinach and salmon quiche for the entrée.
  • Baked Pear along baked egg and ham on toasted bread
  • Fresh local raspberries drizzled with chocolate, blueberry scone and poached eggs.

The Olympic Peninsula is a very popular place to grow lavender, during the summer months you’ll see the bright purple blooms everywhere…including the property at the George Washington Inn.  Dan and Janet produce a number of lavender infused products…from soaps, honey, tea to bath salts and lotions.  All the products are produced on-site and sold in the gift shop, which is located in the lower part of a separate structure on the property (the Carriage House)—the upper portion of the carriage house is available as a vacation rental.

Speaking of vacationing…The George Washington Inn, and the Port Angeles /Sequim area is a fantastic place to use as a hub for exploring the Olympic Peninsula.  Here are just a few suggestions, all of which I’ve done:

  • Take a ferry across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, Canada for a day trip.
  • Trek across the Dungeness Spit to a beautiful lighthouse.
  • On a clear day, drive to the top of Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Park for some spectacular views.
  • Tons of hiking in and around the Olympic National Park.
  • Drive to the most northwesterly point of the lower 48 to Cape Flattery.

Dan and Janet are extremely gracious hosts and will do everything they can to make your stay with them and the area, an experience you won’t soon forget.

If you’ve been to the George Washington Inn Bed and Breakfast before, please leave a comment for my readers and me.  Click the following link to view more of my pictures of the George Washington Inn.  If you’ve found this post and video enjoyable, please click the “Like” button below.

Contact Info:

George Washington Inn
939 Finn Hall Road
Port Angeles, WA 98362
360-452-5207
E-mail: Dan Abbott - Proprietor
Janet Abbott – Innkeeper
www.GeorgeWashingtonInn.com

If the George Washington Inn is books, here are some links for other area B&B’s: Washington, Bed and Breakfasts,

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Villa Columbia Bestows European Flair and Flavor

Thursday, August 11th, 2011

Along the southern banks of the Columbia River lies the ever popular destination of Hood River, Oregon.  Right in the heart of it all, and in the shadow of Mount Hood is the Villa Columbia Bed and Breakfast.  The Villa Columbia is a beautifully restored Craftsman Style home, which was originally built in 1911, but completely renovated in 2005. There are five distinctly furnished rooms; most have Jacuzzi tubs and rain showers, and each have a European flair, which would stand to reason since the owners hail from the former Yugoslavia.

Located in the historic downtown of Hood River, the Villa Columbia is within walking distance to many great shops, restaurants, wineries and art galleries.  If wind sports are your thing, the Inn is just a short distance to one of the most popular areas on the Columbia Gorge.  For winter sports, Mount Hood is only a 35-mile drive.



Villa Columbia is situated in a geographic area abundant with activities and is just 70 miles east of Portland.  While I was there I enjoyed hikes to waterfalls; drives through local farm land where I picked my own cherries and blueberries; walks along Main Street; and, a couple of trips to the beach along the Columbia River to witness the excitement of kite boarding and wind surfing.

Breakfast at the Villa Columbia is scrumptious and served in thee-courses.  Local ingredients are often used to create a unique experience that reminded me of being in Europe.  Each morning of my stay I enjoyed a fresh fruit berry parfait with vanilla yogurt.  Some of the other items/dished included:

  • Whole wheat blueberry scone
  • Ham & cheese breakfast calzone
  • Twice baked croissant with cherry compote and chicken sausage
  • Spinach quiche with sliced cantaloupe accompanied with sausage in puff pastry

Throughout the day refreshments are available, from stocked mini-fridges with soda and water, to cookies, fruit (like a fresh bowl of cherries while I was there) and a number of candy dishes…all the comforts of home.

Boba and Vlada, the owners and innkeepers, live on-site and are very gracious hosts…they’ll do everything they can to ensure you have a pleasant and memorable stay.  I saw Boba go out of her way to accommodate guests with special food needs—and, she’s a great resource for things to do in-and-around the Hood River area.

Hood River is a really cool place to visit with lots of great amenities and activities…staying at the Villa Columbia is a wonderfully convenient place to make your headquarters while exploring the area.

Note: The convenient location of the Villa Columbia might also be a slight hindrance to those who are sensitive to street noise.  A couple of the rooms face Oak Street, the main road through town, which can be a bit loud at times( although during the evening hours it’s not bad).  If you feel this might be an issue, you may want to request one of the three rooms that face the river side.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of the Villa Columbia Bed and Breakfast.  If you’ve stayed at the Villa Columbia, please leave a comment below and tell my readers and me what you thought.  If you found this post and video to be interesting and/or helpful, please hit the “Like” button and share it with your friends and family.

Contact Info:

Villa Columbia Bed and Breakfast
902 Oak Street
Hood River, OR 97031
Toll Free: 800-708-6217
Local: 541-386-6670
Info@VillaColumbia.com
www.VillaColumbia.com

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Posted in Featured Lodging, Oregon | 2 Comments »

While in McCall, hunt no further than The Hunt Lodge

Saturday, July 30th, 2011

I recently visited McCall, Idaho for the first time and certainly hope it will not be my last…what a great little town.  The area is so scenic—from Payette Lake, rafting rivers to nearby ski slopes…there is a lot to see and do, not to mention some great restaurants and shopping.

I was in McCall for a week-long rafting trip down the Salmon River with the folks from O.A.R.S. and decided to stay at The Hunt Lodge for pre and post trip accommodations.  Staying at the Lodge was quite convenient since it’s also the pre-trip meeting place for all O.A.R.S excursions down the Salmon.  The Lodge is located right in town and is in walking distance to many amenities.

The Hunt Lodge is actually a Holiday Inn Express property, which I was surprised by since it has such distinct character—if it weren’t for the sign out front, you’d probably never know.  As you approach the Lodge for the first time, you’ll notice the grand post beam construction and wood-carved sculptures. The lobby has an array of mounted taxidermy, which really gives it that “lodge-like” feeling.



There are four accommodation levels to choose from…a standard queen or king room, a double queen suite and the king suite, which is the room I stayed in.  The King suite is quite spacious with its own separate lounge area, equipped with wet bar, mini-fridge, microwave and T.V.  The King Suite also has a huge Jacuzzi tub, and, all rooms are accented in bold beautiful granite with many modern fixtures.

Lodge/Hotel amenities include:

  • A luxurious heated indoor pool and spa
  • Fitness Center
  • Business center
  • Conference Center
  • Washer/Dryer
  • And, complimentary buffet breakfast

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while in McCall, I think you’ll be quite satisfied with The Hunt Lodge.  The staff is very helpful and friendly, especially Jonathon, the General Manager.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of The Hunt Lodge in McCall, Idaho.  If you’ve stayed at The Hunt Lodge before, please leave a comment for my readers and me.  If you’ve found this post with video to be helpful, please hit the “Like” button below.

Contact Info:

The Hunt Lodge – Holiday Inn Express & Suites
210 North 3rd Street
McCall, ID 83638
Phone: 208-634-4700
Email: Info@TheHuntLodge.com
Web: http://www.TheHuntLodge.com

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The Fat Duck Inn is Walla Wonderful

Saturday, July 30th, 2011

The Fat Duck Inn located in Walla Walla, Washington is a charming and stately bed and breakfast.  As you approach the craftsman style B&B for the first time, you might be deceived by its seemingly diminutive stature, but once you enter the “Duck,” as it’s often affectionately referred to by its owner, you soon discover how copiously spacious it actually is.  There are five guest rooms, each with its own private bathroom, a large dining area, a cozy common area for guests to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine, a patio, and, as most homes of the era have… a lovely front porch.

The Fat Duck Inn is situated on a beautiful tree-lined street in a quiet neighborhood just a few minutes’ walk from downtown, which offers an abundance of quality restaurants and shopping.  One of the evenings during my visit I enjoyed some live outdoor music while devouring a delicious flatbread pizza and washing it down with a cold local beer.

While Walla Walla may have become famous for its sweet onions and as a college town, it’s fast becoming known for its quality soil to grow world class grapes. Ten years ago Walla Walla had some twenty wineries…today there are over two hundred.  The Fat Duck Inn has capitalized on this trend by offering gourmet, wine-paired dinners on the weekends for both guests as well as locals.  Unfortunately for me, my stay was during the week and I did not get the opportunity to enjoy this dining experience.  I did however have a chance to meet the chef, who is not only a fascinating individual, but who also grows a lot of his own ingredients.

One afternoon I headed to the outskirts of town to meet the chef (Greg Schnorr) on his modest farm (Schorgonoff Farms) where not only does he grow a variety of produce, but he also raises hogs, geese and poultry.  Chef Greg  is a well-versed and interesting person who seems eager to learn about all facets of the culinary chain.  He teaches his craft at Walla Walla Community College and continues his own education in farming, wine-making and the harvesting of quality ingredients.  I’m either going to have to return to Walla Walla soon, or just continue to imagine the pleasure of enjoying a meal prepared by Chef Greg.

My stay at the Fat Duck Inn was a very comfortable and enjoyable one…my room was quite spacious and included a large bathroom equipped with a Jacuzzi tub and separate shower.  And, because I’m often working on my computer, I especially appreciated the butler/secretary-style desk.  Each of the five guest rooms is distinctly decorated and each has its own “duck” name, i.e.  The Pintail (the suite I stayed in), the Widgeon, the Gadwall, etc.

Alexa, the owner of the “Duck,” is quite vivacious and hospitable, while at the same time giving guests space to enjoy their stay—she lives off-site, but just a block away, so guests can call with any needs they might have.  In addition to running the Fat Duck Inn, Alexa also manages a number of vacation rental properties in the area for guests needing more spacious or private accommodations.

During my stay, Alexa graciously invited me out for drinks and appetizers at one of her favorite places, JimGermanBar, in the neighboring town of Waitsburg.    It’s always nice to have a local show ya around—and, it’s fun getting to know the proprietor of the place you’re staying to find out how they got started, what sets them apart, etc.  My first question of Alexa was an obvious one… “where does your fascination with ‘ducks’ come from?”  As she chuckled, she said, “I really don’t have one…it was just an idea I had to create a memorable image for the Inn.”  Clearly Alexa has some experience in marketing!  While the Inn has an abundance of duck-themed décor, it’s all very tastefully done.

Breakfast at the Inn is served buffet style and consists of fresh fruit, granola, baked goods and a warm entrée such as a breakfast burrito.  The menu does not seem to vary from day-to-day.  An afternoon glass of wine is offered and is quite enjoyable on the front porch of the Inn.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of the Fat Duck Inn.  If you’ve stayed at this B&B before, please leave a comment for my readers and me.  If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and watching the video, please click the “Like” button below.

For more information:

Fat Duck Inn
527 Catherine Street
Walla Walla, Washington 99362
Local Phone: (509) 526-DUCK (3825)
Toll Free: 1.888.526.8718
E-mail: info@fatduckinn.com
Web: www.FatDuckInn.com

Note: After creating, then building-up and running the Fat Duck Inn into a profitable business, Alexa has decided to sell the Bed and Breakfast.  So, if you’re looking for a charming B&B in a wonderful area, you can contact Alexa below with any questions.

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Gateway Canyons Resort…The Entrance to Xanadu

Monday, July 11th, 2011

One of the things I strive to do on Mike’s Road Trip is to find those cliché “off-the-beaten-path” places…the ones that give you so much satisfaction in the discovery.  I get great joy in bringing exposure to well-deserving destinations that exceed my expectations and will assuredly interest my readers.  Discovering the Gateway Canyons Resort in Gateway, Colorado is the quintessence of Mike’s Road Trip.

As you drive toward Gateway through the meandering canyon, the excitement intensifies as the landscape develops into an awe-inspiring scene out of a movie.  When you arrive at Gateway Canyons Resort, you will feel as though you’ve been dropped from the heavens to a tranquil place that inspires the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

To be frank, the town of Gateway itself is a modest place; the Resort is the focal point and provides all the amenities you need for a remarkable and memorable time.   Whether you want to relax or have the adventure of a lifetime, Gateway Canyons can accommodate.  There is a full service spa offering everything from couples’ massage, salon services to facial treatments.  If you want adventure, they have an “Adventure Center” dedicated to your excitement needs…from horseback riding, rafting down the Dolores River that runs through the property, to off-roading (via ATV or Jeep), biking, fly fishing, sky adventures to hiking or climbing the landmark Palisade rock formation.

I spent three days at the Resort and was so disappointed to leave, I felt like I was just beginning to scratch the surface of all the nooks and crannies this magical place had to offer.   I arrived on a Saturday and found the place buzzing with excitement.  There was a large group of people from VOC (Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado) staying at the resort who were working on a trail-building project.  Apparently there was a band of musicians among the group who took the stage to perform for the volunteers.  As the music played, some people relaxed in the terraced amphitheater, while others played Frisbee on the expansive grassy knoll as the setting sun cast contrasting shadows upon the canyon walls and inimitable rock formations.  It was a wonderful start to my extraordinary stay.

The next day I drove about twelve miles north, up the canyon (the opposite way I had arrived) to “The Stables,” where I went for some horseback riding.  “The Stables” is a Gateway Canyons off-site 500 acre ranch where guests can enjoy an authentic western horseback riding experience. The riding trails climb over 1,500 feet in elevation and provide access to the area’s spectacular scenery.  The guides will take you on an exploration of the Uncompahgre Plateau, the surrounding picturesque desert and red rock canyons.  You’ll also enjoy seeing how the horses are cared for…they have it pretty darn good—residing in barn that looks more like a lodge.

It had been a while since I had been horseback riding, so while I hate to admit it…I was a little sore.  Thankfully my room came with its own private patio hot tub, where I took a nice long soak.  The resort has sort of two lodging accommodations available…the Kiva Lodge (this is where I stayed), which is a bit more upscale and what you’d expect from a high quality resort.  Then they have the Dolores River Inn, which is also quite nice, but is a bit more affordable.  Whether you stay in the Kiva Lodge, or the Dolores River Inn, each come with several accommodation levels depending on your individual needs—this flexibility makes the resort really accessible for all types of travelers.  Gateway Canyons Resort has been able to create and strike what I feel is the perfect balance.  The setting is second to none; there are plenty of activities with lots of open space.  The Resort would make an amazing setting for a wedding, romantic get-a-way or a family vacation.

After my soak and a shower, I headed to Entrada, one of three restaurants on the property.  Entrada is their fine-dining restaurant, serving hand-crafted dishes rich in flavors from the Colorado plateau.  I began my evening with a glass of wine in the lounge listening to the acoustic sounds of Jeffery Pine.  It was such a lovely evening I opted to dine on the patio with the soothing sounds of water running from a nearby feature, along with the mesmerizing views of the iconic Palisade rock formation as the sun began to bestow its cascading amber glow accentuating its features.

I enjoyed a pear and spinach salad to start, followed by Crisp Colorado Striped Bass with cilantro & sundried tomato pesto, along with sauté of baby spinach and black quinoa—it was absolutely delectable.  For dessert, I enjoyed a do-it-yourself s’more.  A plate was brought out with two homemade sugar cookies, a piece of fine Swiss chocolate and two large marshmallows.   A skewer was made available, and a large fire in the middle of the patio provided the flame—kids of all ages must love this dessert!

I also dined at the Paradox Grill a couple times for lunch and dinner…a bit more casual, but equally as good.  One evening I enjoyed sautéed Rainbow Trout with mustard seed, lemon blanc and calico rice…oh was it delicious.

The owner of the resort is John Hendricks, founder of the Discovery Channel—one of his passions is collecting classic cars.  Mr. Hendricks’ collection had grown to a point where he needed a place to house all his cars, so he built a state-of-the-art museum on the Gateway Canyons property for all to enjoy. This is yet another activity at the resort you won’t want to miss.  I was so impressed by the museum that I have dedicated a separate post and video to it.  Click the following link to see pictures and video of the Gateway Auto Museum.

It’s difficult not to use every cliché imaginable to describe the Gateway Canyons Resort; because they all apply…it really is a “hidden gem.”  The Resort is a few years old, with a number of the structures and amenities just recently opened.  I can’t imagine this place staying a secret for much longer, so do yourself a favor and visit it soon; I promise you will not be disappointed.

Click the following link to see more of my pictures of the Gateway Canyons Resort.  If you’ve been to Gateway Canyons Resort, let my readers and me know what you thought?  If you’ve enjoyed this post, please click the “like” button below and share with your friends and family.

For lodging outside of Gateway, check out the following links: Boulder CO B&B’s,

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