All my bags are packed. I’m ready to go. I’m standin’ here outside your door. I hate to wake you up to say goodbye. My house has sold! And I’m getting ready to move to the Pacific Northwest! Guess what that means. I’m getting ready to explore Willamette Valley! Last month, I wrote an article on the differences between CA and OR Pinot Noirs. Today, I will focus on Willamette Valley as a travel destination. Enjoy!
Willamette Valley – from Travel Sites
Willamette Valley has more than 700 wineries, which equates to two-thirds of the wineries and vineyards in OR.
TravelOregon.com describes the area beautifully: “Explore a region whose farm-to-fork food scene is paired with a legacy of wine — and plenty of ways to build up an appetite. Life’s simple pleasures can be found in a valley where farms, vineyards and forests reign supreme. Hit trails through old-growth trees to surging waterfalls and epic vistas, or pedal down a scenic backcountry road through covered bridges. These communities are tight-knit and talented, so take your time admiring their creativity and you might meet the makers too. Whether you’re looking for city culture or idyllic countryside, the Willamette Valley is a happy escape.”
WillametteWines.com says that “while wineries are the centerpiece of a wine tourist’s itinerary, there are also other things to see and do like visiting an art gallery, biking, hiking or floating above wine country in a hot air balloon.”
Hiking
Hiking is a top priority for me. So I was delighted to find this on WillametteValley.org: “From old-growth oak savannas to thundering waterfalls to forested Cascade foothills, the Willamette Valley is home to some of the best hikes in Oregon. (Lace up those hiking boots!) Our national wildlife refuges and bucolic state parks boast well-maintained footpaths for the whole family, while heartier adventure awaits on Marys Peak — the highest point in the Oregon Coast Range — and in the West Cascades, where massive waterfalls inspire awe and towering forests instill wonder. Where will you hike next?” Woo hoo!!!
Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park looks amazing.
Other Things to Do
Willamette Valley is right near Salem, the capital of OR, and Eugene, the home of University of Oregon.
There are also all kinds of fun small towns nearby. Please check out Travel Oregon again for information on these towns, including Dayton, Mt. Angel and Brownsville.
I hope I have the opportunity to wine taste with you in Willamette.
Cheers!
