Q. Can you recommend some great spots for an Oregon honeymoon?
A. Tough economic times aren’t the only reason to honeymoon in Oregon—not by a long shot. With the state’s varied natural beauty, world-class resorts and sporty spots for adventure, there’s every reason to find your own brand of paradise close to home. From the coast to the mountains to the high desert, we’ve rounded up a few unique Oregon locales to start your new life together—whether you want to start it lounging in luxury, white-water kayaking or both.
On the southern Oregon coast in Gold Beach, where the Rogue River meets the Pacific Ocean on the “banana belt” stretch of coastline, temperatures are the warmest on the Oregon seashore—and active honeymooners have it good at the 16 rooms, two suites and two cabins at the Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge. Nab a room with a king-size bed and a private soaking tub that overlooks the river, dine on grilled oysters in the restaurant, and decide whether you want to hike, fish, golf, take a kayak up the river or just relax with an in-room massage.
Another fine coastal destination lies north of Portland in Astoria, at the mouth of the Columbia River. Here, the 38-room Cannery Pier Hotel perches over the majestic river and offers a seafaring experience without leaving land. Lovers will enjoy breathtaking views of the Astoria Bridge from their private balcony, and watch sea lions swim past as the fog rolls in. Take a promenade cruise on a retro tandem bike, then have the hotel’s chauffer drive you to dinner in a vintage ‘39 Buick. You’ll be charmed to exhaustion, ready to cuddle up and watch glowing ships sail past your window. Can you say romantic?
Finally, heading to the mountains of central or eastern Oregon can offer an unparalleled rustic honeymoon experience. Shack up with your new spouse at FivePine Lodge, a luxe 32-room pine retreat tucked into a forest at the base of the Cascade mountains. Enjoy soaking tubs, fireplaces and fine dining on-site, or explore oodles of outdoor pursuits in the Sisters area, from rock climbing to mountain biking. With such world-class travel options, there’s no reason your happily ever after can’t start right here in Oregon.