Oregon

River-carved canyons and vibrant urban neighbourhoods echo with Oregon’s free spirit

From its rugged coastline to lush temperate rainforest, Oregon has always been known as a breath of fresh air for travellers seeking splendid isolation in nature. But look beyond the wild romance of windswept beaches and pine-scented woodland trails, and you’ll find a state that’s just as rich in resilient human history and culture, with an incredible culinary scene and an unpretentious approach to understated luxury.

Things to do

NATURE
Combine wine tasting and spa retreats with stunning waterfall hikes along the banks of the Columbia river gorge, a spectacular canyon, flecked with rainbow spray and echoing with the roar of cascades. Or escape to Crater Lake National Park, where the USA’s deepest lake lies nestled in a collapsed volcano. Wildlife watchers are spoilt for choice. Gray whales migrate along the coast twice a year (Depoe Bay is the place to spot them.) Head to Klamath Basin for a chance to see soaring bald eagles, sandhill cranes and, thanks to the conservation work of the Klamath tribes, beloved state animal, the beaver.

HISTORY
Home of the famous Oregon Trail migration route, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to learn about this pioneering period. Delve into the gold rush and “timber towns” era – Jacksonville and Baker City offer well-preserved 19th-century architecture and many historical museums. Or don your favourite fisherman’s sweater and head to charming coastal Astoria, one of the oldest settlements west of the Rockies, where tales of a rich maritime and fishing history are waiting to be told over a craft beer in a seafront tavern.

PORTLAND
Portland is the cultural heart of Oregon, famed for its laid back atmosphere, environmental ethos and trendsetting credentials. Eat your way through the city, as 500 independent vendors tempt you with uniquely delicious food cart offerings. Explore the bean scene, with a crawl around the exceptional downtown coffee shops. For bookworms, Powell’s City of Books is a must see – a maze-like shrine to the written word, the country’s largest independent bookstore.