Bella Collina Bed & Breakfast

Romantic Getaway for Two in Willamette Wine Country

Life is hectic, let's be honest. But escaping for a weekend may be the perfect thing to help you relax and get back to what really matters. Even if you can only getaway for a couple of days, a romantic weekend trip to Willamette’s famed wine country could be exactly what you need.

Stay at a Wine Country B&B:

Experience wine country from a romantic B&B in the heart of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA allowing you to hop between your favorite wineries, wake up to stunning vineyard views, and sink into luxurious bliss on your getaway. Enjoy a gourmet home cooked breakfast each morning and venture out for dinners and a taste of the valley. With Bella Collina B&B as your home base for the weekend, everything else seems to fall into place perfectly.

Stay Cozy in the Cellars

Cellar season is one of the best times to explore the hundreds of vineyards in Willamette Valley. Winemakers take guests into behind-the-scenes tours deep into the wine cellars to see how they perfect their wines. Taste wines and explore the rustic cellars or simply relax in the tasting rooms for an afternoon of bliss.

Take A Cooking Class

While going out for an intimate dinner is a great ending to a romantic day, try something out of the ordinary with a cooking class from the Willamette Valley Kitchen Company in Salem. Learn how to dice, chop, and julienne your way to a delicious dish that you and your loved one can savor together. This is the date night that just keeps giving as you can use the skills you learn to treat your favorite person to a meal whenever you please.

Hike Around

Get out into nature and go for a hike. A favorite around town is Erratic Rock State Park which is filled with unique rock structures and a walkable trail that leads through the forest. This is a great spot for bird watching and you’ll find sweeping views of the Coastal Range.

Catch a Show:

The Gallery Theater is one of the best nightlife activities in the Willamette Valley. This intimate theater showcases the talent of the region with a variety of musicals, dramas, comedies, and romantic plays. Located in downtown McMinnville, pair a show with a fantastic dinner from one of the incredible downtown restaurants and a walk through town after dusk for a romantic evening for the books.

Have a Spa Day

Spend the day relaxing with your favorite person in the world. Treat yourselves to a simple foot massage to a full body massage at Breathe Body & Spa in McMinnville. Start your weekend off by leaving all your worries behind and indulge in a couples massage. Relaxation has never been so easy.

Sometimes you can only get away for a 48 hour trip with your partner. Luckily, a wine weekend to the Willamette Valley is the perfect trip to help you unwind and reconnect with the person who means the most to you.

Ready for a romantic getaway to Willamette Wine Country? Book a Stay at the Bella Collina B&B, a luxurious inn located in the heart of Eola-Amity Hills AVA.

Ultimate Oregon Coast Bucket List

The Oregon Coast is truly a sight to behold. The evergreen forests carry all the way from the mountains down to the crashing sea. There are geological wonders, award-winning restaurants, and incredible attractions all along the coast, and it would be a shame to miss out on any of the incredible stops along the way. That is why we’ve put together our Ultimate Oregon Coast Bucket List with everything you should do, see, and eat on your trip.

𝤿 Oregon Dunes: A perfectly sandy beach isn’t common along the rocky Pacific Coastline except at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Explore the expansive dunes on foot or pick up some speed with a specially made dune buggy to blast through the sand.

𝤿 Cape Foulweather: Don’t let the name deter you, Cape Foulweather is one of the most picturesque spots on the coast. Perched 500 feet above the sea, you can look out and watch where the forest meets the sea.

𝤿 Blue Raeven Farmstand: While not technically on the coast, a stop at Blue Raeven Farmstand is an absolute must when travelling through the area. Grab a slice to enjoy and a couple pies for the road. You’ll love their unique flavors like apple-blackberry, rhubarb-peach, and Oregon berry which is a blend of all berries found right here in Oregon.

𝤿 Neskowin Ghost Forest: On a low-tide day there is no better destination than the coastal town of Neskowin. As the tide recedes, you can walk to Proposal Rock and explore the island off the coast. Travel south along the beach and you will reach the ghost forest, perfectly preserved petrified trees of a forest that grew thousands of years ago.

𝤿 Tillamook Cheese Factory: Tillamook is a household name with cheese, yogurt, and ice cream in supermarkets across the country thanks to this coastal cheese factory. Stop on in for a tour and endless cheese samples!

𝤿 Thor’s Well: It would be easy to breeze by Thor’s Well and miss this geological wonder. Just south of Yachats, a short hike from the Cape Perpetua Visitors Center will reward you with a hole that drains and spouts the ocean water like a geyser.

𝤿 The Schooner: Netarts Bay is the place to go for oyster lovers. Dine on oysters baked, grilled, or served raw. You won’t find fresher oysters than inside this establishment as most are pulled from the bay just hours before you arrive.

𝤿 The Wreck of Peter Iredale: Explore the ship remains of a 1906 shipwreck. Explore this unique attraction during low tide or gaze upon it from the shore during high tide. The structure is corroding more and more every day so get out there and see this treasure for yourself.

𝤿 Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach: As one of the most popular destinations on the coast, a picture at Haystack Rock is essential for an Oregon Coast roadtrip. Hike around during the daytime and check out the unique ecological habitats and make a bonfire on the beach at night to watch the sunset.

𝤿 Astoria’s Goonie Trails: The northern town of Astoria is a settlement built into a forest - and it shows. Explore the lush overgrown Goonie Trails that wind through the town. One moment you are next to a Vcitorian home, the next in a thick forest with no buildings in sight, and the next you are in the historic downtown.

𝤿 Cabin 18: On Highway 29 just outside of Elsie lies a roadside restaurant that is often marks the start and end of a coastal road trip from Portland. Dine in a cozy log cabin serving up mouthwatering American food and massive cinnamon rolls. You can also explore the on-site museum that documents the logging history of the area in a fun and hands-on experience.

𝤿 Devils Punchbowl: One of the most fascinating geological formations on the coast is the Devils Punchbowl in Otter Rock. Over time the oceans waves have eroded the rock to create an arch over a sea cave. Parking is extremely limited, so try to hit this spot for a sunrise hike or around dinner time where there is less of a crowd.

𝤿 Oregon Coast Aquarium: While spotting a whale in the waves or a sea bird in the air is quite common on the coast, if you want to get up close and personal with some coastal wildlife then head to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. The underwater tunnel lets you see what life in the ocean is really like and their interactive shows allow you to see these wild animals in a safe and controlled environment.

𝤿 Gracie’s Sea Hag: On a chilly day when the sun has yet to break through the coastal mist, head into Gracie’s Sea Hag for a soul warming cup of chowder. Her secret recipe has been served up to locals, visitors, restaurant critics, and foodies for over 50 years and still holds its own.

𝤿 Cape Kiwanda: In Pacific City, you can hike to Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area for unparallelled cliffs that plunge into the crashing ocean. With some of the most violent waves on the coast, this is a prime location for storm watching and kite flying.

𝤿 Pelican Brewing: After a long day of exploring sea caves, gliding through the sand dunes, and hiking to scenic vistas, treat yourself to a cold crisp beer at Pelican Brewing Company. Their pub is filled rain or shine with people looking for a juicy burger and a refreshing brew. Head into one of their three locations in Cannon Beach, Pacific City, or Tillamook for a break, or sign up for a brewery tour to get a behind the scenes look at their brewing process.

𝤿 Yaquina Head Lighthouse: Visit this 1873 lighthouse just outside of Newport to experience a little slice of history. You can climb to the top of the beacon for stunning views of the ocean and the mountains to the East.

𝤿 Flying Dutchman Winery: If you are making the trek to the Devils Punch Bowl, stop at the Flying Dutchman Winery right nextdoor. This cliffside winery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for their smooth and velvety wines.

𝤿 Bella Collina B&B: Just inland from the coast lies Bella Collina, a relaxed B&B in the heart of Oregon’s famed wine country. When the coast is this close to some of the best wineries, vinyards, and cellars in the country, you have to plan a little detour. While visiting some of the incredible wineries in the region, stay at the romantic and sophisticated Bella Collina B&B for an authentic wine country experience.

Hit every one of these Oregon Coast attractions and you will have one incredible vacation. When climbing lighthouses, sipping wine, and dining on the best fish n chips you’ll ever taste, you’ll have the best time in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

Planning your dream vacation to the Oregon Coast? Book a Stay at the Bella Collina B&B, a luxurious inn located in the heart of Oregon wine country.

Why Willamette Wine Country is the Perfect Winter Vacation

Winter is a beautiful time of the year, but it can also wear on you. Short days & long nights, wet, chilly weather, and lack of outdoor access means that you need to get out of your routine and take a little vacation. The Willamette Valley is one of the best places to escape for a little mid-winter R&R. Bountiful wineries, quaint Oregon towns, and a lack of crowds make for a wonderful personal weekend that you won’t soon forget.

Cellar Season

If you thought that Oregon wineries closed after harvest, then you are in for a lovely surprise. Wintertime in the Willamette Valley is known as Cellar Season, a time to visit the cozy tasting rooms of your favorite wineries and get a personal, behind-the-scenes experience. Instead of a busy peak season experience where you can barely stand in the tasting room, you can connect with the winemakers themselves and learn about their process.

Willamette Valley Winter Events

The Willamette Valley hosts some of its most unique and exciting events during the winter. There are foodie favorites like the Oregon Truffle Festival with weekend events all through January & February, and the Oregon Chardonnay Celebration in Newburg, to the Oregon Wedding Showcase, and even the McMinnville Short Film Festival coming up this season. There is an event for everyone and you may want to visit for more than one!

Antiquing in Salem

Antiquing is a favorite winter activity and Salem has a wide variety of antique stores where treasures are just waiting to be discovered. A couple of favorites are Engelberg Antiks, Earle Antiques, and The French Unicorn. During the holiday season, these stores offer the perfect market to find unique gifts for your loved ones or pick up the perfect holiday-themed items to make your Christmas party pop. After the new year, you can still browse these shops as new items are always popping up.

Visit Waterfalls without the Crowds

Oregon is known for the amazing waterfalls all over the Willamette Valley and during the summer a trip to see these natural beauties may be a little crowded. In the wintertime, however, the stunning waterfalls are still open and just as magnificent as ever, but you won’t have to deal with the parking fiasco or the crowds on the hikes. When snow does dust the valley, these waterfalls turn into a picturesque sight with icicles draping over the edge and illuminating blue hues in the water.

Cozy Up for a Film at Salem Cinema

There is nothing like cozying up and watching a movie during a chilly winter night and Salem Cinema offers an experience like no other. This intimate theater screens carefully selected films that often take an artistic approach to the storytelling experience. You’ll find foreign films, indie award-winning shorts, and suspenseful cinematic journeys every night of the week. Grab a bucket of popcorn and sink into the comfortable seats for a truly unique cinematic experience.

Stay at Bella Collina

Escape for a romantic weekend away at Bella Collina B&B. Snuggle up in front of the roaring fireplace and read a book or venture out for the day and visit some local wineries for tastings. You can relax and not have to lift a finger during your stay at this luxurious bed & breakfast.

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A Local's Lunch Guide to Salem, Oregon

Salem, Oregon has a wide variety of restaurants from bustling breakfast spots, to fine dining eateries, and dozens of food carts dotted across the city. With all of these options readily available, you need to know where to go to get the best lunch. We’ve eaten at every single spot in and around Salem and think that these are among the best of the best.

Wild Pear

The Wild Pear is one of Salem’s favorite restaurants and a trip to Salem is often met with more than one visit to this innovative spot. This local hub is perfect for groups ranging from picky eaters to foodies looking for farm-to-table entrees. Menu items vary from the Wild Pear Beef Burger with beef from Rudio Creek Ranch to a refreshing yet filling Chicken Hazelnut Salad with organic greens and Oregon-grown hazelnuts. You’ll also find a large variety of sandwiches from a simple BLT to a Vietnamese Banh Mi, pizzas, pho, and even white truffle sweet potato fries.

Venti’s Cafe

With locations all over town, this Salem-based chain is easy to find no matter where you’re at for the day. Take a step inside and you’ll find modern, globally inspired food that is both vegetarian-friendly and contains gluten-free options. The cafe is known for its hearty, nutritious, and delicious bowls. With most bowls costing around $12, you can get a quick, easy, cheap, and healthy meal in one place! You can also grab a juicy burger or a bowl of their creamy pasta dishes which is the perfect warm-me-up for a chilly Northwest day.

The Kitchen on Court Street

The Kitchen on Court Street is known as Salem’s hottest 24-hour establishment fully equipped with a bar, exposed brick wall, eclectic setting, and (of course) an incredible menu. Their tacos are frequently raved about by locals and visitors alike, but you will have quite a hard time deciding between those and the infamous Ruben. Located in the heart of downtown, this makes for a great business lunch, late friends brunch, or just a tasty stop. They also create lovely craft cocktails that are perfectly blended and refreshing for a midday pick me up.

Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro

You might mistake this Salem gem for a residential house, but step inside and you’ll be met with some of the most delicious, hearty, and mouth-watering home-cooked food you’ll ever taste. The Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro only serves breakfast and lunch, and there is almost always a wait, but that shouldn’t deter you from checking out this restaurant. There is a reason people line up rain-or-shine to dine on the incredible fare. If you’re in the mood for something sweet try the creme brulee french toast and if you want something savory, and brought your appetite, then grab the filet mignon french dip.

Cachet Tamale Shop

If you are in a hurry and want something quick that is also delicious, will fill you up, and keep you happy all afternoon, then head to the Cachet Tamale Shop. This little drive-through food stand serves up homemade tamales so good, you would think you were in Guatemala. You can pick up a dozen with whichever protein you would like, or grab a plate that comes with 2 tamales, black beans, rice, and is smothered in sour cream, salsa, and cheese. Located at 1105 Wallace Rd, you can find this little roadside stand in West Salem. While at first, you may be wary of the location, wait until you try the mouth-watering tamales, there's a reason this place has a cult following of locals and visitors alike.

When touring around Salem, visiting the museums, and meandering along the riverfront parks, make sure to stop at one of these great lunchtime eateries for a wonderful mid-day treat. From a quick bite to a sit-down bistro with home-cooked meals that will make your mouth water, Salem has a spot for everybody.

Ready to eat your way around Salem, OR? Book a Stay at the Bella Collina B&B, a luxurious inn located in the heart of Oregon wine country just 30 minutes from Salem.

What You Didn't Know About Oregon's Willamette Valley

What do you know about Oregon’s Willamette Valley? For starters, some of the best Pinot Noir wines come out of this region, the valley is filled with natural beauty, and the unique city of Portland is nestled at the top. But there is much more going on for this beautiful area than most people would guess. Here are 6 fabulous facts about the Willamette Valley that you probably didn’t already know.

The Willamette Valley is a Foodie Destination

Most people think the Willamette Valley is known for its incredibly smooth and complex Pinot Noirs, but others know the valley as an incredible foodie destination. In some ways, I think the two bring out the best in each other. With a large number of farms in the region, there is no lack of fresh produce and the chefs of the area have run wild creating some of the most intricately complex dishes you could taste.

The Largest Meteorite in America was found in the Willamette Valley

A 32,000-pound meteorite was found in West Linn, a small town just south of Portland in 1902. Quickly the mystery of this incredibly large meteorite spread and was found to be the largest in all of North America. The stunning Willamette Meteorite is on display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City where an estimated 40 million people have seen it.

Willamette Valley has over 20,000 acres dedicated to winemaking

Due to a unique set of geological events, the Willamette Valley is lined with some of the most fertile & nutrient-rich soil around. The volcanic soil deposited by volcano eruptions millions of years ago lend to the reddish color you can see the thriving grapevines growing from. After learning about the perfect conditions for Pinot Noir grapes in the region, people have started over 500 wineries in the valley.

Willamette Valley has some of the best Waterfalls

It is no surprise that the Willamette Valley is rich in rainfall, waters, and streams, but paired with the cascades to the east, you end up with some pretty spectacular waterfalls. Near Oregon City, the Willamette Falls are truly a sight to behold. This natural waterfall is the largest waterfall in the Northwestern United States by volume. Down south near Sublimity, there are about a dozen stunning falls all clumped together in the wilderness.

The Spruce Goose is in the Willamette Valley

Most have heard of Howard Hughes and his incredible flying machines, and some may even know the Spruce Goose by name. The Spruce Goose is the largest wooden airplane ever constructed. This enormous marvel was kept out of the public eye for over 30 years before it made its pilgrimage to the quaint town of McMinnville. You can view it yourself at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum.

It’s pronounced Willamette, Dammit!

There is quite a commotion over how to pronounce the famed Willamette Valley. But any wine lover or local resident will be fast to correct you to the proper annunciation. It’s pronounced Will-AM-it with a hard ‘A’ in the middle. If you ever forget how to pronounce it, just follow the simple pronunciation phrase “Its Will-AM-it, Dammit!”

Extra Fact: The Willamette Valley is amazing, but you didn’t need us to tell you that. Come check out this incredible part of the world. Gaze upon giant waterfalls, sip perfectly curated Pinot Noir, eat some of the best food out there, and pronounce Willamette right the whole time (you’re welcome).

Planning a trip to the Willamette Valley? Book a Stay at the Bella Collina B&B, a luxurious inn located in the heart of Oregon wine country.

The Perfect Weekend in Willamette Wine Country

It’s the weekend. Finally. And you are ready for a weekend of wine tasting relaxation. You’ve been dreaming of sipping a glass of perfectly blended Pinot Noir and gazing upon the Oregon vistas all day when you realize, you don’t know where to go! What wineries should you visit? Where is the best place to grab lunch? What American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) are in the area? Luckily, you don’t need to be a Willamette Valley expert to explore the region because we are, and are willing to give you all of our secrets to sipping your way through wine country.

Friday:

First things first, you need a home base for your adventures. Somewhere centrally located so you aren’t driving more than you need to. A place with beautiful views and relaxing rooms that make you feel like home the second you arrive. Bella Collina Bed and Breakfast outside of Amity, OR is the perfect lodging for any wine excursion. With views of vineyards in all directions, large rooms with panoramic windows, and large property with waterfalls, gazebos, and a fireplace to help you relax after a long day of winery tours. The best part? Fresh, farm-to-table breakfasts each morning. Arrive at your room and relax with a glass of wine as you watch the sunset.

Saturday:

Wake up to the wafting smell of home-cooked breakfast wafting through the air. Come down to piping hot coffee and freshly baked pastries. A stunning 2-course breakfast is served at 9 o’clock and you will find your first taste of this wonderful region. Enjoy savory or sweet entrees varying from yogurt parfaits and fluffy crepes to egg fromage and seasonal vegetable scrambles. After a filling, delicious breakfast, you’re now ready to explore wine country!

Eola / Amity Hills AVA:

Starting at the Bella Collina B&B, you are already in the heart of Wine Country. This AVA stretching from Salem up to our B&B and over to Amity contains over 100 vineyards and 30+ wineries and tasting rooms. We recommend heading over to Keeler Estate to see their organic and biodynamic farming process. Or you can head to Bjornson Vineyard to see their beautiful farmhouse winery with a stunning view of Mt. Hood.

Lunch at Community Plate:
All weekend you will be enjoying local wines, locally sourced breakfast, and experiencing the best of the Willamette Valley. This shouldn’t stop at lunch. Head to Community Plate in McMinnville for a locavore lunch that will blow you away. Try their Mushroom and Smoked Gouda Sandwich for a perfect midday pick me up.

McMinnville Foothills AVA:
On the western side of McMinnville lie beautiful foothills that are angled so perfectly to capture the sun and produce delicious wine grapes. We love love love Coeur de Terre for an afternoon visit. Drive into one of the valleys to find this winery perfectly tucked into a hillside. Taste their renowned Pinot Noir and take in the views.

Yamhill Carlton AVA:
Head north of McMinnville to the Gran Moraine Winery. The name sounds luxurious and the wines match. You can taste their tireless attention to detail in their true vintage wines. If you’re starting to warm up, then choose one a Rose of Pinot Noir. Fruity and floral, perfectly chilled, and masterfully blended make for a refreshing mid-afternoon sip.

Dinner at Barberry:
Mcminnville food is so delicious, it is worth making to stop on the way back too. Head to the Barberry to dine on seasonally handcrafted dishes and taste wines off their award-winning wine list. Pro Tip: get a glass from a vineyard you didn’t get the chance to see!

Back to Home Base:
Arrive back at Bella Collina, hopefully with a bottle from your favorite winery that you visited today. Crack it open and mingle with the other guests to find out which wineries they visited, their favorite blends, and learn more about the valley and why Oregon wines are so lush.

Sunday:

Once again, the wonderful smell of coffee and homemade breakfast will pull you out of bed. Find an entirely different breakfast spread in front of you, yet just as satisfying as the day before. Put on some sunscreen, finish your coffee, and head out for your second day.

Dundee Hills AVA:
Dundee Hills is where the first grapes in the Willamette Valley were planted. You can thank the fertile soil, ideal climate, and passionate winemakers here for the gift of Willamette Valley wines that we have today. As the most densely planted locale in the state, there are over 100 excellent wineries to choose from. Personally, we always love a good bottle from Sokol Blosser. This winery has been producing since 1971 and is a certified B-corporation, meaning every glass you drink is both good for you and the world.

Lunch at Ruddick/Wood:
This stop in Newberg is an absolute must. The restaurant is located in a converted 1920’s garage and the decor is classy, casual, comforting, and chic all at the same time. The food can be described as the same. Rotating menu items that are masterfully crafted and blend together seamlessly.

Ribbon Ridge AVA:
Head north from Newberg and visit the Ribbon Ridge AVA. Even though Ribbon Ridge is the smallest of the AVAs, the exquisite wines that come out of this region are absolutely to die for. Ayres, for example, is a smaller winery focused on making sure each grape produced is up to the highest of standards. They are committed to the heath of their vines, the environment, their guests and the world so they use highly sustainable practices in every aspect of their business.

After the lovely weekend filled with wine-tastings, scenic drives, delicious locally fresh entrees, and memorable friendships, it is sadly time to go home. Hopefully, you purchased a bottle or two to bring home with you and remember your wonderful weekend in the Willamette Valley.

Planning a wine tasting weekend? Book a Stay at the Bella Collina B&B, a luxurious inn located in the heart of Oregon wine country.

Where to See the Best Fall Foliage in the Willamette Valley

Oregon is made up of two sections: the evergreen valleys filled with pines and ferns and the deciduous hillsides covered in oaks, maples, and shrubs galore. While both hold their own beauty, during the autumn months, the oaks and maples turn from a light green to oranges and yellows.

Miller Woods Conservation Area

If you are looking for solitude to enjoy nature in peace, then Miller Woods Conservation Area is one of Willamette Valley’s best-kept secrets. The donated parcel of land is a well-maintained forest where users can explore nature in an intimate setting. The lush woods turn from bright green to a stunning golden hue each autumn. Later in the season, you’ll enjoy the crunch of leaves covering the forest floor as you wander through this hidden gem.

Silver Falls

Silver Falls State Park is an absolute must-see when visiting the Willamette Valley and during the fall season, this gem turns into a golden paradise. The blue-green falls pop against the yellow foliage creating a truly unique experience. Pack a picnic and enjoy at the main falls or hike up to the other falls to immerse yourself in the autumn glow.

Wineries

The Willamette Valley is famous for their light-bodied and fruit-forward Pinot Noirs, and fall is the perfect time to venture to these vineyards and sip on a glass of wine with a view. Take a curvy backroad through walnut and oak trees and arrive at a picture-perfect winery tucked into the hills. You can also have a more intimate interaction with the winery and the winemakers during this less tourist-filled time of year.

Bella Collina

Who says you have to go somewhere far off to see the beautiful fall foliage? Spend a night at Bella Collina B&B and watch the sunset bring out the golden hues of the valley from the hilltop. Wander around this 30-acre property to get close to the beautiful golden leaves or relax by the pond to soak in all of the beauty.

Keep an eye out for oaks and maples this time of year as the weather cools and the autumn spirit comes alive. Oregon is loved for the wide array of yellows, reds, and oranges that take over the landscape during these lovely fall months. Head to any of these spots to catch a glimpse of what makes Oregon’s Willamette Valley so special.

Want to explore the gorgeous Willamette Valley this fall? Book a Stay at the Bella Collina B&B, a luxurious inn located in the heart of Oregon wine country.