Natural Scenic Areas

Bella Collina is blessed to be not only in the heart of Oregon wine country but just a short drive from some of the most spectacular natural areas in America. These places are our backyard, so ask us about them and we can give you all the details, including some seldom-discovered little spots you will never forget.

Cape Kiwanda (one hour drive)

Cape Kiwanda is a sandstone promontory jutting boldly into the Pacific. It is one of the premier locations on the West Coast to view waves, mainly thanks to a solid sandstone wall that the waves break upon. Haystack Rock, just offshore, rises boldly to silhouette against the spectacular sunsets. A huge dune looms at the back of the cape and is a favorite climbing spot for visitors and the running-down spot for kids.

Lincoln City and Newport (one hour and 1 1/2 hour, respectively) 

Two fantastic beach towns, with plenty of natural areas just outside of town, from the Nature Conservancy's spectacular Cascade Head to the Drift Creek Wilderness to the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.

Oh, and did we fail to mention beaches? The towns themselves offer great art galleries, quality dining, shopping, and friendly people. This area is our day-trip getaway and definitely worth your time.

Silver Falls State Park (one hour drive)

One of Oregon's favorite gems, Silver Falls is actually a collection of ten waterfalls along the 8.4 mile Canyon Trail. It is beautiful any time of year, but at its peak in October when the fall colors frame the delicate waterfalls. The park has short hikes, long hikes, and a 4-mile bike path.

Columbia River Gorge (1 1/2 hour drive)

Often called the crown jewel of Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge ("the Gorge" to us natives), is a marvel of deep canyons, including the quarter-mile-long slot canyon called Oneonta Gorge, and exceptional high waterfalls. The Gorge has more and higher falls than any place in the US except for Yosemite Valley. Hikes range from a few hundred feet to many miles, so take your pick. If you have any questions, just ask us. We know the Gorge and can steer you to just the right place for your level of exertion and exploration.