Holiday homes & rentals in Oregon

Oregon, known for both funky, laid-back Portland and natural destinations like Mt. Hood and the Painted Hills, is ideal for nature lovers and cultural aficionados alike. And to boot, Oregon holiday accommodation often features details like log cabin façades, wood-burning fireplaces, pretty yards and gardens, and breathtaking views.

How to get to your Oregon accommodation

The Portland International Airport (PDX) is the only international port of entry, with daily flights from Amsterdam, Canada and Tokyo. The MAX light rail red line is an economical way to get from the airport to downtown Portland. You could also take a taxi to your holiday accommodation in Oregon, depending on how far away it is. Oregon's other important airports include the Mahlon Sweet Field (EUG) in Eugene, and Medford's Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR).

What to eat on your holiday in Oregon

Oregon's cuisine shows distinctive influences from Asian and Native American traditions, and can be lumped under Pacific Northwest cuisine in general. Pick up some takeaway to enjoy in your Oregon holiday accommodation from food carts serving ethnic fusions such as sushi rolls, bulgogi burritos and Japanese-style hot dogs. Chefs love fresh produce, and recipes often feature wild mushrooms, berries, tiny fruits, potatoes, moose, elk, and seafood. Oregon's Pinot Noirs and liquors distilled from regional produce are a must try!

Oregon's four stunning seasons

Thanks to its geography, Oregon enjoys a mild climate. Though nights can be chilly and damp, days are often sunny and warm. Winter and spring deliver the lowest temperatures and plenty of precipitation, but temperatures rarely drop far below freezing. The semi-arid eastern part of the state receives relatively no snowfall, while the Cascade mountains offer ski resorts!

Oregon summers are long, sunny, and dry. During these months, cool air from the Pacific ocean keeps temperatures moderate throughout most parts of the state. Fall foliage is lovely in the Pacific Northwest, and Oregon is no exception. Autumn is a great time to visit thanks to these picturesque changes to the landscape.

Things to do and see in Oregon

Oregon leaves visitors with many choices when it comes to natural trails, state parks and monuments. Plan a visit to the imposing Crater Lake National Park which houses the world's deepest lake above sea level. Mount Bachelor during winter is perfect for skiing, sledding and snow shoeing. Visitors to Mount Bachelor often stay in Bend, enjoying its attractions such as the High Desert Museum, the Historic Tower Theatre and the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The nearby Deschutes River will please anglers with its fishing opportunities.

Explore the cultural epicenter of the northwest

Portland, Oregon is one of the nation's most culturally forward cities. Monthly art walks, ethnic graffiti, and eclectic galleries draw fans of visual arts from around the globe. Portland is also home to numerous festivals, including an annual Jazz Fest, several international film festivals, and the Oregon Eclipse, a week long hippie gathering. Make the most of this plethora of activity with a holiday letting within Portland's city limits.

Fans of Native American art and culture need look no further than Oregon. Several powwows are held throughout the year, and there is even a native salmon festival. Traditional and contemporary exhibits are popular, and the Oregon History Museum offers some of the nation's finest. The Warm Springs Reservation has a fascinating museum, and is without a doubt the best place to shop for crafts and souvenirs.

Take a walk on the wild side

Home to mountains, valleys, forests, lakes, and a long coastline, Oregon is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Campers, hikers, and climbers can get away from it all on Mt. Hood, one of the nation's highest peaks. To the east, high plains and desert make up more of the landscape, and are perfect for wildlife viewing, stargazing, and photography. Oregon is also home to Crater Lake, the nation's deepest inland body of water. The park makes an outstanding day trip from the city of Bend.

The Oregon coast is a dazzling wilderness of beaches, rainforests, and rivers. Fishermen flock to the Tilamook coast every fall for the world famous salmon run. Halibut, steelhead, bass, and trout can be caught year-round. Kayaking, whale watching, parasailing, scuba diving, and more are possible during warmer months, as well. Adventurous visitors can even try their hand at self-guided ATV and sandbuggy adventures in the Oregon Dunes recreational area.

Regular events and festivals

The Portland International Film Festival takes place in February, and is a must for movie fans with its range of documentaries as well as foreign films. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival that runs from February to October rolls out an impressive series of theatrical productions. Oregon cherishes its flowers as seen by May's Mother's Day Rhododendron Show, and June's Portland Rose Festival, which also features starlight parades and dragon boat races.

Summer is no doubt the best time to book a holiday home in Oregon, as festival season is in full swing: there's Sandcastle Day, Britt Festivals of Performing Arts, the Oregon Bach Festival and the Waterfront Blues Festival among many others. The year closes on a dreamy note with November's Holiday Lights and Open House at Shore Acres State Park along the coastal cliffs. Bring the year to a close at the Holiday Parade of Ships in December, a traditional event that celebrates Oregon's maritime heritage.

Oregon: Beautiful landscapes and cultural delights in the Pacific North West

Oregon State Capitol

Situated in Salem, this striking building is home to the state government. The grounds are perfect for a casual stroll and feature fountains, artworks and various flora of the state.

Salem's Riverfront Carousel

This exquisite carousel was hand-carved by volunteers and is designed in the classic style. Pick up a memento in the adjacent gift shop.

Columbia River Maritime Museum

Located in Astoria, this maritime museum houses US lifeboats, parts of boats destroyed in WW2 and two gillnetter vessels.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Escape from Oregon's cities and view the stunning landscapes surrounding this canyon. A popular recreational destination, it is perfect for hikes, picnics and water sports.

Crater Lake National Park

Named after the lake formed by a collapsed volcano, this National Park is in the Cascade Mountains. If you're daring enough to hike to the peaks, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views.

Frequently Asked Questions