How to Spend the Perfect 72 Hours in Western Oregon
When we first came to Seven Springs Vineyard nearly 20 years ago, it was immediately clear why Al MacDonald chose this east-facing hillside to help pioneer Eola-Amity Hills wine growing. This hidden gem corner of the world truly has so much to offer, from breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains to natural springs, untouched forests, and beyond. The beauty of western Oregon promises to excite a variety of travelers, from nature lovers to foodies, wine lovers, and more.
In short? This little piece of heaven certainly isn’t lacking in delightful spots to grab a bite and an espresso to refuel. Fresh local seafood, quaint towns, and smart wine shops, check out a few of our favorite places in the slice of Oregon we call home.
Oregon Coast Highlights
Discover Neskowin - The rural, fog-licked route from the Eola-Amity Hills to this sleepy coastal town includes 12 miles in the H.B. Van Duzer Forest State Scenic Corridor, where old-growth Douglas firs and Roosevelt elk trace the road as it follows the Salmon River.
About Neskowin:
One of the oldest beach towns in the state of Oregon, the local post office in Neskowin was established in 1886. The name Neskowin is of Native American origin and thought to mean “plenty of fish.” Neskowin is a charming coastal village with a friendly neighborhood feel and magnificent natural setting.
What to Do in Neskowin:
Neskowin Trading Company - A one-stop shop on this remote stretch of coastline offering house-made espresso, breakfast, lunch and sweets, the century-old gourmet deli and country store has you covered with coffee and a delicious breakfast burrito or fried chicken sandwich for now, along with groceries and goods for the weekend ahead.
Neskowin Beach - Located just a few blocks from Neskowin Trading Company, this beautiful beach is home to a dramatic basalt island called Proposal Rock—and the Neskowin Ghost Forest that offers even more intrigue. This spruce forest, dating to the dawn of the Roman Empire, was dropped by an earthquake into the ocean 300 years ago, killing the trees with salt water while magically preserving their stumps, as wood decomposers can neither survive the salinity. What’s more, like ghosts, they’re not easily seen—only low tides reveal these sand-covered relics.
Visit Chitwood Falls - Located a few minutes outside town, but be sure to check local conditions and Forest Service closures before and during your visit, as this area sees frequent landslides as well as closures in winter and spring for nesting animals.
Trip Highlight: Enjoy Our Seven Springs Vineyard Experience
It is our sheer pleasure to welcome you to the estate. We feel strongly that not only does seeing where something begins unlock a better understanding of its character, but that all wine tastes best in the vineyard from which it was grown.
Join Kevin, Advanced Sommelier and Willamette Valley history buff, on an extensive tour of Seven Springs Vineyard, where we’re proud to continue the legacy of Eola-Amity Hills stalwart Al MacDonald and his historic property. You’ll see the remaining vines from Al’s first planting over 40 years ago, the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay blocks that go into Evening Land’s top cuvées, and new, experimental plantings that represent the future of Seven Springs, all within view of a quartet of volcanic peaks and dense Douglas fir forest. Depending on the season, the only thing you’ll need to bask in the stillness of this tranquil place is an extra layer.
Following your tour, get settled into our relaxed vineyard cabin and enjoy a private tasting of past and present Evening Land wines. We hope the warmth of the fire and the enjoyment of conversation and wine are just as effortless as the sway of the cherry trees outside.
Click here to learn more and book a visit >
McMinnville and Newberg Highlights
McMinnville has become the valley's culinary hotspot for good reason. These are our favorite restaurants:
Hayward - The newest of the bunch, this spot combines elevated comfort food with fresh staples and natural-leaning wines.
Pinch - This special spot takes Italian flavors and a more classic approach to celebrating local ingredients, with timeless wines to match.
Ōkta - Chic and seafood-driven, Ōkta offers a high-end, micro- seasonal tasting menu that sparks intrigue with its élan.
Closer to Portland, you’ll find a compelling food scene in Newberg as well. We recommend these restaurants:
Osteria Rosmarino - A beloved, truly authentic Italian restaurant—there are no fewer than ten amari to enjoy post-dinner—and the place is booked weeks in advance. Get your reservation in early here.
Northwest Seafood - This spot carries major prestige. In an area rife with top-notch, freshly caught products, hungry Washingtonians cross the state line to pick up their seafood here.
The Setting Inn - For a cozy, high-touch but low-key stay, this is your spot. Breakfast is delivered to your room, from which you can enjoy a lush vineyard view.
We’d be remiss not to mention the fantastic dining scene in Portland. Arguably the country’s up-and-coming food Mecca, here are some of our current favorites:
Kann - A James Beard award-winning chef Gregory Gourdet’s ode to his native Haiti, and as The Oregonian’s Top Portland Restaurant in 2022, we can’t recommend it enough.
Xiao Ye - Korean for “midnight snacks,” Xiao Ye offers a modest menu of creative, casual takes from two first-generation Americans.
Coquine - Offers a simpler, more classic feel with gorgeous presentation and a deep wine list
We look forward to seeing you in Western Oregon! Cheers.