With spring break a distant memory and summer vacation on the far horizon, a May getaway is in order. And Oregon’s green lodging options make it easy to tread lightly while putting your feet up. Relax at these eco-conscious hotels and lodges and feel great while contributing to the greener good.
WildSpring Guest Habitat
In your secluded cabin suite at WildSpring Guest Habitat near Port Orford, you’ll find your own natural (pampered) environment — radiant heat floors, antique furnishings and luxury linens. Add to that the enormous slate hot tub overlooking the ocean and wooded grounds, and you’ll decide it’s your home away from home. Among other green practices, the company uses natural cleaning products, cotton fabrics and chemical-free landscaping on this carbon-neutral property. Find peace of mind in the walking labyrinth, set in a beautiful grove of tall trees.
Timberline Lodge
The rustic wood beams, grand stone fireplace and regional artwork of historic Timberline Lodge connect visitors immediately to Mt. Hood and its forests, which provided materials and inspiration for this Depression-era jewel. Sit fireside and gaze out at the 11,250-foot peak, which looks close enough to touch, while considering Timberline’s many eco-friendly programs, like wind energy offsets, National Forest Foundation partnership and local salmon restoration. Head up the mountain and look for brilliant summer wildflowers on your way to Paradise Park, a gorgeous, 12-mile round-trip hike right from the lodge.
Five Pine Lodge
Set among the pine trees near Sisters, Five Pine Lodge marries old-fashioned mountain lodge traditions with modern design. Behind the gleaming woodwork, stone and tile features, elegant fireplaces and handcrafted Mission-style furniture lies a minimal impact building approach, tank-less water heaters, sustainably built furniture, energy efficient heating and cooling and native landscaping. Don’t miss Three Creeks Brewing and the four-screen Sisters Movie House (both on campus) as well as scores of nearby hiking and mountain biking trails.
The Heathman Hotel
Before Portland was hip, it was elegant, as The Heathman Hotel reminds us. The 1927 boutique hotel’s $4 million landfill-free renovation in 2009, along with its Forest Stewardship Council-certified Caribbean teak, reduced water and gas usage and reused materials, makes the luxurious guestrooms and design all the more beautiful. The Heathman puts you right in the heart of downtown Portland, so you can explore the artsy theater district, the urban cool of the Pearl District and the historic charm of Old Town.
As part of Travel Oregon’s Sustainable Business Challenge, these businesses and others voluntarily report their sustainable and environmental business practices, which are measured against established global criteria. You can join the effort by spending your dollars at participating breweries, golf courses, museums and lodging properties.
