Unfurling along America's West Coast, all brooding mountains, vineyards, lush forests and ribbons of sand washed by the Pacific, Oregon knows how to do natural beauty. This is a state where you can ski snowy peaks and stroll golden beaches, there are thundering waterfalls that awe and dramatic river valleys. And the wild scenery is peppered with sleepy villages and historic towns, while the largest city Portland is where craft beers, wines and farm-to-table produce celebrate the riches of the land. It's easy to reach, too, with direct flights to Portland from London Heathrow with British Airways. And when you book with British Airways Holidays you can make the most of a range of hotel options to suit all budgets as well as the ability to add a car to your package to further explore the state. You can book with deposits from just £75pp with no balance due until seven weeks before travel for long haul. And if you're a British Airways Club member, you can use your Avios Points for part payment on holiday packages. Once you're on holiday, you'll also enjoy support every step of the way, from roadside assistance to a 24-hour dedicated helpline.
A state of superlatives
Natural wonder abounds in Oregon. Hells Canyon is North America's deepest river gorge; Crater Lake is the deepest in the US and Mt. Hood is the world's second-most-climbed mountain. Add in a breathtaking range of landscapes, from high desert country to painted hills, and exhilarating outdoor adventures await. And you don't need to wait until your destination to enjoy incredible views, Oregon has more scenic byways and tour routes than any other state.
Where will you explore?
With such a diverse mix of destinations, the only thing left to decide is which region to explore. There are seven in total and if you have car hire included, it's easy to map out a route to enjoy all the variety Oregon offers.
Portland Region
Flying into Portland, it makes sense to start your adventure by exploring the city. A haven for lovers of counter-culture, it's a place where you can bike from coffee roasters and bookshops to Waterfront Park. Here you'll find craft brewers and winemakers, food trucks and award-winning restaurants. And this city of museums and parks is surrounded by forested peaks, where you can hike and bike, or kayak Willamette River and its tributaries, explore the Scappoose Bay wetlands or visit boutique wineries.
Oregon Coast
Head west from Portland and you'll hit the Pacific Coast, 363 miles long and dotted with pristine beaches. Go whale-watching and look out for seals and puffins, wander among soaring sand dunes, visit pretty fishing villages and dine on the freshest catch of the day at a cosy beachfront spot. This coastline offers raw beauty in spades.
Mt. Hood and the Columbia River Gorge
Just east of Portland, the snowy slopes of Mt Hood rise from the forested landscape. This is a region where the tallest mountain in the state meets the mightiest river. Follow in the footsteps of adventurous settlers along the Oregon Trail, or drive the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping views outside your window. You can ski, hike, kayak, windsurf and more in this wild region.
Willamette Valley
Full of farm-to-fork dining, and featuring the region's world-beating pinot noir, the wineries of Willamette Valley are poised between vertiginous mountains and an expansive wooded range. Unfurling south of Portland, here you'll find scenic back-country roads made for cycling, waterfalls, charming covered bridges and historic buildings as you follow the Willamette River.
Southern Oregon
A former gold rush region, there is still natural treasure to be discovered in Southern Oregon. See the starry sky reflected in the depths of Crater Lake or bike through epic forest trails with cascading waterfalls. Culture lovers will appreciate the music, theatre and art on display in Ashland and Jacksonville, while wild landscapes range from the magnificent Table Rocks to icy mountains, high desert to rumbling rivers.
Central Oregon
A high desert playground, this is home to adventure, from sparkling rivers to strange, lunar-like landscapes in the summer sun. You'll paddle mirrored lakes and hike to see geologic features left behind by volcanic eruptions as well as soaking up the outdoors lifestyle culture in Sisters. Try white water rafting on the rivers or visit in winter for snow sports. Oregon's famous craft beer scene also has its origins here – the perfect end to a day spent hiking through snowy forests.
Eastern Oregon
Go east and you'll hit cowboy country, with isolated wagon trails winding their way across the wide-open expanse, between Old West ghost towns and Indigenous traditions. Deep river gorges and rocky chasms plunge into the depths, interspersed with high peaks, dusty desert plains and prehistoric fossil beds. Explore the mix of cultures that collided here along the Oregon Trail.
Five tips for exploring Oregon
DON'T MISS... Drive around the edge of Crater Lake through the National Park. The 33-mile trip has stunning views of the island, a remnant of the region's volcanic history, and towering 2000-foot cliffs. Crater Lake itself is almost too blue to be believed, with its vast depth reflecting the wide-open skies.
WATCH OUT… From November to June, the Oregon Coast comes alive with thousands of gray whales making their annual migration down to Mexico. See the waves of a winter storm crashing over the giants of sea during an off-season trip to the coast, with cosy cabins at the end of the day.
LOCAL SECRETS… Get deep into authentic Oregon with a trained local guide. Oregonians are passionate and knowledgeable about their beloved state. From nature hikes to farm tours, whitewater rafting to kayaking, there's a local ready and willing to share their passion with you on a guided tour.
ROAD TRIPS… The state with the most scenic byways isn't short on spectacular drives. The roads of Oregon wind their way through windswept hills and thick forests, alongside thundering waterfalls and dramatic valley gorges, and over mountains and volcanic landscapes. Farm stays and quaint towns await to welcome you.
FOODIE HEAVEN… Oregon Food Trails are culinary destinations designed to pique your interest and your appetite. The region is known for its farm-to-table and highly seasonal focus. Some of the most delicious ingredients in the world and farmed and foraged by passionate professionals, to end up on your plate. Oregon's wild landscapes, vibrant cities and rich foodie epicurean traditions make this a state where you can combine natural wonders with the good life. Book your trip with British Airways Holidays and you'll have everything you need for your American adventure.
BOOKING WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS HOLIDAYS
