Twenty miles away from the eccentric city of Portland lies the Willamette Valley. Known for its lush rolling hills, fertile farmland, and, most notably, its thriving wine industry, this region of Oregon is quickly becoming Napa’s most notable rival.
The drive from Portland to the Willamette Valley is undoubtedly peaceful, consisting of a two-lane highway that hugs acres upon acres of flourishing wineries. One of the wineries, located down a winding road just off the interstate, is home to The Allison Inn and Spa, a luxury resort that couples elegance with comfort.
The Allison, which was built from the ground up in 2009 by seventh-generation Willamette Valley residents Ken and Joan Austin, strikes the perfect balance between modern and homey. The sprawling 35-acre space is surrounded by panoramic views of both the wine country and the surrounding farmland, which all 77 deluxe guest rooms and eight suites have different vantage points of.
Speaking of the accommodations, the rooms are as spacious as the setting itself. Each one has oversize windows that showcase the property, gas fireplaces that warm up the space, and large upholstered window seats that make for the perfect coffee spot. Not to mention, most feature sizable balconies with patio chairs as well as grandiose bathtubs that are accompanied by bath salts made at the hotel’s beloved spa.
As the name implies, one of The Allison Inn and Spa’s most prized possession is, of course, the spa. This relaxing oasis features 12 treatment rooms (including a Vichy room) as well as a large indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, and sun terrace. The spa offers a wide range of treatments including, but not limited to, therapeutic massages, facials, and even signature “pinotherapy” treatments. (Think treatments that incorporate the valley’s renowned pinot noir grapes.)
A few floors above the spa lies JORY, a fine-dining farm-to-table restaurant that offers a fresh, creative menu that spotlights food from the hotel’s very own one-and-a-half acre Chef’s Garden. At JORY – which is named after volcanic soil that cultivates many of Oregon’s grapevines – food and wine aficionados can enjoy local delicacies like pan-seared wild chinook, Alaskan halibut, northwest mussels, foraged mushroom soup, grilled lamb loin, and more. (A la carte, chef’s tasting menus, and in-room dining options are available.) As for what to pair their meals with, diners can peruse an extensive menu that includes over 850 wines, most of which are organic, biodynamic, and sustainably produced by winemakers in the region. Although a wine list with that number of labels might seem daunting, fear not, because the team’s insightful sommeliers will be there to help.
To really take advantage of all resort has to offer, be sure to tour Rain Dance Vineyard, which is located just steps away from the lobby. Linger through fields of pinot noir and pinot gris, and enjoy a wine tasting on the property. Oh, and don’t miss out on the llamas, which can be found in the pastures just beyond the vineyards.
Top Takeaways
Location: Newberg, Oregon
Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: The place to go when you want to relax, unwind, and sip on good wine. It’s the ideal escape for any couple who wants to connect, anyone who wants some time to themselves, or any wine lover who wants to indulge.
Food + Drink: JORY is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (plus brunch on the weekends). Breakfast is available from 6:30 to 10:30 am, lunch is available from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm, and dinner is available from 5:00 to 10:00 pm. In-room dining is also available for guests.
Amenities: Spa; indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness studio, sauna, and steam room; complimentary valet and overnight parking; in-room dining, complimentary in-room snacks; complimentary cribs and high chairs; concierge service; transportation can be arranged for airport or rental car services.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Taking long walks through the property and surrounding hillsides and vineyards. Everything is green, lush, and gorgeous, making it the perfect backdrop for morning strolls, afternoon adventures, and sunset wine walks.
What’s Nearby? Dundee Hills, Ponzi Vineyards, Chehalem Mountains, Eola-Amity Hills, McMinnville, Ribbon Ridge, Van Duzer Corridor, Yamhill-Carlton District.
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Although you can stay and relax on The Allison’s property, it’s worth checking out Portland if you’ve never been. The food scene is quickly growing, becoming more creative and experimental. Plus, the nightlife is equally vibrant and exciting. It’s also worth going to other wineries in the Willamette Valley since there are over 500.
Rooms: 77 deluxe guest rooms and 8 suites.
Pricing: Rates start at $555/night.
Closest Airport: Portland International Airport
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