Forest Grove Travel Guide

A tiny place on the edge of the Portland area where Oregon hasn't changed much for 30 years but it has everything a person could want including the beach, bus transit to Portland, Skiing and windsurfing (depending on seasons which are generally mild) all within a hour drive.

The magical surprise is McMenamins Grand Lodge with music, movies, restaurant, 4 bars, frisbee golf course, spa and a discreet Japanese soaking pool. If you're hung up about having a private bath you might have to rethink this but the rooms are inexpensive and comfortable and extremely quiet in the off season (check their website for winter discounts). If you like marble and quirky decor the beds are very comfy, coffee is good, people are very nice and you can take over one of the sitting rooms with a drink and a good book before bed. Pretend you're Lord or lady of your own English manor - no one will blame you.