SMS and I went to my youngest cousin’s wedding earlier this month. My cousin and his wife are teachers near Ashland, OR. Their wedding was held at Lithia Springs Resort, where a lot of us stayed for the weekend.
We had the best time! We arrived Friday at lunch. We met my sister at the airport and the three of us drove to Ashland to pick up lunch. SMS’ co-worker lived in Ashland and had given us a list of recommendations. We ordered sandwiches for the three of us, as well as my parents. We ate by the hotel pool while we waited for our room.
Since the wait was longer than we wanted to hang out, we went to a winery. We chose Irvine & Roberts Vineyard, which was an excellent choice. Belle Fiore had also been recommended, but it seemed a little more corporate. I&R is a beautiful tasting room with extensive outdoor seating mostly covered by awnings. It was awesome. Although the wine was good, the highlights were the company and the views. We went with our immediate group, as well as one of my Dad’s brother and my aunt.
That evening, we went into town and had beers at Skout Taphouse. I found open picnic tables in the back, which was a real find because it perfectly accommodated our party size! The town shuts down surprisingly early (9p, although I think we were there until 9:30). We had a great time and could not wait for the next day.
The next day, my brother, sister, SMS and I went Lithia Springs park and walked along the forest paved path. It was really nice. We also drank the spring water in the town’s main square (yuck, but we did it!). It was a sulfury, effervescent turbid brew. One very small sip was enough for me.
That evening it was wedding time! It was so much fun.
The next day, SMS and I dropped my sister and parents off at the airport. Then we went to Jacksonville, which my aunt and uncle had enjoyed. It was fine. We went to the small open-air market and enjoyed the main streets historic storefronts. Definitely not a must-do, but enjoyable. Then, we went to the world’s slowest vegan cafe followed by a return trip to the airport to head home.
It looks like you had a wonderful time! I’ve been to Ashland a few times, as a place to stop on the drive to or from Portland. We have seen a few plays there, which is really fun, and I had the best Marionberry pie ever from a little bakery. Your trip shows that there is more to do in addition to the plays and baked goods! It’s really pretty there.
Your comment really makes me wish that I had a slice of marionberry pie!!