Oregon with Laura, Scott, and Joe
September 24 - 29, 2024
Oregon awaits . . .
As the golden hour light spills over Oregon's lush landscapes, you're sipping a Pinot Noir that tells a story of the soil it sprang from. This moment is just a taste of what's to come. From the verdant Columbia Gorge to the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley, every stop is a chapter in Oregon's culinary narrative. Imagine dinners where every ingredient has a tale, shared with fellow enthusiasts against the backdrop of lush vineyards. This journey isn't just a trip; it's an immersion into the intimate dance of food, wine, and the artisan hands that craft them, inviting you to slow down and savor Oregon's epicurean symphony.
Why you should travel with Scott and Joe
“Our passion for food and wine is infectious. Not only will we take you to places and offer experiences you would never come across on your own, we promise a gay old time and a fabulously fun experience the entire trip.”
Scott has a background as a professional event and travel planner, communications expert, and fundraiser, with over 15 years of experience. Joe is the owner of Creative Arts Workshop, and a connoisseur of all things local as owner and operator of the highly successful Joey G’s Nyack Food Tours, where he uses his charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent to expertly advise guests on the ins and outs of Nyack, NY. As a well-traveled couple, they know how to do it right - from choosing the best of the best restaurants, vineyards, and live entertainment, to knowing how to truly relax. A trip with Scott and Joe is a trip you will be obsessed with.
Why you should travel with Laura McGlynn
“Oregon is, honestly, magic. I’d love to help you discover the diversity of landscapes and experiences in this stunningly beautiful state, where there is truly something for every kind of traveler.”
Laura McGlynn, the creative force behind View and Vine, brings a unique blend of local insight and personal passion to crafting unforgettable Oregon experiences. Since her move to the Willamette Valley in 2014, Laura's journey from wine tourist to local expert has been marked by her dedication to discovering and sharing the best of Oregon's culinary and natural landscapes. With extensive personal exploration and deep-rooted connections across Oregon’s wine, food, and hospitality industries, Laura specializes in creating personalized journeys that delve into the heart of Oregon's diverse offerings. Her commitment to detail and exclusive access ensures each itinerary she designs is a testament to her love for the region, offering clients insider experiences that highlight Oregon's rich bounty from vineyard to table.
Our Itinerary
Waterfalls,
the Columbia Gorge, and
a Warm Welcome
Day 1
Arrive in Portland where you will be whisked off to Multnomah Falls and have an opportunity to take a light hike up to the mid-falls bridge for an incredible view and some great photo opps. We’ll stop in Cascade Locks for a lunch and a craft brew and stunning views of the Columbia River and Bridge of the Gods.
We will then drive along the Columbia Gorge en route to Ruby June Inn in Husum, WA, a beautifully cozy inn across from the rapids of the White Salmon River. Once everyone is settled into their luxurious rooms (we'll have the inn to ourselves for the two days of our stay), we'll gather al fresco for a glass of wine, snacks, and lively conversation. A family-style dinner highlighting local growers and producers will follow, prepared just for our group by chef Anthony Dao, a PNW native with a resume from NYC (The Nomad Hotel, The Finch, Casa Mono) to Seattle (Vif, The London Plane) and finally to the Gorge (Hiyu Wine Farm). Anthony will share the stories behind the makers of the ingredients we'll be enjoying, as we sip the selection of local wines he's chosen to pair with the meal.
Day 2
We’ll enjoy a light breakfast at the inn, then board the van for a day of exploring the north Gorge area. We’ll spend the morning foraging for mushrooms and other edibles in the foggy fall forest, where we'll get an introduction to mushroom identification, proper foraging technique, and how to prepare and preserve edible mushrooms from an expert local guide. Afterwards, we'll relax with a laid-back wine tasting and lunch at a local winery, where you'll try exceptional local wines with views of the stunning landscape.
We’ll depart the winery for a short ride to your choice of either White Salmon or downtown Hood River. Both towns have lots of shopping, a brewery and dinner options for you to discover on your own. We’ll provide a list of our favorites, of course, to help you decide.
Foraging & Wine in the Gorge
Exploring the Fruit Loop and an Epic Wine Farm Lunch
Day 3
After a light breakfast at the inn, we’ll pack up and say goodbye to our kind hosts and board the van for a short journey on the Fruit Loop, a 35-mile scenic loop among the farms, orchards, wineries and breweries of the Hood River Valley. We’ll make a few stops along the way, according to the group's interests; a few of our favorites:
Honeycrisp apple picking (it will be high season!), Dahlias and great ambiance at Draper Girls
Flower and berry picking, plus cider sampling, at The Gorge White House
“Treats & ‘Tiques” (antiquing and soda fountain with Tillamook Ice Cream) at The Old Trunk
Pastries, ice cream, and homemade jams at Apple Valley Country Store
After we make the rounds, we’ll gather at a local winery for a glorious multi-course lunch paired with wine, cider and craft brews.
After making our way from the Gorge through the ‘burbs of Portland and into the Willamette Valley, we’ll drive up into the stunningly scenic Dundee Hills. Passing rows of vineyards, we’ll make a quick stop at the tiny Briar Rose Creamery farm store for an opportunity to taste their award-winning cheeses (and perhaps nab a goat cheese truffle or two).
Arrive at Douglas on Third, our home for two nights in McMinnville.
We’ll get you checked into your suite at this charming boutique hotel and set you loose on the town to enjoy historic Third Street and its bars, restaurants and tasting rooms - with a list of our favorites, of course.
Day 4
Wine and Food Tasting in the Willamette Valley
With a jam-packed day of Food & Wine Tasting ahead, we’ll give you some free time this morning. You can choose freshly roasted coffee and local baked goods from Flag & Wire next door, a more substantial hot breakfast from the many downtown restaurants (we’ll provide a list of our favorites), or just sleep in, your choice! We’ll have plenty of food opps in the day.
First, we'll drive up into the Dundee Hills and head to Durant for an Olive Mill Tour & Tasting - the only one of its kind in Oregon. You'll also have an opportunity to shop for gourmet items and gifts in their farm shop (our absolute favorite in the valley).
Next, we'll take a stunning route up into the Chehalem Mountains on our way to Flâneur's La Belle Promenade Vineyard. Here, amidst the scenic beauty of the high elevation vineyards and coastal range, you'll dive into the terroir through a handpicked selection of sparkling, white and red wines. A specially prepared lunch will complement the experience, and you'll have the opportunity to explore the vineyard or go deeper into your education on the wines with guidance from our expert host.
After lunch, we'll take a winding path back down the mountain enroute to our next destination, Privé Vineyard, where we’ll be greeted by winemaker/owner Piper Underbrink (accompanied by the sweetest resident winery dogs). Piper will give us an insider's look at operations in the cellar and vineyard, and if harvest is underway, we may just get a chance to pitch in! Either way, we'll enjoy a comprehensive tasting of Piper's wines and the chance to ask anything you've ever wanted to know about what it's like to run (and live at) a boutique winery operation.
Finally, we will head back up into the Chehalem Mountains to end our day at Sosta House for a Cooking Class & Collaborative Winemaker Dinner. Your afternoon will begin with a welcoming glass of bubbles and snacks on the lawn, where Mia shares stories about the history of her family and the beautiful property that has been home to three generations of Ponzis, true pioneers of Oregon wine. We'll head off on a brief walking tour to meet the animals, see the gardens, and perhaps pick some ingredients for dinner before heading inside for a hands-on pasta-making session with Chef Mia. Next, we'll head to the winery next door for a barrel tasting with the winemakers before sitting down to a dinner among the vines. As the sun sets, you'll enjoy a multi-course meal featuring courses you've helped create paired with the exquisite wines made on site. We'll end the evening with a selection of desserts and cheeses enjoyed outside by the fire - a cozy end to a truly memorable day.
Day 5
All the Cheese & Urban Wineries in Portland
We will arrive at the Wedge Cheese Festival for their early VIP entry and have a guided tour of this epic farmers market-style event, where we'll sample and purchase local artisan cheese, specialty foods, wine, spirits, and cider.
Afterwards, we'll have the opportunity for a little gastronomic exploration of Portland. We'll take you to one of our favorite neighborhoods and hit all the most famous foodie spots in the city, like: Olympic Provisions, Voodoo vs. Blue Star doughnuts, Stumptown Coffee, Steven Smith Teas, Salt & Straw ice cream, and an iconic food truck pod. If there is anything you've always wanted to try, we'll do our best to fit it in!
We will then check into the Kimpton Riverplace and give you a chance to freshen up before heading over to one of the best wine bars in Portland for our farewell dinner. We'll experience a multi-course plated meal with expertly paired wines as we reflect on the trip and everything we've learned and enjoyed.
Beautifully curated accommodations—scenic days lead to nights full of food and wine that send you off to dreamland in style.
*On rare occasions, our hotels will change.
Where We Sleep
Ruby June Inn
HUSUM, WA
Set directly across from the White Salmon River, Ruby June Inn is a warm and welcoming inn for travelers, adventure lovers & locals to unplug and share in community.
Whether you’re starting off your day with a cup of French press coffee on the patio, or slowing down with a glass of wine by the campfire after a day of adventuring, we invite you to share home with us.
Douglas On Third
MCMINNVILLE, OR
At Douglas On Third, located in the heart of downtown McMinnville on charming Third Street, you'll be perfectly positioned to soak in the charm of a town celebrated for being "Oregon's Favorite Main Street." Your stay bridges the warmth of historic McMinnville with the tailored comforts of modern living, all within walking distance to an array of award-winning restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and, of course, the famed local wineries and tasting rooms that dot this vibrant community.
Each suite, from the cozier suites to the more spacious corner suite accommodations, is thoughtfully designed with queen or king beds, kitchenettes (perfect for to whip up a breakfast made with provisions you've gathered), and little luxuries like plush robes and a separate lounge space. It's your cozy retreat after our days filled with vineyard explorations and epic meals.
Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel
PORTLAND, OR
Nothing seems scripted or rushed here. Much like the mesmerizing river that flows outside the front door, all unfolds naturally within this welcoming and tranquil Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel. Our alluring spaces seamlessly meld refined elegance with lodge-like comfort. Nestled just south of downtown Portland on a pedestrian river walk, guests find a luxurious retreat that offers access to both an invigorating urban buzz and an enchanting natural landscape.
Nature, Wine, Cheese, and the Gays
Our food and wine centered exploration of Oregon ending with The Wedge Portland, Oregon’s finest artisan goods festival.
September 24 - 29, 2024
11 spots left
From Portland to the Hood River Valley, to Willamette Valley and back again; eating and drinking your way through this glorious, off the beaten path wine country.
5 Days, 5 Nights
Price from
4,980
Per person based on double occupancy
Questions? Email Laura directly:
laura@viewandvine.com
Book Oregon with Laura, Scott and Joe
Any Questions?
Find additional answers to common questions by clicking here.
What’s included in the price?
Five nights at boutique accommodations; private travel for all day trips and excursions; private tours with local guides and cultural experts; exclusive VIP access and tastings; guided activities, adventures and expeditions; arrival and departure airport transfer; entrance fees; daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners; local beverages with meals.
Is there a solo traveler supplement?
For solo travelers, there is a $1,100 single-supplement fee—paid at the time of booking to secure a private room. These spots are extremely limited and available on a first come, first serve basis.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you cancel on or before July 23, 2024 there is a 50% cancellation fee. On or after July 24, 2024 there is a 100% cancellation fee. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance as we are not able to make exceptions to this policy in cases of family/medical emergency.
What isn’t included in the price?
Roundtrip airfare; travel insurance; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverages not included in itinerary; gratuity for tour leader.
Who is going on the trip?
This trip will have no more than 11 guests, and our S&J Adventures Team. Our experiences are fun and inclusive and you can expect to be joined by a diverse group in terms of age, background and interests—including solo travelers, couples and friends traveling together. This adventure is for travelers age 21 and above.
Where does the trip start and end?
The trip begins and ends in Portland, OR. Guests should arrive at Portland International Airport (PDX) by noon. The most convenient flight from the NYC area is a nonstop on Delta out of JFK at 8:30am, arriving at 11:42am. You may also choose to fly out the day(s) before and enjoy the area on your own.
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs; if your trip plans change for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to get medical help, emergency transport, and for theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. For best coverage, always insure the full trip cost within one week of your initial trip deposit and note that most ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ policies must be purchased on the date of your initial deposit.