When I think of romance, the first things that pop into my head are a dimly lit restaurant, flowers, chocolate dipped strawberries and a quiet night filled with candles or a low burning fire. All things that are well and good, but can be quickly overdone and mundane if they are a regular part of the relationship. Now don’t get me wrong, I like a bouquet of flowers and a glass of sparkling wine as much as the next girl; but sometimes a relationship needs more than just the flicker of candles to keep the spark alive.
As a resident and traveler in and around Oregon I have discovered that its vast forests, open desert and scenic coastline create a unique series of settings that are perfect for spurring romance, passion and adventure. Not only does thinking outside the box allow couples to explore the many odd, exciting and historical romantic adventures that the state has to offer but it also gives them a chance to push beyond the comfort zone of their relationships in ways that bring them closer together.
OregonCoast Scenic Railroad
OSCR.net
Cost: $16 to $69 per person depending on tour
Location: Train Depots in Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Reservations: Call (503) 842-7972
The Oregon coast is known for its scenic beauty. With breathtakingly rocky drop-offs at the edge of the national forest and expansive seascapes, the coastline is often at the top of many Oregon travelers “must-see” lists. Whether you’ve been up and down historic Highway 101 a dozen times or you are taking your first trip to the Oregon coast, the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad will provide you with a unique spin on Oregon’s beauty and history as you are pulled down the tracks behind a 1910 Heisler Steam Locomotive.
Oregon Surf Adventures: Lesson for Two
Oregonsurfadventures.com
Cost: $139 per person
Location: Seaside Surf Shop; 1116 S. Roosevelt, Seaside, Oregon
Reservations: Call (503)436-1481
Although Seaside is widely known for its sandcastles and stunt kites, it’s also the perfect place for Oregon travelers to get their feet wet with surf lessons. Because of Oregon’s cooler waters, the surf lesson for two is probably best suited for couples looking for romantic adventures in the summer months… but don’t forget that after you’ve completed your lesson there are an abundance of romantic hotels and cabins throughout Seaside for cuddling up to get warm afterwards.
Portland Rock Gym: Private Lesson for Two
Portlandrockgym.com
Cost: $45 for the first adult, $20 for the second
Location: Porland Rock Gym; 21 NE 12th Ave, Portland, Oregon
Reservations: Call (503)232-8310
If you and your sweetheart are looking to get physical without having to deal with the elements, consider the incredible indoor rock-climbing experience provided by Portland Rock Gym. The substantial climbing slab offers over 150 boulder problems, up to 100 different routes to the top and the lessons can be tailored to your individual skill levels.
Oregon Caves National Monument Candle Light Cave Tours
NPS.gov
Cost: $8.50 per person
Location: Redwood National Park, near Grants Pass, Oregon
Reservations: Call (541)592-2100
For those couples wanting to bond while seeing a part of Oregon that is rarely explored by the average tourist, head down below the roots of Oregon’s redwood forest to discover the magical beauty of the caves. Make the trip an even more romantic adventure by signing up to tour the caves by the flicker of candle light.
Cascade Soaring: Mile High Flight
Cascadesoaring.com
Cost: $230 for two
Location: Hood River and The Dalles, Oregon
Reservations: Call (503)472-8805
Explore the amazing world of gliding together in this unique gliding package from Cascade Soaring. Not only will the flight name prompt couples to giggle like teenagers, but the one-mile tow allows you to take in an extended view of the flight area and provide a longer glide.
Hells Canyon Adventures: The Overnighter Jetboat Tour
Hellscanyonadventures.com
Cost: $300 per person
Location: Oxbow, Oregon
Reservations: Call (800)422-3568
Although Hells Canyon Adventures provides a host of tours, the most exciting romantic adventure on their roster is sure to be “The Overnighter”. A two day tour of the Hells Canyon area, couples get to explore three states, view multiple river mouths and travel through white-water in an exciting (and safe) jetboat. Spanning more than two hundred miles, couples are provided mid-way accommodations and lunch in the canyon.
Breitenbush Hot Springs
Breitenbush.com
Cost: $69 per person and up depending on accommodations
Location: near Detroit, Oregon
Reservations: Call (503)854-3320
If you and your loved one are looking for a romantic adventure at a slower pace, consider visiting the Breitenbush Hot Springs. The natural hot spring pools and sauna, geo-thermal heated cabins, workshops and programs are all designed to help you relax and enjoy a slower pace while surrounded by a classic Oregon setting. Hiking trails, massage, organic vegetarian cuisine and the hot springs will all provide you ample opportunity to try something new. And if you find yourself wanting to really cut loose, take advantage of the hot springs’ clothing optional policy.
Sandland Adventures
Sandland.com
Cost: $28 per person and up depending on tour length
Location: 85366 Hwy 101 So, Florence, Oregon 97439
Reservations: Call (541)997-8087
Oregon’s rolling sand dunes are an incredible departure from the rest of the state’s landscape, and there’s no better way to explore them than by rolling across them in a dune buggy. If you or your companion doesn’t happen to own your own ATV, Sandland Adventures can take you both on an elating tour that will have you both gripping your seats.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
Portlandspirit.com
Cost: $28 per person and up depending on tour
Location: Boarding in Cascade Locks, Oregon
Reservations: Call (503)224-3900
Another wonderful tour that takes travelers back in time, the Sternwheeler will take you and your loved one on a relaxing tour of the Columbia Gorge. A triple-deck paddle wheeler modeled after a Missouri River boat, the Sternwheeler provides tours that will not only wow you with romantic views and scenery, but will also teach the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition while you travel.
Central Oregon Adventures Snowmobile Tours
Therecreationgroup.com
Cost: $170 and up depending on tour and rental needs
Location: Sunriver, Oregon
Resrvations: Call (541)593-8895
No list of romantic adventures in Oregon would be complete without a trip to the mountain. Mt. Bachelor is the perfect winter backdrop for snowmobile tours with Central Oregon Adventures, the only Snomobile permit holder in the Deschutes National Forest. Providing both seasoned and professional tour staff to keep you on track, and Snowmobile rentals to get new partners out on the snow trails, this is one adventure that both of you will remember every time you see snowfall.
With such a variety of natural terrain crammed within Oregon’s borders, it’s easy for adventurous couples to find an activity suited to their fitness and energy levels. Trying new things while traveling is one of the things I like the most about exploring unfamiliar places. I hope you and your loved one will give one of these many romantic adventures a try the next time you’re in Oregon… you never know where the excitement might lead!
Reference:
- www.associatedcontent.com/article/7689740/3_ways_to_travel_the_world_for_free.html?ca
- www.associatedcontent.com/article/6222036/avoiding_the_dangers_of_winter_weather.html
- www.associatedcontent.com/article/6004394/travel_by_train_this_holiday_season.html?ca
