A relaxing getaway on the banks of Portland, Oregon’s Willamette River.
For many, a getaway doesn’t consist of beaches and views but rather exploring cities and urban destinations. On the banks of the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon, lies the Avalon Hotel & Spa located just a mile from the downtown area. With a cool architectural design, this luxury retreat is the tenth hotel in the world (and the first in Oregon), to be certified as a LEED hotel by the U.S. Green Building Council.
The Avalon features the best of both worlds. Not only are there plenty of outdoor activities such as a biking and jogging trail alongside the river, but the hotel is perfectly situated close to the shopping district. At the end of the day’s adventures, guests can recoup in The Avalon’s spa, offering an array of services (a Hot Salt Tub Soak, anyone?) in addition to a whirlpool, sauna, and steam room.
We also love that The Avalon is situated next to Cottonwood Bay Park, a protected green space that has one of the few remaining stands of cottonwood trees along the Willamette River. Additionally, the hotel has over 800 protected square feet of natural habitat where species of butterflies can be spotted.
If you go: The Avalon’s new Aquariva Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar is perfectly positioned on the river and guests can enjoy an after-dinner stroll along the waterfront walking path. Rates start at $189.00 USD.
Places & Spaces is a travel guide that will inspire you to carve out a vacation on your calendar. All of the gorgeous locations and accommodations in our guide share our concern for the environment. From tent glamping to lavish built environments, fair warning, you’ll feel compelled to pack your suitcase.