Beer and bikes two of Portland’s greatest passions, two cultures in Oregon´s largest city
OREGON: With many mouth-watering pit stops this American state is ideal for a road trip. From Portland, head east towards the Wallowa Mountains. Make a stop a Carman Ranch near the town of Wallowa, a family-owned cattle ranch that specializes in natural beef. That means no growth hormones, no antibiotics, and an all-natural grass diet. This combination results in extraordinarily tender and delicious meat in Oregon.
The owners are fourth-generation ranchers. They are committed to raising cattle with respect for the animals as well as the beautiful mountain landscape surrounding the farm. The family welcomes visitors who want to see the animals and learn more about life on a real Oregon cattle ranch and how the family works to make the product more sustainable. Make sure you call ahead.
Spend the night at a cosy traditional lodge, for instance Service Creek Stage Stop Here also features a restaurant that serves up New York Steaks and home-made pies. Guided fishing, rafting, and eco-tour trips on the scenic John DayRiver are available in this tiny town.
The Beer town USA
Head west again towards Bend, a mountain town of only 82,000 people which was recently named America’s 7th best beer town. Bend has one brewery per 9111 inhabitants, making the town’s nickname ‘Beer Town USA’ well-deserved. The city’s tourist board has put together the route Bend Ale Trail, which leads beer fans past all craft breweries in town.
Pork and salmon
Just outside Bend, in the old railroad town of Terrebonne, Terrebonne Depot serves up locally grown foods. Like pork belly and grilled salmon in a unique and casual environment. The restaurant’s New American cuisine is prepared according to season and showcases the variety of flavours found in the Cascade region.
Beer and bikes
Beer and bikes are two of Portland’s greatest passions. The two cultures often overlap in Oregon’s largest city, which has plenty to offer both beer and bike fans. Exploring the city’s beer scene through pedal power is an unforgettable experience. Rent a bike and enjoy the smell of fresh beer brewing as you ride through the city. The Bike & Brew tour focuses on beer destinations on the east-side of town, such as Burnside Brewing Co. – famous for experimental ingredients and a menu heavy with meat. The Bike & Brew tour is not an invitation to get drunk and ride your bike.
Wine harvest
The wine harvest season is here, and North Willamette Valley welcomes visitors on private harvest tours. The tours include a guided bus tour to four local vineyards, with complimentary tastings. You will walk the vineyard, work on the crush pad, and help in the winery, discovering each step of the winemaking process with the professionals. Your fourth stop will be at Sake One where you will learn about Sake “harvest”. The day includes a wine country lunch at one of your winery stops with a customized menu.
More inspiration: On the road – Let´s ride Route66
