Oregon Caves Chateau

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Caves Chateau - an epicenter of sorts

The area around the caves is great hiking. Moderately steep but with good trail and intermittent benches for rests.

The Chateau experience was wonderful. In spite of being there on opening day, the staff was friendly and confident.

Around the area: check out the various botanical walks in the Illinois River Valley. We saw a grove of wild azaleas in bloom as well as a grove of Darlingtonia, Oregon's only carniverous plant (insects only).

And if you have a sturdy vehicle, I'd highly recommend a drive up to the headwaters of the Illinois River - 19 miles and the last parts on gravel. Much of the trip is through the 2002 Biscuit Fire and the new foliage contrasts nicely with the burned snags. Astonishing views of the river gorge from various outlooks.

A photographers paradise, whether for rugged landscape, flowers or deep forest (with a wonderful mixture of old Fir, Cedar and Madrona.

Keywords: Other place to discover, Free, Historic, All year, Remote, Local, Everyone, Unique

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A Real Treasure

Oregon Caves Chateau is a quaint, rustic, retreat. It has charm, character, and it is a blast from the past. Technology is nonexistent and relaxation is everywhere. The food is exquisite and all local. The cave tour is interesting and very informative. All staff members are kind, including the Chateau ghost! I recommend talking to Leo at the front desk. He is a walking storybook. Overall the Chateau is a great place for anyone looking for a comfortable, secluded hotel.

Keywords: Just you alone / As a single, With teens, Historic, Authentic, Close to public transportation, Scenic location, Remote, Local, With a group, Summer (June - August), Unique, With kids, As a couple, US$ 26 - US$ 50, Fall (September - November), Spring (March - May)

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Oregon Caves Chateau-a hideaway from America's past

We took our two girls, early teens, for a getaway to this grand lodge hidden in the forest at the Oregon Caves. This isn't the place to go for big screen tv and cutting edge modernity. Instead it is a slow-paced haven where playing cards in the lobby in the late afternoon over a glass of wine seems just right. The scent of the forest permeates the air. The rooms take you back to an older and more mythic time in America; nicely appointed but not fancy. And the tour through the Caves is fascinating. Food is very decent- once you're here it's a long way back to the nearest town. This is a true getaway. How did the teens like it? They loved it. Oh....did I mention there's a ghost? The Oregon Caves Chateau is a treasure.

Keywords: Other place to discover, With teens, Historic, Authentic, Scenic location, Remote, Summer (June - August), Unique, With kids, As a couple, Fall (September - November)