Walla Walla, Washington

We stayed at the Plymouth Park Campground in Plymouth, Washington, and probably the least impressive COE we have visited. We did not see the Columbia River even though it ran parallel to the campground. The trees blocked the view from every site.  There was no point where we could put in our kayak, so we decided to take an hour’s drive to Walla Walla.  Its name sounds like something from the movie Charlie and the Chocolate factory. It was a beautiful drive along the Columbia River.  Walla Walla is the capital of wine country and home to 120 wineries.  We waved at the many wineries we passed on the highway and went straight to the town.  We enjoy strolling the main street lined with a variety of stores and wine tasting rooms.  Established around the mid-1800s, the architect of these buildings remain and are impressive.  This trip would not be complete unless you take time to relax and enjoy a wine tasting.  Most of the wine tasting rooms were outside, and we were able to savor the wine and people watch on a beautiful, sunny day.

Laurel Ridge Vineyard – Carlton, Oregon

We had an overnight stop at this Harvest Host.  Oregon has 793 wineries which are second after California. I would have failed that Trivia question.  This vineyard was unique as it not only had a vineyard but also harvested hazelnuts. At the last campground, we had a conversation with a farmer who grew rice and walnuts. It helps to diversify your risk just in case one of your crops suffers.  On the trees, small hazelnuts were beginning to form.  It was a first for us as we had never seen a hazelnut tree.  The creative owners used the outer shells as flower bed coverings throughout the vineyard.  Harvest Hosts are free of charge to members. However, we laugh because it would most likely be less expensive to pay for a night at a campground than the cost of wine and charcuterie board enjoyed at their tasting and purchasing a bottle for the road. Regardless, these stays provide an excellent way to unwind after a long day’s journey.