Roadtrip! Viewpoint Inn

Photo courtesy Viewpoint Inn

By Christina McCarthy

Ah, spring. Trees bursting with blossoms, the hills taking on that delicious green velvety hue … no wonder love is in the air. Judging from the plethora of wedding-related advertising and events, one might surmise that spring — and the ensuing “official” wedding season — was designed specifically for those with nuptials on the mind.

But spring and summer are also ideal times for, shall we say, “more mature” lovers to celebrate. With the improved weather, one doesn’t have to feel quite so guilty about pawning off the kids or dog on grandma or family friends (after all, they can just play outside, right?). And a quick trip away can be the perfect means for rekindling that flame, and remembering why you fell in love in the first place.

A beautiful three-hour drive from Yakima can take you to one of the most romantic little hideaways imaginable. The View Point Inn, located in Corbett, Ore., invites visitors to step back in time to a place where a leisurely meal and a stroll about the garden are daily — and romantic — activities.

A Treat for the Senses

Looking at photos, you may recognize The View Point Inn. In 2008, the beautiful locale was used to film the prom scene for “Twilight,” a movie based on Stephenie Meyer’s best-selling book of the same name. And really, it’s no wonder the scene was filmed there. The Inn is one of the most beautiful locations in the Northwest, and many brides do indeed choose it for the big event.

But in 1924, when The View Point Inn opened, it served as a teahouse and resort. Located high on a one-acre bluff, the Inn was perfect for both, offering a dramatic, panoramic view of the Columbia River Gorge. Fortunately, little has changed, and on a clear day, you really can see forever.

Designed in a Tudor Arts and Craft style, the inn consists of a warm, elegant dining room on the main floor, and five sleeping rooms upstairs (though one — the Innkeepers Room — has two twin beds, which might be perfect if the kids must come along).

The dining room is centered around a massive and toasty Rumford fireplace and is lined with French doors that open to the westward-facing Sunset Veranda. Enclosed in glass during the cooler months, the veranda faces the jaw-dropping vista, allowing diners to share a sumptuous meal with a truly remarkable view. Baskets of fleecy blankets invite visitors to linger after dining and watch the sunset and the evening lights of Portland and Vancouver materialize.

The meals created by chef Steven Hazel are quite memorable, particularly his carrot ginger soup and his roasted Oregon Quail. Even the salads are works of culinary art, including creative touches such as black grapes covered in goat cheese and rolled in crushed pistachios. And no matter how full you think you are, you’ll want to share a slice of Rouge Valley Blue Cheese Cheesecake or the View Point Inn Crème Brulee.

Old Fashioned Romance

When it’s time to turn in, you’ll find that whatever room you’ve reserved is a true romantic treat. The inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the bedrooms are decorated in the same style as when President Franklin Roosevelt, Charlie Chaplin and European royalty frequented the establishment. It isn’t difficult at all to imagine FDR playing checkers in the aptly named “Roosevelt Suite.”

A bit more eclectic and modern, but still delightfully cozy and romantic, is La Petite Alcove. A favorite of younger couples and children visiting with their parents, La Petite consists of a giant bed and about 30 pillows nestled in a beautiful garret.

Things to Do

Though the View Point Inn is a bit off the beaten path, there are still plenty of attractions and activities to see and do while staying there. The famous Crown Point Vista House is located less than a mile from the inn.

Originally called “Thor’s Heights,” the Vista House opened in 1918 as a rest stop and observatory for travelers on the old Columbia River Gorge Highway, and as a memorial to Oregon’s pioneers. Perched 733 feet above the Columbia River, Vista House offers breathtaking views, a helpful staff, a gift shop and a coffee bar.

Just down the road a bit is Multnomah Falls, the second-tallest year-round waterfall in the United States. Standing at the base, or on the nearby historic footbridge, the spectacular 620-foot wall of rushing water is guaranteed to induce awe and make you want to join the dozens of shutter bugs trying to capture its magnificence. The Multnomah Falls Lodge includes a wonderful gift shop and restaurant and an informative visitor center with detailed hiking maps.

A little farther on is Hood River, home to some of the most spectacular wind surfing in the Northwest. Plenty of viewing areas exist next to the river where you can watch surfers fly past at frightening speeds. For those who are truly adventurous, several Hood River businesses offer equipment rental and lessons.

Whether you and that special someone are into biking, hiking or speed surfing the river; or reading, snoozing and watching the clouds roll by, the View Point Inn offers a perfect romantic respite from everyday life.