Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s captivating Willamette Valley, less than an hour from Portland, The Allison Inn & Spa stands as a testament to the perfect harmony between modern luxury and rustic charm.
This tranquil sanctuary, built from the ground up in 2009 by seventh-generation Willamette Valley residents and winery experts Ken and Joan Austin, beckons travelers seeking respite from the everyday hustle and bustle.
My journey to this luxury resort was a captivating immersion into its essence, leaving me both rejuvenated and spellbound.
A Warm Welcome at Check-In
Upon arrival, I was embraced by the inn’s genuine wine-country hospitality. The concierge’s meticulous attention to detail at check-in signaled that The Allison Inn & Spa is more than just a retreat; it’s an authentic escape.
The architecture, with its warm earthy tones, blends seamlessly with the rolling hills and lush vineyards that surround it.
The Austin family’s deep connection to the region and their commitment to showcasing its natural beauty were evident from the moment I arrived.
Guest Rooms at the Allison Inn & Spa
The sprawling 35-acre property in Newberg, Oregon is a masterpiece in itself, with panoramic views of both the wine country and the surrounding farmland.
It was easy to see why all 77 deluxe guest rooms and eight suites were strategically designed to offer different vantage points, ensuring that guests could immerse themselves in the stunning vistas of the Willamette Valley.
My room, adorned in honey and gold hues, exuded an air of luxury with a gorgeous soaking tub, a wood and gas fireplace, and a cozy window seat that provided the perfect spaces for relaxation and contemplation.
On the day I arrived for my getaway, the temperature was high and the air conditioning was a wonderful welcome. It was evident that every element had been carefully chosen to enhance the overall experience.
Stepping outside onto my private balcony, I was greeted by the vast expanse of the Willamette Valley’s Pacific Northwest hillside acres. The vineyards stretched out in all directions, their lush green rows forming a patchwork quilt of nature’s bounty.
In the distance, the rolling hills cradled this idyllic retreat. It was a view that invited contemplation, a reminder of the boundless beauty that surrounded me.
Celebrating the Local Arts Community
At the Allison Inn and Spa commitment to the local arts community was evident throughout the property and within the many event spaces and meeting rooms.
A private art collection, featuring original artwork by local artists, added character and depth to the inn’s ambiance. Each piece seemed to tell a story, connecting the resort to the creative spirit of the Pacific Northwest.
It was a reminder that The Allison was not just a place to unwind but also a platform for celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Dining at JORY Restaurant
However, it was in the realm of culinary excellence that The Allison truly shone. JORY restaurant, the inn’s fine-dining farm-to-table restaurant, is a culinary haven that celebrates the Willamette Valley’s vibrant flavors. The name “JORY” itself is a nod to the volcanic soil that nourishes many of Oregon’s grapevines, setting the stage for a gastronomic adventure.
Executive Chef Jack Strong’s creative touch transformed local produce into delectable masterpieces. From smoked duck breast to cedar-plank wild salmon, each dish celebrated the region’s vibrant flavors.
The Chef-to-Soil Dinner Series highlights the relationship between soil, garden, and cuisine, creating a profound connection to the land. But the allure of JORY extends beyond its delectable cuisine. The Chef’s Garden, situated on the hotel’s grounds, is a testament to The Allison’s commitment to sustainability and showcasing the freshest local ingredients.
It is a feast for the senses, allowing guests to connect with the very source of the culinary delights that graces their plates. Whether dining at the restaurant or enjoying room service, the quality was never less than flawless.
Showcasing Willamette Wines
To complement the sumptuous meals, JORY offers an extensive wine list boasting over 850 wines, the majority of which were organic, biodynamic, and sustainably produced by winemakers in the region.
While such an extensive selection might seem overwhelming, the inn’s insightful sommeliers are always on hand to guide guests through the diverse world of Willamette Valley wines. Their expertise transformed wine selection into an art, ensuring that each glass harmonized perfectly with the meal.
Elaine Heide, The Allison’s wine director, epitomizes the resort’s values. Her support for aspiring professionals and inclusivity in the wine industry reflected the resort’s commitment to community and growth.
The Spa at the Allison
The Allison Spa in Willamette Valley is more than just a gastronomic and oenophile’s paradise; it is a place to unwind, rejuvenate, and connect with nature.
The world-class spa, nestled among the vineyards, offers a sanctuary for relaxation and renewal, boasting a new indoor swimming pool and whirlpool hot tub.
The spa menu, inspired by the natural beauty of the region, showcases luxury treatment rooms with treatments like Pinotherapy facials, incorporating the rejuvenating properties of grape seed extract. It is a place where the stresses of the world melt away, leaving me in a state of pure bliss.
On my last morning at The Allison Inn & Spa in Oregon wine country, after a visit to the state-of-the-art fitness studio I savored a leisurely breakfast on the outdoor terrace, bathing in the soft glow of the rising sun. The valley, now awash in the golden hues of morning, seemed to bid me farewell with a promise to return.
Things to do Near The Allison Inn & Spa
The Allison Inn & Spa beckons guests to explore the world of Willamette Valley wines even further.
Rain Dance Vineyard, located just steps from the lobby, provides an opportunity for wine tastings and to immerse oneself in the terroir of the region. Guided tours lead guests through fields of pinot noir and pinot gris, offering insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the vineyards.
And, to add an unexpected touch of whimsy, llamas grazed in the pastures beyond the vineyards, providing charming companions during the vineyard exploration.
There are a number of winery tours in the area, some including lunch.
Final Thoughts
My retreat to The Willamette Valley was nothing short of transformative. The combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, and the natural beauty of the Willamette Valley had left an indelible mark on my heart.
It is a place where time seemed to stand still, and the worries of the world faded away, replaced by a sense of peace and serenity.
The Allison Inn & Spa located at 2525 Allison Lane in Newberg, Oregon isn’t just a destination; it’s a celebration of the land’s bounty, the spirit of its creators, and the indulgence of its guests.
Whether craving a culinary adventure, spa retreat, or communion with nature, The Allison is a place where the beauty of the Willamette Valley is not just admired but deeply felt, where the flavors of the region are not just savored but celebrated, and where the serenity of nature is not just observed but embraced.
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