Introducing the Oregon Women’s Weekend

Join us in the City of Roses, Portland, Oregon. Photo by Tabitha Mort.

By Regina Winkle-Bryan

You’ve probably heard this at least once today, but these are unprecedented times. Many businesses are quickly making creative shifts in order to stay afloat. For us as a tour operator, our creative solution is to provide experiences that are closer to home. Let me explain.

As some of you know, I am from Oregon (in fact, so is Mary Jane). I grew up outside of Portland before moving abroad. When I returned to the United States with my husband (and our dog), we lived in Oregon for several years before coming up to Seattle. No matter how far I travel, I consider myself an Oregonian at heart.

All this is to say that I have been dreaming about creating tours around my home state for quite some time. I collaborated on an eclipse photography tour a few years back that never ended up coming to fruition (maybe someday!).

Oregonians are proud of their state’s natural splendor. Photo by Elijah Akala.

The pandemic has provided an opportunity for me to bring a regional trip forward sooner than I expected. At first, my focus was on Europe. But now, with borders closed and considerable concerns about long international flights, I see the wisdom in offering tours that only require a drive or a short flight. Enter the Oregon Women’s Weekend. It’s going to be epic.

This weekend getaway differs from our longer overseas trips in a few ways. Let me break them down for you:

-It’s short. This is a long weekend trip, so you don’t need to take much time off work or your other responsibilities to enjoy it. It’s just four days total, including travel.

-It’s hyper-focused. We will be based in Portland and will explore the Willamette Valley and Silver Falls State Park on a day trip.

-It’s less expensive. While our European trips cost around $4000, the Oregon Women’s Weekend is more accessible at $1395.

-It’s happening in August 2020 and June 2021. We avoid Southern Europe in August—too hot—but Oregon is downright dreamy in the summer. Swoon.

During the Oregon Women’s Weekend, you will dine at some of the city’s most iconic restaurants. Photo by Terje Sollie.

Fundamentally, however, the trip’s structure and mission are the same as any of our other journeys. The goal is still for you to connect with other adventurous women while taking a deep dive into local culture. We will eat well, play, and learn about a city that is sure to steal your heart.

Sounds intriguing, right?

I am including a short description of this tour below. To learn even more about the Oregon Women’s Weekend, click here. I can’t wait to show you around my hometown!

You will explore the International Rose Test Garden in Portland, with over 10,000 rose bushes. Photo by Adrianna Calvo.

Oregon Women’s Weekend Overview:

Welcome to your perfect break in the Pacific Northwest, where giant trees frame snowy volcanoes and plump rivers rush to the ocean. Spend a long weekend exploring Portland and the Willamette Valley with a group of fun and adventurous women like you. Forge new connections while exploring Oregon’s food, wine, history, and the great outdoors.

Oregonians are proud of their state’s natural beauty, and you’ll soon find out why as you visit powerful waterfalls tucked into emerald forests. You will wind through rolling hills to learn a thing or two about pinot noir from local experts. Plan to swirl and sip at some of the Willamette Valley’s top vineyards.

Then, discover why Portland’s other moniker is the City of Roses while stopping to smell the (thousands) of flowers at the International Rose Test Garden and the Pittock Mansion. Plus, get the lay of the land and hear some local lore while partaking in a guided walking excursion of downtown Portland.

You have probably heard about Portland’s dynamic foodie scene. This is your chance to dig into the delicious side of the city during our group meals at iconic eateries. But it doesn’t stop there—you’ll take your taste buds for a spin during a culinary tour led by an enthusiastic gourmand. Plus, you’ll stay in a beautiful hotel in the heart of the city, where you will have easy access to excellent shops, cafes, and bars.

Spend a day with your Bold Spirit crew visiting the Willamette Valley’s top vineyards. Photo by David.

Are you ready for this effortless escape to one of the friendliest cities in the country? Leave the details to us and prepare to be impressed by the City of Roses.

To learn more about this weekend escape, including dates, pricing, and a detailed list of what is and is not included, see our Journeys Page here.

Do you have questions or comments about the Oregon Women’s Weekend? Good. We have answers, and we love to get emails from you. Or get in touch on Facebook or Instagram.