With the approach of Valentine’s Day weekend, couples throughout Eugene will begin the annual struggle to come up with new ways to express their love. While last-minute roses might be enough, few gestures match a weekend getaway for romantic potential. Just try to skip the truck stop motel, and head somewhere a bit more interesting.
In southern Oregon, amorous
opportunities abound.
Out ‘n’ About Treesort, Cave Junction
Perhaps it’s the large wooden pirate ship in the front yard, but visitors can’t ignore the sense of playfulness at this village in the sky. For 15 years the owners of this alternative bed and breakfast have invited guests to stay in their 10 tree houses, each built with unique character. There’s the Forestree; a one-room hideaway lofted 35 feet in the air, accessible only by crossing a rope bridge. The cozy Treeloon is modeled after an old west saloon and comes with a queen-sized bed, while the impressive Treeroom Schoolhouse Suite has stained-glass doors and an antique claw-foot bathtub — ideal for a late-night soak. According to www.treehouses.com, romantic interludes are the Treesort’s
off-season “specialtree.”
“It brings back the inner child,” says Melody O’Donnell, the self-described “Breakfast Fairy” of Out ‘n’ About. “When people first arrive, their necks are crooked back, and they’ve all got smiles on their faces.”
Winter rates range from $80 to $145 per night, and reservations can be made by calling the Treesort at (541) 592-2208. Occupancy includes bedding, towels and breakfast.
Umpqua Lighthouse yurts, Winchester Bay
For a more grounded and economical approach to the weekend, try renting a yurt at the Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. Yurts are durable circular structures made of wood and canvas that are designed to minimize
impact on the surroundings.
“It’s a cross between a tepee, a log cabin and a tent” said Jon Bilenki, who recently spent a weekend in one of the park’s deluxe yurts with his girlfriend and their 3-month-old daughter. “It’s luxury in a campground like I’ve never seen before.”
The yurt included an indoor bathroom with shower, a television with VCR, a refrigerator and a propane grill on the front porch.
“The best thing is you don’t have to pack up the tent in the morning,” said Lee Adams, a ranger at the park. Adams strongly suggests that campers looking to spend a night in one of the park’s six deluxe yurts make reservations in advance.
“They’ve become really popular around Valentine’s Day,” he said.
The deluxe yurts are available for $45 per night through April 30 and are exclusive to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. For an experience with fewer amenities, try renting a rustic yurt, available at 14 campgrounds on the Oregon Coast for $27 to $29 per night. To make a reservation, call (800) 452-5687.

Brian R. Burke is a freelance reporter for the Daily Emerald