Page 67 - Southern Oregon Magazine Spring 2019

Cowhorn Winery Tasting Room
Photo by Clair Thorington

about the
tasting
r oo m’ s
L i vi n g
Building Challenge certification, which means no volatile building materials,
local sourcing, net-0 energy.

Down the road, we pulled off to walk across McKee Bridge, a covered bridge
constructed in 1917, now pedestrian-only traffic.

Another five minutes takes you to Sanctuary One, a care farm providing a safe
home for rescued farm animals and house pets. The farm includes permacul-
ture-inspired gardens that provide rich vegetables and food. Pre-scheduled
tours and internships are available.

The terrain and feel is different in this part of The Applegate—more trees,
more rural. Many recreational opportunities await as you keep going. The area
boasts abundant wildflowers in spring, fishing, fire roads and country roads
there for the exploring. However, use wisdom and caution before venturing
off paved roads!

Applegate Lake is in the Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest, just north of
the California border, with trails, boat launching, day-use picnicking, swim-
ming, RV- and tent-camping sites and a general store. Squaw Lakes are nearby.

The Applegate Wine Trail will lure you on multiple weekends, with about fif-
teen wineries pouring excellent Southern Oregon wines. We had hoped to
visit Plaisance and Guzzo (on the Grants Pass end), but they were closed the Private Creekside Cottage
day we were there. I’ve visited a number of Applegate wineries on previous
occasions and have never been disappointed with the wine, the food (where In Jac k son ville
available), the warm welcomes.

When locals walked into an establishment, we noticed they were greeted by
name, asked about family, and often asked if they wanted “their usual.” True
country friendliness abounds in The Applegate.

I trust we’ve enticed you to check out The Applegate. Once you’ve visited,
you’ll want to return, as the wine trail or hiking or fishing alone warrant
more than 48 hours. No matter the season, it’s a lush, delightful corner of
Southern Oregon. As always, check websites for specific information—hours,
activities, additional places not mentioned here. Also, please consult a map,
as my directions are general and locations not necessarily in geographical
order. Most of all, have fun!

Book your Wine Country stay now!
205 W. D St. Jacksonville | www.standishcottage.com

spring 2019 | www.southernoregonmagazine.com 65