There’s so much to do in the charming town of Ashland, Oregon. Home to the Shakespeare Festival, Ashland boasts many boutique wineries and first-class restaurants. Whether you are passing through Ashland or it is your vacation destination, you’ll want to make a reservation at Winchester Inn. The family owned bed and breakfast has been around for many years, but current innkeepers Laurie and Michael Gibbs have been welcoming guests since 1983.
The property includes a two-course breakfast with your stay, five star amenities and is home to the award-winning Alchemy Restaurant. Its location is ideal; two blocks from Oregon Shakespeare Festival and steps from downtown Ashland with its many restaurants, wine tasting rooms and shops. For those who shy away from bed and breakfasts, Winchester Inn operates like an upscale hotel with personalized concierge service from a professional and welcoming staff.
Since my 2008 visit, the Inn has grown, with future plans for expansion. Five separate buildings make up 20 unique rooms at Winchester Inn. My first visit I stayed in the Courtyard Suite and this stay I was in the main building in the Sylvan Room. The Sylvan Room offers a queen bed and fold out twin in the upstairs of Winchester Inn. I like the sink perched in the antique dresser and the bay window seat looking out to the almond tree in the front yard.
Make sure to have drinks and dinner at least one night in Alchemy Restaurant & Bar. The gourmet meals are sure to please the foodies in the group; save room for the desserts or lovely cheese plate. In the morning piping hot coffee and fresh juice is served in the bar before the restaurant opens for breakfast. The breakfast is a two course meal with fresh fruit, eggs and meat. You’ll have several options to order from off the menu.
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Enjoy a stroll in the gardens or sit on the patio with a good book and a fresh baked muffin in hand. I never seem to allow enough time to fully appreciate Ashland. On my next visit I’ll take in a concert like Sheryl Strayed did in the movie Wild or maybe I’ll listen to Shakespeare in the park. If you are traveling with pets, or looking for a swimming pool, this is not the place for you, children, however, are welcome. Some rooms do offer fireplaces or hot tubs, check the website for more details.
Rates range from $125. – $275. depending on the room type and time of year. Winchester Inn offers special packages and events for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day, all rooms include complimentary WiFi. If you are looking for romance, this is the place to bring that special someone. The Inn is a member of Unique Inns, a collection of independently owned and operated boutique hotels and Bed & Breakfasts.
Review and photos by travel writer Nancy D. Brown. Her stay was hosted by Winchester Inn during her visit to Southern Oregon, but her thoughts and opinions are her own.
