AAA Four Diamond Hotel Surrounded by Deschutes National Forest

In Sunriver, Oregon, there’s a bucolic meadow near the Cascade Range's foothills that’s seen a lot of activity over the years. The meadow has served as a gathering place for Native Americans, a makeshift camp for John Fremont and other 19th-century trappers and explorers, and a training ground for the US Army during World War II. In 1965, a pair of Oregonians laid out plans to create a resort and a residential community that would incorporate the area's stunning natural aspects. Today, the AAA Four Diamond Sunriver Resort preserves its scenic environs while encouraging guests to explore the habitat through hiking, golfing, and other recreational pursuits.

In addition to accolades from Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure Golf, and FamilyFun magazines, Sunriver Resort was awarded the elite gold medal by Golf magazine, a recognition reserved for the top golf resorts in the country. Sunriver features 63 holes spread across four courses, each designed by acclaimed architects including Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Bob Cupp. Complimentary transportation throughout the sprawling campus lets you easily hop from one activity to the next. Those who prefer to exercise can navigate 35 miles of paved biking trails that crisscross the resort. Deer, eagles, geese, and picnicking coyotes are common sights along the Deschutes River's forested banks.

The resort's five restaurants range from fine dining at The Grille at Crosswater to the Owl's Nest pub, a welcoming spot to sample regional microbrews. At Meadows at The Lodge, French-trained chef Fabrice Beaudoin culls local and organic ingredients to craft entrees such as sizzling flat-iron steak and pan-roasted halibut. Lodge village guest rooms feature stone gas fireplaces and private decks.

Sunriver, Oregon: Skiing, Mountain Biking, and Hiking in the Cascades

The snow-capped peak of Mount Bachelor is visible in the distance across much of the Sunriver Resort property. For $10 round-trip, the resort offers transportation to and from the mountain's ski resort, located just 20 miles away. At Mt. Bachelor, skiers and snowboarders explore 71 runs spread out over more than 3,000 acres. With certain accompanying adult tickets, kids 12 or younger ski or snowboard free, as do their imaginary skiing friends.

Along the Deschutes River, a series of Class VI rapids known as Benham Falls has been designated impassable for watercraft. But the falls can still be observed from mountain and hiking trails along the riverbanks. Depending on current snow conditions, the trails typically stay open year-round.