Oregon is an adventurer's paradise. The terrain varies from a long Pacific coastline to rugged mountains, dotted with spectacular waterfalls. For refined enjoyment, wander the vineyards and historic mansions of the Willamette Valley

Follow the trail of lighthouses down the 400 miles of Pacific coastline. You'll find the city of Astoria by the seashore. Astoria is a quaint city with a smattering of Victorian houses and an extensive waterfront. Locally, you will find all kinds of attractions including the Uppertown Fire Fighters Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. The city is a great base for whale watching and sea fishing trips. If you happen to be in town in mid June, don't be surprised to find the streets overrun by marauding Norsemen! The Scandinavian Midsummer Festival celebrates Norse culture with fire, song and rowdy sporting events.

Crater Lake National Park is a natural wonder. Thousands of years ago a violent volcanic eruption caused a mountain to collapse creating a vast crater. Over the centuries the crater filled with water forming a sparkling lake. Mountains still surround the lake and the forested slopes provide perfect sanctuary for hiking, mountain biking and the appreciation of nature. In the winter, the snowy slopes are open for skiing and snowshoeing.

Oregon is known for waterfalls. Two of the best are Multnomah Falls, a 620 feet two tiered drop and Silver Falls State Park where you can walk behind the cascading sheet of water of the parks ten waterfalls.

Take a wine tasting tour through the vineyards of the Willamette Valley. Eugene is an attractive little town set in the heart of the wine country. Local flavours prevail throughout the summer at the town's Saturday Market. Just out of town the picturesque countryside is crossed by walking and cycling trails and peaceful lakes provide just the spot for a tranquil day of fishing.

Self-catering holiday cottages and apartments to rent in Oregon: