Get a taste of the Pacific Northwest with a trip across Oregon and Washington

Willamette Valley, Oregon

In association with: Brand USA

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, the US states of Oregon and Washington promise historic attractions and natural wonders in equal measure

With Brand USA’s Volcanic Peaks to Sparkling Shores itinerary, your clients can explore the Pacific Northwest, ticking off towering summits, glistening waters and spectacular caves, as well as remarkable food and culture.

Portland, Oregon’s largest city, provides the perfect starting point, and has a renowned culinary scene that harnesses locally sourced produce. Peruse the food carts and don’t forget to try out the city’s craft breweries.

On the border, Astoria, Oregon’s oldest city, is steeped in history. At the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, follow in the footsteps of explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who journeyed through the park’s 12 sites spread along the Columbia River and Pacific Coast on their early-1800s expedition.

Head north into Washington’s Olympic National Park and marvel at the glaciated peaks of the mountains and the glimmering shores of Lake Crescent and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great spot for skiing, climbing and rainforest hikes.

Drive along the northwest coastline to Seattle, where visitors should head to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic city views. Recommend they stop at Pike Place Market – a lively spot, full of fresh produce, before taking a harbour cruise to admire the bay and mountains.

Less than two hours from Seattle is Mount Rainier National Park, where the active volcano that gives the park its name towers 4,400 metres above sea level. Further volcanic sites await back in Oregon, including Mount St Helens and Mount Hood. The latter is found along the Pacific Crest Scenic Trail and is home to 12 glaciers and six ski resorts that are surrounded by crystal-clear lakes.

Pike Place Market, Seattle

Continue south to Crater Lake National Park, the deepest of its kind in the US, before driving back to the coast. At Coos Bay, Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is home to the Marble Halls of Oregon, a labyrinth of caves where visitors can learn about their geology and may be able to spot fossils and bats.

Lastly, venture along the Oregon Coastal Highway, scattered with quaint towns on the way to the Willamette Valley. There are more than 300 wineries to choose from to get a taste of the region’s world-famous pinot noir, before finishing up in Portland.

Download the full itinerary here.

Book it

Gold Medal offers a trip for the Volcanic Peaks to Sparkling Shores itinerary for £2,499 per person, based on two adults sharing. The price includes travel from Heathrow on September 16, nine nights of accommodation and intermediate four-door fully inclusive car hire for the duration.

To book this itinerary for your clients, call Gold Medal on 0800 014 7777, or visit goldmedal.co.uk

Win a £100 John Lewis voucher

To be in with a chance of winning a £100 John Lewis voucher, answer a question about this itinerary. For more information, how to enter and terms and conditions, visit: travelweekly.co.uk/brandusa

Become a US expert

Expand your knowledge by completing some badges on Brand USA’s USA Discovery Program. This online agent training programme has more than 60 modules, and can help you sell trips to the US more effectively to your customers. Whether it’s must-visit places, unique experiences, historical facts or dining tips, this resource offers comprehensive overviews of states, cities, and experiences across the country. Complete a badge today at: usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk

PICTURES: Brand USA