Ashland is the first city of substantial size you'll encounter after you enter Oregon from Northern California via I-5. And you can easily enjoy breakfast at Country Hills in the morning, spend a full day exploring Ashland and be back at your site, room or cabin the same night.

Ashland has a world-renowned spa, at least one monastery, incredible charm, a University and is a place with much appeal for those who love art, architecture and upscale shopping. Check out the 'A Street Marketplace' for wonderful music, ethnic gift stores, get a facial or manicure and stop for an excellent fresh shot of fresh juice at the large Health Food co-op. Should you wish to spend the night or weekend in Ashland, the stylish Jesselhouse B&B is highly recommended...but do make your reservations well in advance! The Jesselhouse has an intriguing history and was the home of a woman with very special talents.

Ashland is extraordinarily famous for its Shakespeare Festival and simply awesome Theatre. The theaters are beautiful and the crowds can often be as interesting to observe as whatever play you're attending. There are also smaller but no less significant happenings, such as "The Bad Film Festival" and pre-film potluck dinner held (usually once per month) at the fabulous Ashland Moose Lodge and excellent live music to be found in clubs and bistros, mostly found along the side streets. DO wander off the beaten path, as there are many wonderful hidden gems to be discovered...some of the finest restaurants are tucked away in parts of town well known to the locals and rarely discovered by tourists.

A walk through the Plaza and into Lithia Park is a must-do. Parking in the Plaza during Spring and Summer months can be next to impossible, so drive along Lithia Park until you find a space with a generous hourly limit. Take a leisurely stroll along Ashland Creek or head up the steeper trails for a serious workout. More amazing still is that you can pick up the Pacific Crest Trail by going all the way to the top of Granite Street and walking past the reservoir. Should you get hungry, there are so many wonderful places to eat, sip a glass of wine, beer or a single malt. The Black Sheep, an English-style pub, serves excellent food as well as libations and the window tables offer spectacular views of the Plaza and downtown. It's a great place to observe a cross-section of the Ashland cultural scene and get a feel for the heart of the city. Ashland is a city that feeds the Vegan and the Carnivore, those on a budget and the folks for whom money flows like water. It's a city that's home to the street musician, bicyclists and backpackers, the student and the socialite, where casual and classy flow together seamlessly and there's almost always some special event in progress.

Downtown Ashland is a treasure trove for shoppers who appreciate finding the best and most beautiful of many one-of-a-kind items. One of the most excellent rock shops along the I-5 corridor can be found there...total heaven for crystal lovers and those who are thrilled at finding rare mineral specimens from around the globe.

In nearby historic Jacksonville, the ultra-elegant Britt Festival occurs. This is a wonderful venue where you can see world-class artists strut their stuff. You can book your tickets in advance and on-line. Again, booking ahead is recommended.