Destination: Sunriver

The Season for Sunriver

SUMMERTIME ADVENTURES AWAIT AT THIS CENTRAL OREGON RESORT

Photos by Tyler Roemer

Just fifteen miles south of beautiful Bend lies a tight-knit resort community that has been a hit destination for people from around the world for the last fifty years. Sunriver Resort sits in the heart of Central Oregon, and offers visitors a chance to experience everything the region is known for, from world-class golf to farm-to-table dining and so much more. With so many options for recreation, dining and relaxation to choose from, it’s likely everyone in the family will find something they love to do at Sunriver.

The Cove is Sunriver Resort’s newest attraction, exclusive for resort guests. The 10,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor facility features two zero-entry pools, hot tubs, a waterslide and a nature trail to walk. The Cove opened Memorial Day weekend, with the cabanas offering full meal and drink service from The Spotted Frog Restaurant; a nod to the endangered species of amphibian that has a protected habitat in The Cove’s nature discovery area. Hit the greens on the family friendly 9-hole Caldera Links or get some practice shots in at the resort’s new 18-hole putting course. The putting course, named after Sunriver Resort’s founder John Gray, offers kids and adults alike a chance to hone their shots before taking on the three 18-hole championship golf courses on the resort. Avid golfers are encouraged to take advantage of the resort’s Unlimited Golf Stay & Play, with rates starting as low as $99 per person, per night.

Is any visit to Central Oregon truly complete without some time on the seat of a bike? At Sunriver Resort, you can rent out bikes to explore over forty miles of paved trails, connecting the community. This firstcome, first-served system provides riders with bikes, helmets, locks and a biking trail map. Alternatively, ditch the paved path to explore the region’s world class mountain biking; hundreds of miles of trails exist within a short drive or ride from the resort.

To explore with a different view, try renting out a kayak or paddleboard from the marina, and spend your day floating along the banks of the Deschutes River. Stop by the marina shop for all the supplies you could need.

Central Oregon has a long equestrian history, and that legacy lives on. Visit the Sunriver Stables and reserve your time to explore miles of trails from horseback, with a trained guide. Kids under 6 will love the pony rides, and anyone interested in learning about grooming and saddling can attend one of the stable’s horseback riding lessons. Year-round educational activities and interpretive exhibits that offer insight into native flora and fauna are offered at the Sunriver Nature Center. Stroll along the nature trail, explore the botanical garden and learn more about the natural world that surrounds you.

Explore the starry skies of Sunriver, which in 2020 was listed as the first International Dark Sky Place in the state of Oregon. Visit the Oregon Observatory to learn more about the skies above. Daytime viewings through filtered telescopes even offer safe views of the sun.

Finish off your day with a tranquil time at the Sage Springs Club & Spa. Designed to encapsulate the spirit of the Oregon high desert with its warm ambiance, signature services and local products, the spa offers a variety of experiences that are sure to help you achieve ultimate relaxation.

The options truly feel limitless here at Sunriver Resort. The historic resort features lodge style rooms, suites, vacation homes and condominiums to both rent or purchase. Cap off your vacation by uncorking a local bottle of wine by the fire and watching the sun set behind the snowcapped Cascade peaks, all from the comfort of your own private lodge.