Imagine this: you’re riding your bike through a rolling meadow, the Cascade mountain range in the background, and the only sound is from the rolling Deschutes River. Up ahead, your children pull carrots from their pockets and present them to a gathering of friendly horses in an adjacent pasture.
Sound like the setting of a movie? It’s actually a scene from my family’s idyllic weekend in Sunriver. Because of the accessible outdoor activities and pristine setting, Sunriver remains a favorite getaway spot for my family of five.
Finding the Perfect Place to Stay
While we usually stay at the Sunriver Resort, this time we booked a house through Discover Sunriver Vacation Rentals. There are many lodging options to choose from, but since our three kids wanted to bring friends and spread out, we picked a four-bedroom house complete with a large kitchen, hot tub and killer views.
Renting a house is great for cooking in. I stopped at The Village at Sunriver and bought our groceries at Sunriver Country Store. I love this IGA grocery store for its fresh produce and healthy choices (a big variety of gluten-free goods too).
Outdoor Adventures and Good Food in Sunriver
The house was stocked with a handful of bikes for all ages and sizes. Upon arrival, we quickly unloaded and claimed bikes and helmets before heading out to the local paths. My family and I rode through the village, out behind the lodge, across golf course bridges, and past the airport, marina and stables all within under an hour.
The paths are flat and well paved, making it an easy trek for all abilities. There are also lots of bike rentals and shops nearby, making it easy for anyone to hit the trails. After lunch and a hot tub soak, the kids stretched out in the living room to play board games while my husband and I were free to lounge and unwind from a busy week.
Feeling too lazy to cook dinner for the group that night, I ordered delivery from Blondie’s Pizza. The pizza and salads were tasty. I also appreciated that there wasn’t a delivery charge for their speedy service.
The next morning, my husband made a swift trip into the village and brought back some coffee. It might have been cheating to go out for lattes, but we couldn’t resist.
Our second day was just as pleasurable with more bike rides and time in the village for window-shopping and a casual dinner at the Sunriver Brewing Company. The kids loved their natural, Angus beef burgers. My husband and I ordered refreshing summer salads loaded with berries, followed by tacos with blackened cod. The selection of local draft beers was impressive, a draw for any beer aficionado. After dinner, we strolled into Goodies for ice cream cones and a to-go bag of yummy caramel corn.
Our last day in Sunriver ended with a scenic trail ride courtesy of Sunriver Stables. My two girls and I opted for the thirty-minute “Bald Eagle Loop,” which took us along the Deschutes River and out across the Sunriver Meadows. The staff was very welcoming as they helped us choose equally affable horses. My only complaint was that photos aren’t allowed on the ride. The views were so stunning that I would have liked to capture them with my camera. We will definitely plan for a longer ride on our next visit.
I can’t wait to go back.
Other stories
More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
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Your Guide to Biking in Sunriver, Oregon
No tour of the best biking in Central Oregon is complete without a stop in Sunriver, Oregon. A city named after the abundance of sunshine and water, Sunriver is a nationally-renowned destination for outdoor adventure. The town is nestled right where the Deschutes National Forest meets the base of the Cascade Mountains, just a few miles south of beautifully stark high desert landscapes. From mountain biking trails near volcanic monuments to paved paths meandering near the river, Sunriver is perfect to explore from the seat of a bike.
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Horseback Riding in Sunriver, Oregon
For many, exploring new trails and breathing in the fresh mountain air is best done on horseback. And what better place to get in the saddle than in beautiful Sunriver, Oregon. Here, trail rides meander along the Deschutes River, offering mountain views and showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Enjoy corral rides, pony rides, lessons and guided trail rides on horses selected specifically for the comfort and ability of the rider.
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Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Sunriver
With an endless amount of activities available it’s no surprise that Sunriver has been a go-to destination for families for decades. From golf courses to stunning bike trails to water slides, every member of the family is bound to be entertained.