Historic Balch Hotel

The Balch Hotel, listed on the National Historic Register, is close to Oregon’s most contrasting geography. In 45 minutes you can drive from lush greenery and forest to rolling wheat farmland. It’s a beautifully restored 100-year-old hotel (it still has century-old wiggly glass), devoid of “new” distractions (no TV or phone).

The hotel is a great base for exploring the scenic, historic and recreational interests nearby, with access to the Mt. Hood National Forest, Celilo Falls, Shearers Bridge, wildflower viewing, bird watching, cycling, hiking, sport fishing and hunting.  It gives “city dwellers” an opportunity to see the stars, unplug from daily life, stay in a vintage 1907 restored hotel, find out about history and enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside.

All three stories of the brick building have been completely repainted, and painted woodwork stripped in order to showcase the original fir beneath.  Authentic hotel fixtures, including the safe and front desk, mix with period antiques and replicas in each room.  Historic photos of the area, building and railroad are currently in preparation for display.

The hotel offers its walls to regional artists to hang their art and pair with a local winery to have an opening event. Since re-opening in 2007, the Hotel helps promote, and house, travelers for the annual Threshing Bee–a recreation of farming techniques and processes of yesteryear.  The Balch also partners with the local Living History Museum and Chamber to discover Dufur’s rich history.

• Located on private land
• Trained guides available
• Visitor center on site