Relax and Unwind Whether you find solace in nature or prefer a day at the spa, you’ll find many ways to relax and rejuvenate in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region. CONNECT WITH NATURE If exploring our natural world is your idea of a relaxing time, you’re in the right place. Eugene is full of beautiful spots that feel worlds away from the urban bustle, from the wooded trails of Spencer Butte Park to the flower-filled gardens of Hendricks Park. A short drive or bike ride from town will take you to the 9,000-acre (3642-ha) Fern Ridge Reservoir, a popular spot for kayaking, fishing and birding. If you come in the summer, don’t miss Koosah Falls near McKenzie River, east of town. While you may encounter other nature lovers, it’s worth it to see these picturesque cascades. West of Eugene, the Oregon Coast offers many breathtaking natural settings, whether it’s the crashing waves at the Devils Churn Day-Use Area or stunning sunsets at the Neptune Beach State Scenic Viewpoint. SOOTHE YOUR SENSES There are plenty of places for self-care in Eugene and beyond. Reinvigorate your skin with a salt scrub at Pearl Day Spa in the heart of town, or head over to the Whiteaker neighborhood for a massage at A Healing Space. If aromatherapy is more your thing, visit the Mountain Rose Aroma Bar in the 5th Street Public Market, where you’ll find a huge selection of fragrant essential oils and botanical sprays. To let nature be your spa, drive east to the Cascades for a soak in the geothermal waters at Terwilliger Hot Springs (a rustic spring sometimes known as Cougar Hot Springs) or Belknap Hot Springs, a resort-style complex with swimming pools filled with hot spring water. RELAX WITH A WARMING BEVERAGE If you’re looking to unwind with a steaming cup of coffee and good conversation, head to downtown Eugene’s cozy Perugino, where espresso drinks, beer and wine are complemented by Italian-inspired sandwiches and salads. A couple of blocks away, Portal Tea Company serves up teas from around the world along with flavorful, caffeinefree concoctions. Over in Veneta, A Link to the Past offers wood-fire-roasted espresso paired with soft-serve — and arcade games. For a particularly decadent affair, head to Lovejoy’s Restaurant & Tearoom in Florence for an Englishstyle afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream. Eugene, Cascades & Coast Visitor Center | 754 Olive St, Eugene 24 MELANIE GRIFFIN Belknap Hot Springs
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