When I think of Tillamook, I think of cheese. So, when looking for a place to stay in Tillamook, Nanine – also a cheese fan – and I decided to stay at a Harvest Host, Blue Heron French Cheese Co. Yes, they have cheese. And wine. And kitsch. And pretzels. Really, they have a full deli, along with lots of gifts items – and llamas, goats, donkeys, chickens, and peacocks! For those familiar with San Luis Obispo, this place is a cross between Avila Barn and Apple Farm.
Our drive up the coast today from Florence to Tillamook was a bit disappointing. The weather was gray and misty, not a big surprise to anyone familiar with Pacific Northwest weather, eh?! Regardless, the scenery was beautiful even if not conducive to a nice hike to break up the drive. Still, we arrived in time for lunch – and I finished The Peach Rebellion by Wendelin Van Draanen, an excellent young adult historical fiction with themes of classicism, feminism, and friendship.
Blue Heron French Cheese Co. participates in the Harvest Host program. This organization matches hosts with self-contained RV travelers. Hosts are wineries, distilleries, farms, etc., with the space for RVs. Guests don’t pay for the spot, although they are requested to spend a minimum of $20 at the establishment. I’ve stayed at several Harvest Hosts – and have loved most of them! My favorite was in Canada over Labor Day weekend, 2021, at the Crump Family Farm. They were new hosts and had three vehicles – totaling five guests – staying with them. While I was sitting in Addie finishing dinner, Mr. Crump knocked on my door – completely surprising me! He said that since this was the first time they had so many guests, they were inviting all of us to a campfire. For the next three hours, the seven of us sat around the fire sharing stories.
That was only one of many terrific Harvest Host experiences!
Below are a few photos from Blue Heron French Cheese Co., tonight’s host.
First, in Addie, enjoying the drive up the coast.
Is your Mama a llama?!
Nanine pumicing our sticky table with salt!
Beautiful gardens filled with chickens and peacocks!
Another view of the gardens. There are SEVERAL RVs parked in the outer edges of the parking lot – all staying for free under the Harvest Host program.
