For the second year in a row, I have spent a few days in the last week of January at the Oregon coast accompanying my husband at one of his annual conferences. Normally, one could easily predict that the weather would be cold, wet and windy. Indeed, last year that was exactly what we got, and I spent the entire time holed up in our room getting work done, without any desire to venture outdoors. I can’t tell you how pleased I’ve been this year, then, with the amazing weather we’ve enjoyed the last few days. We’re staying at Salishan Spa and Golf Resort, which opened in 1965 as Oregon’s first destination resort. Well-known throughout the Northwest and on the Gold List of Conde Nast Traveler‘s “World’s Best Places to Stay,” it underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2005. Located on the central coast just off of Highway 101, it is nestled in amongst remnants of old-growth forest overlooking Siletz Bay. The guestrooms and suites are in buildings scattered across the hillside and linked to the lodge by paths and covered walkways. Each room looks out over the fairways, forest or bay and has its own private balcony furnished with a pair of rocking chairs. Inside, a gas fireplace set in a slate wall keeps the damp chill of a winter day or summer evening well at bay. The sitting area is furnished with a very comfy overstuffed armchair and sofa, so it makes for a cozy retreat if one is forced to stay inside. On this visit, I’ve enjoyed the fireplace in the evenings, but each of the past two days have been cool but sunny with wind almost non-existent. I took advantage of such unusually mild weather to get out and explore my surroundings and check out some of the amenities the resort offers. The main lodge and public buildings house spacious conference facilities, three restaurants, a gift shop, lounge and award-winning wine cellar. In addition, there are three indoor tennis courts, a sports court, 24-hour fitness center and indoor pool, men’s and women’s saunas and a children’s activity center. I’ve promised myself a return visit to explore the Spa, located just down the hill from the lodge on the edge of the bay. Spread out around the resort buildings is the par-71, 18-hole golf course, redesigned in 2004 by Oregon’s own Peter Jacobsen. The front nine wind through the forest on the east side of Highway 101, sheltered from the coastal winds, and the back nine on the west side of the highway are configured for Scottish links-style play. That’s what I’ve been told, anyway, because I’ve never learned the game. But Salishan offers an alternative for such as me. I spent a very pleasant afternoon in the sunshine on the resort’s 18-hole putting course. While I was entertained, it also reinforced for me the wisdom of my decision to not attempt the “real” game. Salishan also offers the opportunity to enjoy the undeveloped outdoors. More on that tomorrow. Patty Vanikiotis, proofreader