The Element Bend was among the nicest hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying. And for only being open five weeks at the time of my stay, I think it’s only a matter of time before they become one of the most sold-out hotels in Bend.

The moment the sliding doors opened into the expansive and welcoming lobby, a friendly receptionist gave me a genuinely warm welcome.

Located about 45 minutes northeast of Medford equidistant southeast to Crater Lake, the Joseph H. Stewart Recreation area is ideal for anyone looking for a quiet place to picnic or ride their boats.

The lake spills into the Rogue River, which trails across the entire state of Oregon until it births into the ocean at Wedderburn.