Balch Hotel

This historic hotel is a real gem. I came across it accidentally and it was one of the most delightful and unexpected travel discoveries I’ve ever experienced. Its historic ambiance is great, the room was very nice, the food was excellent, and the hosts were a delight. I can’t say enough good about it and I can’t wait to return. This is likely to become a regular getaway for me.

The hotel was a pleasure. Nice room clean with a comfortable bed. We sat under the trees and enjoyed some wine and went into dinner thoroughly enjoyed the entire meal. The presentation was spot on and the flavors perfect. Would definitely go back.

This is our favorite fall getaway - we love the hotel, rooms, grounds, views, bistro, and staff. We feel welcome in the town and enjoy taking different routes through the Columbia Gorge to get to and from this magical part of the Pacific Northwest.

We chose the third floor Mountain King Suite with the view of Mt. Hood. It was nice to see a beautiful sunset as well as the sun shining on the mountain the next morning. All the staff we encountered were so nice. Everything is very clean and comfortable. Our dinner was excellent, and our server was the very friendly. We enjoyed a glass of wine while viewing the gardens. It was a very relaxing overnight stay.

The Balch Hotel is an ideal get away for those wanting a peaceful and truly enjoyable experience. You will love the Historical Charm throughout the hotel. The rooms are very clean with fresh sheets and towels. The small sink and mirror in most rooms is a plus. The dining experience for dinner offers healthy entrees and good wine. The staff members are such a delight and make everyone feel very welcome. A complimentary Continental breakfast is also served including yummy homemade granola with yogurt and fresh fruit and muffins. The Balch Hotel is nestled in the small town of Dufur. A newly remodeled Dufur Market Place just opened and enhances the overall experience of staying at the Balch Hotel. The coffee is just wonderful. Dufur is surrounded by many wheat fields and has a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. Come away from the hustle and bustle of life and experience simple living!!

Last Spring, we discovered the Balch Hotel via facebook. Since we enjoy staying at historic hotels, we planned a visit to the Balch. We then returned for another visit in June. Recently, we celebrated a birthday at the Balch just after Labor Day. Yes, it's noisy and the AC isn't very effective and the bathroom may be down the hall, but we also it charming and attractive. We enjoy sitting in the parlor in the mornings or evenings. We gravitate to the patio whenever the weather permits: watching the sun rise wrapped in a vintage quilt, or watching the sun set over Mt. Hood at the end of day. We have eaten several meals at the Bistro, all delicious and beautifully prepared. We often find ourselves in the afternoon lounging on the grounds, reading books or engaging in conversation. And we find the tiny community of Dufur quite attractive and have become acquainted with some of the locals, especially at The Forge, the local coffee shop. Since the Balch is only a couple hours from home, we plan to use it as our regular get-away.

This is a great historic hotel. Rooms are well appointed, beds are comfortable, and the staff is very friendly and accommodating. The Bistro restaurant has excellent food with a good variety of drink choices. The hotel is located in a small rural community just a few miles off Interstate 84.

Everything was top notch. The building and gardens are beautiful, it was quiet, comfortable, and I experienced great service. This was my 2nd stay, and I am planning again for next year. My only complaint was not meeting a friendly cat in the garden this year LOL

This is a wonderful old hotel with so much attention to detail at every inch. The garden was a lovely place to watch the sun set. This remote town, albeit highway across the front door, is a quiet, lovely place! The decor is restful and beautiful with several spaces for relaxing with a calming, period feel. The porches in front are a lovely place to welcome the day. The floors, the woodwork are beautiful. The stairwells, at least three, are magnificent! There are modern AC units in the rooms that provide "white noise" and comfort on hot days. There is a sink in room as well. The "shared bathroom" was never an issue and right across from my bedroom for mid-night journeys. And MAKE SURE YOU ENJOY THE DINING!! My steak was perfect! The breakfast was also lovely!! This is a little hidden gem in Dufur andn a lovely drive as well!