Run Oregon loves running – that’s no surprise. But we also love the Pacific Northwest and all that it has to offer. Running is a part of us, but it does not fully define us. In our “Make a Day of It” feature, we aim to showcase some great local non-running events and highlight where to run and how to make the most of your experience!
The most recent location for our runcation series is a new stay at the Magnolia Hotel in Jacksonville.
First the Running:
As someone who primarily runs in the Willamette Valley, it speaks volumes when I say that some of my fondest running memories are from Southern Oregon. From Grants Pass to Medford, Ashland, and even Klamath Falls, I’ve had the privilege of exploring many incredible routes and trails in this beautiful region.
Just last year, I checked off a long-time bucket list location: the Britt Woods. This time it was Forest Park (the Southern Oregon version).
Forest Park is an easy 7-minute drive from the Magnolia Hotel and features a TON of amazing trails (over 30 miles) to explore. I wish we were there for more than just a single night, as I felt like I only scratched the surface on the trails out there. I tackled a 6.5 route (link: Strava) that took me on some vert along the Grotto / Jackson Creek Nature Loop, as well as some time on the Old Miner’s Trail.
I strongly recommend grabbing a map at the trailheads and having AllTrails on hand so you know which trail you want to stay on.
The Spot:
The Magnolia Hotel sits in the heart of the small and glorious Jacksonville, Oregon. This charming town is one of the most adorable locations in the entire state, featuring amazing local shops and wineries, while still being just minutes away from the “big city” of Medford. It may feel like you’re a world away, and that’s because places like the Magnolia Hotel exist.
The building itself was constructed in 1928 and started out as a sanatorium and health spa before being converted to a bed & breakfast in 2007. This 12-room location exudes small-town charm and offers wonderful amenities, making it a perfect basecamp for your running adventures.
We strongly recommend using this hotel as a basecamp to convene a group of mile-seeking buds. Whether it’s a running club or just a group of friends, gather them up, rent a few rooms (or the whole dang location), and enjoy a weekend focused on running and wellness.
There are plenty of reasons why the Magnolia Hotel is perfect for gathering a group of friends. The hotel offers ample common space and is designed with runners in mind. Their continental breakfast goes well beyond just a muffin or two, offering homemade granola and other options to properly fuel athletes for the miles ahead.
Our Room:
The rooms at the Magnolia Hotel are casual and simplistic, yet clean and fresh, blending historical charm with top-notch modern quality. Natural sunlight streams in, creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. Everything just looks crisp and clean.
This makes sense, as the owners lived in the UK with their kids in 2020 and were inspired by the cozy pubs and historic inns they encountered. These places featured inglenook fireplaces, tweedy furnishings, an abundance of books, and interesting found objects. They have brought that same inviting, lived-in comfort to all aspects of the hotel.
We stayed in one of the Queen Rooms (202) which was small but featured everything the short list of the essentials. There was no TV – which is honestly great, as I’d much rather be out and exploring anyways. The bed was comfy and the Dyson AC unit kept us super comfortable on the top floor of an old building in the middle of summer – and that’s saying something!The room itself was small, but we were OK with it as we literally were only in there to sleep and shower before hitting up concerts, wineries, and trails. There are a variety of other size rooms (King, Twins, Suites and combos) if you need more space.
Each room has its own attached bathroom, a much-appreciated feature in a boutique hotel. The hotel accommodates only adults and children aged 12 and older (and some rooms allow a furry friend), which ensures perhaps a more peaceful stay (I say this as someone with three children).
Refueling:
While wine might not be the epitome of wellness, aside from the antioxidants, it’s a fantastic option when you’re in one of the best wine-growing regions in the country. There are several wineries downtown and in the surrounding area (we love DANCIN and the Somar Tasting Room is just a stone’s throw away). There are even more great options available if you venture further into the Applegate Valley. If you don’t feel like driving after an early morning run, the Magnolia Hotel can arrange curated wine tastings right at their location. Talk about service!
The hotel also collaborates with the nearby Reformed Pilates Studio, where runners can easily access classes or set up private sessions for their group. Additionally, Elevate – a Juice & Food Bar + Yoga Studio – is close by, providing another level of refueling goodness to the mix.
The Britt Trails area offers more than just trails, though that’s why we come. It also hosts the Britt Music Festival, which features amazing acts throughout the summer. We caught a show with Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw while we were there! Gavin was actually staying IN the Magnolia Hotel during our stay and it was super cool to chat with such a welcoming and friendly celebrity. The festival is basically within walking distance from the Magnolia Hotel, but there is a free shuttle just around the corner.
Overall:
The Magnolia Hotel is a perfect spot to stay and run in Southern Oregon, blending cozy charm with modern comforts. It’s an inviting place with tailored amenities for runners, close to scenic trails and local attractions, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed and active getaway.
Magnolia Hotel (Jacksonville, OR)
Details:
Address:
- 245 N. 5th St Jacksonville, OR 97530
Phone:
Magnolia Hotel
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Many thanks to the Magnolia Hotel for allowing us to check out their property! Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
