Lithia Springs Resort

HOTEL OVERVIEW

You know what surprised me most about Lithia Springs Resort? It actually lives up to its name – there’s something genuinely restorative about this place that goes way beyond the usual spa hotel marketing speak. I mean, you’re right there on West Jackson Road, which sounds busy but honestly feels tucked away once you’re on the property. The whole area has this quietly sophisticated vibe that Ashland does so well.

The resort sits in this sweet spot where you get the full Southern Oregon experience without feeling like you’re roughing it. I loved how they’ve managed to keep things upscale (definitely earned those 4 stars) while still feeling connected to the landscape around here. The mineral springs thing isn’t just a gimmick either – you can actually feel the difference in the water, and locals have been coming to these springs for decades before any resort existed. What really got me was the attention to details that frequent travelers notice but hotels often miss. Check-in was smooth, parking is actually plentiful (thank god, because downtown Ashland can be a nightmare during festival season), and the staff genuinely knows the area. When I asked about hiking spots, the front desk person didn’t just hand me a generic brochure – she told me which trails would be muddy after the recent rain and suggested a completely different route that ended up being perfect.

The rooms strike that balance between comfortable and interesting, though I’ll be honest, some of the older buildings show their age a bit. Nothing major, just little things like bathroom fixtures that could use updating. But honestly? The views make up for it, especially if you snag one of the rooms facing the valley. And here’s something I appreciated – it stays surprisingly quiet even when they’re busy, probably because the property is spread out enough that you’re not hearing every door slam and conversation in the hallway. The location really shines when you want to explore beyond the resort. You’re close enough to walk into Ashland proper (though it’s a bit of a hike if you’re not feeling energetic), and you’re perfectly positioned for day trips to Crater Lake or the Rogue River. During Shakespeare Festival season – which runs longer than most people realize, basically February through October – you’ll want to book dinner reservations in town way ahead, but the resort restaurant is solid if you just want to stay put. That 9.1 rating feels about right to me. It’s not perfect, but it nails the things that matter most: genuine relaxation, beautiful setting, and that sense that you’re experiencing something authentically Oregon rather than just another generic resort experience.