For Pat and Kathy Butler, a trip to Ashland isn’t just a getaway—it’s a tradition nearly four decades in the making.
Their story begins in 1988, when the couple—college sweethearts—made a spontaneous stop in Ashland on their way to Canada. Something about the charm of the town stuck with them. They returned the following year and discovered Country Willows Inn, then hosted by original innkeepers Bill and Barbara. That visit sparked a tradition that has continued ever since.
A Love of Theatre That Keeps Them Coming Back
For Pat and Kathy, Ashland is synonymous with the magic of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Over the years, they’ve attended countless performances, building a personal highlight reel of unforgettable shows. Among their favorites: King Henry (with standout performances by Dan Donohue), Animal Crackers, Rough Crossing and The Diary of Anne Frank. Their love of theatre is what first drew them in—but it’s everything else that keeps them returning year after year (sometimes even twice a year).
The Comfort of a Favorite Place
The Sunrise Suite
At Country Willows, the Butlers have found more than just a place to stay—they’ve found a second home. Their favorite suite, Sunrise, has become deeply nostalgic over the years. “It’s where the sun rises,” they say simply—but it’s also where countless memories have been made.
From the moment they arrive, they feel it: immediate decompression. The peaceful setting, the lush gardens, and the warm hospitality from the staff have remained a constant throughout the decades.
They fondly remember earlier days when breakfast was served in the sunroom and on the front porch deck, while also appreciating the bright, welcoming dining room guests enjoy today.
Exploring Ashland—On Two Wheels and Beyond
Bear Creek Greenway
Pat and Kathy are avid cyclists, and every visit includes time on their bikes. While they enjoy the ease of the Bear Creek Greenway, their favorite rides take them off the beaten path—pedaling scenic backroads toward Jacksonville. Away from traffic and crowds, these quiet routes offer the kind of peaceful beauty that mirrors their experience at Country Willows. When they’re not biking, you’ll find them walking nearby trails or strolling into downtown Ashland, always open to discovering something new.
Simple Joys, Meaningful Rituals
Over time, the Butlers have created their own rhythms and traditions during their stays. Kathy, a devoted yoga practitioner, has found inspiration all across the property—from the Sunrise deck to the garden lawn, beside the gazebo near the pool, and even the farmhouse balcony with Grizzly Peak rising in the background. Meanwhile, Pat enjoys his own stretching routine alongside her practice—a quiet, shared ritual that reflects the ease and comfort of their time here.
They also make it a point to enjoy Ashland’s culinary scene, with favorites like Cocorico and Bar Juliette always on the list—while leaving room to try new spots each visit.
And if the timing is right, they never miss a chance to catch a show at the Britt Music & Arts Festival in nearby Jacksonville.
A Tradition That Continues
Now, nearly 40 years after that first spontaneous stop, Pat and Kathy’s trips to Ashland have become something rare and special—a blend of comfort, familiarity, and ongoing discovery.
They describe their visits simply: “Comfortable, familiar, and routine—but always open to a new adventure.” They’ve returned once again—this time as the first guests of the 2026 season.
Their story is a reminder of what makes Country Willows so meaningful. It’s not just a place you visit. It’s a place you return to—year after year, memory after memory.
