At Coos Bay you enter myrtlewood country. The myrtle tree grows only along a short section of coast in southern Oregon and northern California and is prized by woodworkers for its fine grain and durability. A very hard wood, it lends itself to all manner of platters, bowls, goblets, sculpture, and whatever. All along the south coast, you'll find myrtlewood factories and shops where you can see how the raw wood is turned into finished pieces. At the south end of the town of Coos Bay, watch for The Oregon Connection, 1125 S. First St. (tel. 800/255-5318 or 541/267-7804; www.oregonconnection.com), which is just off U.S. 101. This is one of the bigger myrtlewood factories. Myrtlewood Factory Showroom, 68794 Hauser Depot Rd. at U.S. 101 (tel. 541/756-2220; www.realoregongift.com), 5 miles north of North Bend, is another large factory and showroom. Six miles south of Bandon on U.S. 101, watch for Zumwalt's Myrtlewood Factory, 47422 U.S. 101 (tel. 541/347-3654; www.zumwaltsmyrtlewood.com), which has a good selection and prices.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
