Our Missoula Montana bed and breakfast overlooks the Bitterroot River and the Bitterroot Valley. Driving south through the Bitterroot Valley is a pleasant journey; travelers pass through the charming towns of Lolo, Florence, Stevensville, Victor, Corvalis, and finally Hamilton. Each town is worth a visit. Stevensville was Montana’s first permanent settlement, when St. Mary’s Mission was created here in 1841.
At this time of year, there are lots of fun events in the Bitterroot Valley. Weekly farmers markets serve up fresh local produce and products from the valley. Stevensville just wrapped up Summerfest, when hot air balloon hover above the Bitterroot Valley and folks eat barbecue while listening to music.
About 40 miles down the valley from our bed and breakfast Missoula sits the town of Hamilton. A good time to travel there is Saturday and Sunday, July 24 and 25, 2010, for the Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival at The Thomas Ranch. Many great bands are scheduled to perform, including the Gravely Mountain Boys and J.D. Webb and the Downstate Ramblers. The festival site is about 10 miles south of town; call 406-821-3777.
The annual Bitterroot Microbrew Fest also takes place in Hamilton on July 24, along with Daly Days, when merchants offer huge sales. The following weekend (July 31) Hamilton goes back in time with the Renaissance Faire. Costumed performers, music, games and good food help visitors imagine what life was like during the Renaissance. Towards the end of August, Montana Shakespeare in the park presents Julius Caesar in Hamilton.
Travel the Bitterroot Valley to attend a specific event, or simply follow the river on a beautiful day and open yourself to the unexpected. We’d be happy to chat with you about some of our favorite spots in the Valley while you fill yourself with a tasty breakfast.