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Monday, September 24, 2007

LANAI


Without a single traffic light, Lanai is a true island getaway for luxury, romance, and privacy away from crowds.
Play golf at Lanai's two prestigious courses.
See the rock formations at Keahiakawelo, "The Garden of the Gods."
Off-road amongst the pine trees along Munro Trail.

On this low-key island, you’ll find two golf courses of remarkable prestige. First, the Experience at Koele is an 18-hole championship course designed by legends Greg Norman and Ted Robinson. Here each and every hole is graced with awe-inspiring vistas, from mountain ravines to Pacific views of neighboring Maui and Molokai across the channel. This dramatic course is indeed a one-of-a-kind experience.

Along the southern coast, Jack Nicklaus created one of his most famous masterpieces, The Challenge at Manele golf course. Set on the cliffs above Hulopoe Bay, this target-style course roams across several hundred acres of natural lava outcroppings, using plunging ravines, native kiawe, and towering trees as natural hazards. Both courses consistently rank among the best in the world by leading publications and travel guides.

KEAHIAKAWELO, THE GARDEN OF THE GODS, LANAI

Keahiakawelo, also known as Garden of the Gods, is an otherworldly rock garden at the end of Polihua road. Its eerie Mars-like topography is populated with stacks of mysterious rock towers of all sizes.

According to Hawaiian lore, this barren landscape is the result of a contest between two kahuna (priests) of Lanai and Molokai. Each was challenged to keep a fire burning on their respective island longer than the other, and the winner's island would be rewarded with a great abundance. The Lanai kahuna, Kewelo, used every piece of vegetation in Keahikawelo to keep his fire burning, which is why this area is so barren today.

The rock towers, spires, and formations formed by centuries of erosion are at their most enchanting at dusk. The setting sun casts a warm orange glow on the rock sculptures illuminating them in brilliant reds and purples. It's no wonder why this is one of Lanai's most popular visitor attractions.
QUICK FACTS
Name:

Keahiakawelo, the Garden of the Gods
What is it:

Otherworldly rock garden
What to do:

Explore, take unique rock garden photos
What to bring:

4-wheel drive vehicle, camera
Directions:

Roughly forty minutes from Lanai City. Roads are unmarked so get clear directions from your hotel before driving. A sign of Polihua Road points to the "Garden of the Gods." A 4-wheel drive vehicle is required.
Best time to go:

Sunset
Admission:
Free

MUNRO TRAIL, LANAI

Not far from Lanai City, is the rustic Munro Trail. Named for George Munro, the naturalist from New Zealand who arrived in 1890, this 7-mile, one-lane dirt road offers sweeping vistas amongst the majestic Cook pine trees introduced by Munro himself.

The trail offers spectacular views and the 1,600-foot climb in elevation cools the air as you climb. Along the way, you'll find the stunning canyon views of Maunalei gulch as well as neighboring Maui. The trail also takes you to the top of Mount Lanaihale, Lanai's highest peak at 3,368 feet.

The Munro Trail can only be driven in a rented 4-wheel drive vehicle. You'll want to drive carefully because conditions can be tricky in some spots. Bring a full tank of gas, water, food, and a light jacket and check ahead for dry weather conditions. The trek takes about three hours, so buckle up and enjoy ride.
QUICK FACTS
Name:

Munro Trail
What is it:

Historic hiking, driving, and biking trail with scenic views.
What to do:

Off-road, hike, bike, take scenic photos from Mt. Lanaihale, Lanai's highest point
What to bring:

4-wheel drive vehicle, full-tank of gas, camera
Directions:

Roughly ten minutes from Lanai City. Take Keomuku Highway (HI-430) north and turn right on Cemetery Road. Follow signs to Munro Trail. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is required. Check road conditions before driving.
Admission:

Free






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