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Offbeat Maui
Lesser-known, "upcountry" attractions are worth the drive
By Kara Williams
Last Modified: Sep 15, 2008
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Sure, Maui is ringed by some amazing white-sand beaches. But once
you've had your fill of hot sun and sand, consider taking a break from
lounging oceanside to visit Maui's cool, inland upcountry. Drive
yourself, or take an organized tour, of three unexpected island
attractions: a winery, a lavender farm and a goat dairy.
| Tedeschi Vineyards
If you're a fan of sweet wines, don't miss sampling the sparkling
pineapple variety at Tedeschi Vineyards. About an hour's drive inland
from the resort areas of Wailea and Ka'anapli, this winery (also known
as Maui's Winery at Ulupalakua Ranch), offers free tastings daily from
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the tasting room, be sure to check out the amazing
18-foot-long bar made from one single mango tree trunk. Want to learn
more about the process of making wine on a tropical island? Attend one
of the three daily tours at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. or 3 p.m.
If
you're driving yourself (escorted day trips to Maui's upcountry are
also available; check with your tour director or hotel concierge), take
time to enjoy the views as you drive 2,000 feet up Maui's extinct
volcano, Haleakala. The vineyard is located on the crater's verdant
slopes, and the vistas along the way are delightful. Pack a picnic
lunch to enjoy on the winery's sprawling grounds, under looming
centuries-old trees.
In addition to the fruity wines, which
include pineapple and passion fruit, as well as raspberry, the
vineyards produce drier reds and whites. | Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm
Master gardener/botanist/agriculturalist Ali'i Chang has created an oasis on the slopes of Haleakala Crater, at 4,000 feet in elevation. Wonderfully scented lavender, as well as olive trees, hydrangea and protea, bloom and thrive on nearly 11 acres, where guests can enjoy walking tours of the amazing gardens.
Choose from several daily walking tours, or a golf-cart tour led by the master himself, Ali'i Chang! Combine your introduction to the wonderful gardens with a bite to eat and drink: lavender tea or lavender lemonade with lavender scones, of course! A full lunch -- also comprised of lavender-themed foods -- is another option.
The gift shop is stocked with an amazing array of products, such as lavender-scented candles, lotions, bath gel and lip balm. Plus, there are gift boxes and jars of lavender honey, lavender coffee and even lavender brownies!
| Surfing Goat Dairy
How's this for a career change? Germans Thomas and Eva Kafsack, formerly a software developer and high school teacher, moved to Hawaii five years ago to open up a goat dairy. Their successful dairy produces more than 25 different kinds of goat cheese, delighting chevre connoisseurs on the island and around the world.
Visitors can tour the farm to meet the working goats on "casual tours" that require no advance reservation -- just show up! Otherwise, you can arrive at the dairy in time for a 3:15 p.m. "evening chores and milking" hands-on experience offered several afternoons a week from August to October.
In the Cheese & Specialty Shop, sample the different kinds of cheese -- such as Alaskan Delight, with smoked salmon; Purple Rain with Maui lavender (see above), and Mango Supreme. Jars of the irreverently named cheese make great souvenirs or gifts to bring back home.
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About the Author
| Kara Williams is the editor of AffordableTours.com's Travel Guide. Email her at kara@affordabletours.com. Learn more about Maui by visiting www.gohawaii.com/maui. |
| NOTICE: This article is general in nature and for informational purposes only. To the best of our knowledge, the information was accurate at the time it was written; however, we suggest you confirm specific details and prices with the appropriate vendors before you set out on your trip since services, policies, and prices can change with time. AffordableTours.com assumes no obligation with regards to the information or to update or inform the reader of any changes or other factors that could affect the information contained herein. |
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