Four Seasons Resort Lanai The Lodge at Koele

Description:

• The luxury resort chain Four Seasons has come to Lanai. After some $50 million in renovations, the Four Seasons took over the management of the former Lodge at Koele. This inn, which resembles a grand English country estate, was built in 1991 and needed the makeover -- the new look is spectacular. All 102 guest rooms were totally redone, a game room was added, the grounds have been spruced up, and a pagoda imported from China has been constructed on the sprawling English gardens' grounds (not my taste, but I'm sure it will be the backdrop for hundreds of wedding photos).

  Inside, heavy timbers, beamed ceilings, and the two huge stone fireplaces of the Great Hall complete the look. Overstuffed furniture sits invitingly around the fireplaces, richly patterned rugs adorn the floor, and museum-quality art hangs on the walls. The guest rooms continue the English theme with four-poster beds, sitting areas (complete with window seats), formal writing desks, and bathrooms with oversize tubs. All rooms now have new carpeting and furniture, glass bath partitions, signature Four Seasons beds, 42-inch LCD flatscreen televisions, and high-speed Internet access.

  The Four Seasons also retrained the staff to their level of excellent service. Don't expect the "sophisticated" service you'd get in most Four Seasons around the world -- most of the staff have lived on Lanai for generations. Instead, you'll find a charming display of aloha spirit and a strong desire to make sure your vacation is perfect.

  Before you reach for the phone, understand that this hotel is not located at the beach, but rather in the cool mist of the mountains, on 21 acres at 1,700 feet above sea level, 8 miles inland from any beach. In the winter, temperatures can drop into the 50s (don't worry, the rooms have heat as well as air-conditioning). Most guests here are looking for relaxation: sitting on the rattan chairs on the porch, reading, watching the turkeys mosey across the manicured lawns, strolling through the Japanese hillside garden, or watching the sun sink into the Pacific.

  There are plenty of activities here and at the sister resort down the hill, Manele, so you'll get the best of both hotels. Other pluses include complimentary shuttle to the golf courses, beach, and Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay; complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby; formal afternoon tea; and twice-daily maid service. Guests can take advantage of the croquet lawns, horseback riding, hiking trails, and garden walks.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010