Frommer's Review
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. All 102 guest rooms were totally renovated and now have new carpeting, glass bath partitions, signature Four Seasons beds, 42-inch LCD flatscreen televisions, new furniture, new fabrics, and high-speed Internet. This small inn, which resembles a grand English country estate, was built in 1991 and needed the renovation -- the new look is spectacular. A game room was added and renovations were made to the Great Hall, including new furniture. 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).
The Four Seasons also retrained the staff to their level of excellent service. Don't expect the "sophisticated" service you find in most Four Seasons around the world -- most of the staff have lived on Lanai for generations. Instead you'll find a wonderfully charming display of aloha spirit and a desire to make sure your vacation is perfect.
Before you reach for the phone, realize that this hotel is not at the beach, but located 8 miles inland, in the cool mist of the mountains, on 21 acres at 1,700 feet above sea level. In the winter, temperatures can drop into the 50s (teens Celsius) -- don't worry, the rooms have heat as well as air-conditioning. Most guests here are looking for relaxation: sitting on the rattan lawn 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.
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 single-sink bathrooms with oversize tubs. 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 Lana'i at Manele Bay; complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby; formal afternoon tea; and twice-daily maid service. Additional activities include croquet lawns, horse riding, hiking trails, and garden walks.
Plans call for the addition of a free-standing Wellness Center and Spa to open in 2008.
Facilities: 3 restaurants (including the Main Dining Room and The Terrace); bar (w/live music); outdoor pool; golf at Greg Norman-designed Experience at Koele; tennis courts; fitness room; Jacuzzi; complimentary snorkeling equipment rentals at Four Seasons Resort Lana'i at Manele Bay; bike rentals; children's program; game room; concierge; activities desk; retail store; room service; massage; babysitting; laundry service; dry cleaning
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.
