In the cool upcountry (2,500 feet to be exact), at the base of Mauna Kea, Waimea Country Lodge welcomes you with warm island hospitality. Big Island accommodations like these are few and far between, so prepare yourself for a truly unique experience. Awake to complimentary locally-grown coffee, morning mists, rolling green grasslands, and extraordinary views of Mauna Kea. It’s a location unlike that of any other Big Island accommodations, and it’s no wonder.

This quaint, farmhouse-style lodge seems to blend right in with the landscape. These accomodations are spacious retreats, featuring kitchenettes with a microwave, daily maid service, high-speed Internet, and a color TV you may never turn on. From the lodge there are endless opportunities to soak up the area’s rich history that has been so carefully preserved throughout the years. Walk to Waimea Town (also known as Kamuela). There you’ll find Parker Ranch, one of the biggest working ranches in the United States, along with western-wear stores, cultural and sporting events, and even rodeos.

You’ll also have easy access to Mauna Kea summit and its observatories, a premier spot on the planet for stargazing. On Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest mountain, you’ll see horse and cattle ranches that cover miles of open grassland. This is indeed home of the Hawaiian cowboy or “paniolo.” Head east to the Waipio Valley lookout. Head west and explore the rugged coastline and beautiful beaches of the Kohala Coast, like Hapuna Beach Park just a 15-minute drive away. And when you get hungry, Waimea has more than 30 restaurants, from casual to fine dining. You’ll undoubtedly want to frequent the Paniolo Country Inn Restaurant and Lounge right next door to the lodge. Also nearby are art and antique galleries, shopping, and golf courses. Big Island activities means anything from canoe paddling to horseback riding. For entertainment, see live theatre at Kahilu Theatre, or catch some slack-key guitar. And just think, when the day is done, you get to return to your beautiful Big Island accommodations, that feel more like a private home in the country.