Maybe it’s just because I’m a mountain girl at heart, but the region on Maui known as “upcountry” is my favorite, even thought it’s commonly “dissed” because it’s less like the tropics than the coastlines. And it is less “tropical,” in that the weather is cooler, dryer, and obviously less beachy, since it’s in the middle of the island. (It’s not near the water, granted, but I’ve never known anyone to confuse it with Wyoming, either.)

Where and what is upcountry?
Upcountry is a collection of little rural towns found a few thousand feet above sea level, up the slope of the Haleakala crater. It’s “the other side of Maui,” where you’ll find Makawao, Olinda, Sprecklesville, Keokea, Haiku, Pa’ia, and more. And it’s also where you’ll find flower and produce farms, dairies, rainforest, artisans’ studios, a rodeo, a cattle ranch, and jewelry handmade right where you stand. For those of you who like plain old shopping, upcountry is the place to do that, too.

Upcountry is also where some of Hawaii’s finest schools are located, such as Seabury Hall, a private school known for its impressive college placement record.

It’s on the way to (and from) Hana, and the crater, so if you find yourself with a few extra minutes or hours or days to explore the otherworldly nature of the other side of Maui, stop along highways 365, 390, 377, or 37 for a delicious cup of coffee, or eat at what is arguably some of the best food on the whole island. (Mama’s Fish House and Hali’imaile General Store, I’m looking at you, babe.) Stay for a spa treatment, or, shoot, book a room at a B&B and get the full tour.

Photo credit: Jody Reale

Post from: The Hawaii Traveler