Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i, The Lodge at Koele opens for business

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has opened the Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i, The Lodge at Koele marking the second Four Seasons resort to open on the private island of Lāna‘i in Hawaii.

Having just completed the first phase of its $50-million enhancement and rebranding, the Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i, The Lodge at Koele is the companion property of the Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i at Manele Bay. The entire project represents more than $100 million invested by Castle & Cooke and its chairman David Murdock, in the two exclusive properties as part of their rebranding by Four Seasons.

“We are very proud of the enhancement of The Lodge and the branding to Four Seasons,” said Mark Hellrung, general manager of Four Seasons Resorts Lāna‘i. “Discerning guests with an appreciation for the undiscovered now have a charming upcountry lodge to call home on the private island of Lāna‘i.”

Prior to the opening of The Lodge, all staff received extensive Four Seasons training, which included working at Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i at Manele Bay. The $50-million project also included the following enhancements:

Guest Rooms and Suites

All 102 guest rooms and suites have been completely renovated and feature décor infused with upcountry elegance. New residential-style furnishings, fabrics, carpets, and paint schemes are inspired by the natural surroundings. Averaging a spacious 605 square feet (including lanai), all guest rooms have been upgraded to include 40” flat screen LCD TVs, DVD/CD players, signature Four Seasons beds and linens, new furniture and fabrics, high speed Internet access, coffee makers and lanais with dining tables and outdoor furniture. Heating and air conditioning has been installed throughout the property.

Restaurants

Each of the three dining options at The Lodge has been enhanced with new menus, as well as new furniture and fabrics. The Dining Room offers an elegant and exclusive dining experience, with the feel of a grand estate’s living room. Capturing the upcountry essence of The Lodge, the Dining Room specializes in contemporary fine dining, using a combination of fresh local ingredients and classical European cooking techniques. An unparalleled, sophisticated culinary experience, the new menu offers dishes such as: Macadamia Crusted Lāna‘i Venison Loin, Grilled American Kobe Strip Loin, Butter-Poached Keahole Lobster and Maui Lavender Honey Roasted Duck Breast.

The Terrace and Tea Room Bar have both been enhanced with new menus, as well as new furniture and fabrics, while The Experience at Koele Clubhouse continues to offer its menu of sandwiches, salads and light fare. The Trophy Room now serves as a “games room” with billiards, darts, foosball and table games and offers light food and beverage options.

Public Areas

The upcountry charm of The Lodge remains throughout, though now with new furniture and fabrics in the Great Hall, as well as a new Concierge desk. The Pagoda, imported from China, was constructed by a team of Chinese architects and builders, and offers a stunning small event venue set on the Reflecting Pond. The Orchid House was fully renovated, and provides an inspiring backdrop for weddings. Additionally, new lounge chairs with hooded tops were installed at the pool.

Following the completion of enhancements and the rebranding of the property, construction will begin on a destination spa/salon, fitness center and wellness center, in a spectacular garden setting. The Spa and Wellness Center are anticipated to open in mid-2008. Additionally, a permanent Kids For All Seasons program and facility will open in 2008. The Lodge currently offers supervised children’s programs emphasizing fun, educational activities and contemporary and traditional Hawaiian arts, crafts and games in an active environment.

With two unique Four Seasons properties, guests are now able to combine a classic beach holiday with a peaceful upcountry Lodge vacation all in one.

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