Welcome to the Magic: Volcano Rainforest Retreat
Words by Ashley Bowling Photos by Will Bowling
The Big Isle of Hawaii’s upper crescent is most notably known as home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Though watching Mauna Loa Volcano explode in her most glittering majesty should not be missed, there is a whole other side to the fertile soil she has birthed.
Just off Highway 11 lies a simple village hidden within a rainforest. First-time visitors are in for a sweet treat as they pull up to Volcano Rainforest Retreat. Each turn down the black rock pathway leads visitors on a mysterious walk as they brush canopies of giant ferns and pass mossy trunks of Ohia trees with the occasional pop of a fuchsia orchid sprouting off the trunks as if intentionally saying “welcome to the magic.”
This small corner of the Big Island is thick with fanning ferns and canopies of bright tropical plants nourished by abundant rainfall. Cool, misty breezes fill the mountain air of this village that sits at 3,800 feet above the sea, located just ten minutes from the national park entrance.
The surprisingly chilly air makes the four unique Japanese-style cottages placed on Volcano Rainforest Retreat’s sprawling ten acres that much cozier. Upon entering one of the carefully crafted one-bedroom
suites, guests are greeted by the warmth of a gas-burning stove. Opt to take the senses to another level by warming up in the outdoor soaking tub that accompanies most of the cabanas.
Though indoors, the interiors of each suite reflect an uninterrupted rainforest. Natural wood tones and custom millwork are abundant, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offer magnificent rainforest canopy views. Multiple skylights are strategically placed for stargazing from the comfort of soft beds. A full kitchen (or kitchenette depending on the suite) fills each space with the smell of Kona Coffee, local fruit, coconut granola, and specialty pastries. Each suite is also outfitted with a pair of robes and slippers for those times when clothes are overrated. Leather club chairs surround the gas-burning stove for late-night talks, while mossy pergolas stand just outside the glass doors beckoning guests to enjoy the morning mist and lulls of songbirds while planning the day ahead.
The onsite staff at Volcano Rainforest Retreat are there to ensure each guest has everything they need, including local tips and tricks. The staff divulges where to find native food truck faves and shares secrets on how to get reservations at the sparse, coveted spots in the tiny village. Insider knowledge is given about Volcano National Park and the best times to arrive for spectacular views of Mauna Loa in her morning glow.
Though there are ample bucket list sights to awaken the senses on the Big Island—such as breaching whales, spinner dolphins, and steamy volcanoes—travelers would be remiss if they missed out on this secluded retreat that is icing on the cake, hidden within a magical misty forest.
A Family Affair
Volcano Rainforest Retreat also has accommodations to fit the whole fam! While these cottages hold couples perfectly, there are times when traveling with friends is better than a sleepover. Enter their sister retreat, Volcano Rainforest Lodge. The large craftsman style home has all the details found at the retreat in a sprawling lodge with a wrap-around porch, full kitchen, steamy jacuzzi, and impeccable grounds.
