"Upcountry Maui" refers to the towns, ranches, farmlands, vineyards, and even parks and visitor attractions like the Haleakala National Park, that are found on the upper slopes of Mount Haleakala on the island of Maui. The lush green slopes of Mount Haleakala contain an eclectic mix of properties, but “country” is the best term to describe the rolling hills of the key cities in the area, Kula and Ulupalakua.
The majority of the Upcountry land is owned by large ranches - the Haleakala and Ulupalakua Ranches, in particular. But because of the spectacular views and ideal weather, which is approximately 10 degrees cooler than at sea level, gentlemen estates dot the country side.
Most of the land Upcountry is zoned agricultural, and regulations require a two acre minimum for land parcels. There are small towns such as Pukalani and Makawao, where lot sizes range from 7500 square feet and up. A "paniolo" (cowboy) influence is still prevalent in Makawao. In fact, each 4th of July, the town hosts a three-day rodeo.
It is the juxtaposition of Upcountry Maui’s agricultural landscape to thriving artists’ communities that makes the area most interesting. Additionally, several unique floral gardens and some of the best views of the South Pacific are found in the Upcountry. Upcountry Maui provides that slow island life style with spectacular pastoral settings.
Known as “the city of natural splendor”, Kula is also famous for its food, agriculture and recreational activities. Those with an adventurous instinct can enjoy hiking on the slopes of Mount Haleakala, mountain biking through redwood trails found in the region or ziplining adventures in the city.
Those seeking more subtle adventure can enjoy garden tours offered by Ali'i Kula Lavender or simply step out and indulge in the indescribable beauty of the hills and valleys that are covered with Cedar and Redwood forests. Some of the most popular ecological attractions found in the Upcountry are the Enchanting Floral Gardens or Kula Botanical Gardens.
The Kula Botanical Gardens cover 8 acres alive with colorful and unique plants, featuring native Hawaiian plants, unusual rock formations, a covered bridge, several waterfalls, a koi pond, an aviary, and a carved tiki exhibit.
Ulupalakua was once called Makee’s plantation, and was one of the largest sugar estates on the island until it was wiped out by a sugar blight. By 1883, it was devoted exclusively to raising cattle. By 1930’s the ranch had diversified agriculturally, and a school, post office, stores, two churches and a courthouse sprang up, thereby essentially establishing Ulupalakua as a town. By 1972, California’s Napa Valley teamed up with the Ulupalakua Ranch owner to develop the only vineyards and winery on Maui.
A smattering of small rural communities among acres of ranch land comprises much of the Ulupalakua real estate. The area is steeped in history dating back hundreds of years, and was once home to the well-known "Ulupalakua Thing", the longest-running farm and food festival in Hawaii.
Another good thing about the Upcountry is that two new highway completions make the area readily accessible to grocery stores, restaurants and beaches.
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