Kilauea Lodge
Location
Volcano, Hawaii
Kilauea Lodge is located in the mountain village of Volcano a mile from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The lodge, built as a YMCA camp in 1938 to introduce children to Kilauea's volcanic wonders, is now a popular country inn and award-winning restaurant. The lodge's current owners purchased the camp and its 10-acre grounds in 1986, refurbishing it to accommodate guests in 12 varied rooms, some with fireplaces or balconies, each decorated with vintage character including classic Hawaiian quilts, stained glass and flower motifs. A hot tub in the garden invites a soak, while a network of paths winds through acres of native and tropical plants.
A highlight at Kilauea Lodge is the Fireplace of Friendship, established in 1938 when 400 people from around the Territory of Hawaii gathered here at Camp Hale O Aloha for the dedication of this unique symbol of international amity. The fireplace, a focal point in the lodge dining room, is inlaid with stones and coins from around the world, inspired by the dream of the camp's first director, Harold Lucas, who wanted to create a "hearth of world brotherhood." The dining experience at Kilauea Lodge is also a highlight: German-born owner-chef Albert Jeyte marries continental cuisine with local flavors in unique combinations, garnering much popular acclaim.