Ahhh, Maui. White sand caressed by turqoise sea; swaying palm trees; the gentle sound of Hawaiian music; a tropical drink enjoyed on the beach..

  But these popular images are only a part of Maui's story. Sitting high to the west, far above such festivities, is a peaceful, green place few tourists or even local residents get to visit. Above the cane fields but below the crater of Haleakala volcano lies "Upcountry Maui".

Looking down from up here, the island and the sea are even more spectacular. Upcountry's rain, light, cool winds and rich soil create the perfect home for one of the world's most exotic flowers: the legendary Protea.