Fodor's Expert Review Belvedere

This popular lookout, a few miles inland from Paopao, is the island's highest point accessible by car. From the summit (720 feet [219 meters]) there are commanding views of Opunohu and Cook's bays, Mt. Rotui, surrounding peaks, and the valleys below. The Belvedere road can be accessed at turnoffs from the Coastal Road at the base of both bays. The road from Opunohu Bay winds through the valley of the same name past grazing horses and lush grassland. The Paopao road (from Cook's Bay) turns off the Coastal Road near the small Paopao village and passes pineapple plantations of the Paopao Valley. The roads meet not far from a collection of ancient marae, and then the journey winds steeply to the top. Use your horn at the corners and bends! There's nothing at the top but the view, save a concrete platform to stand on plus a few chickens and a rooster or two wandering around.