Kathryn and this lovely cabin set the bar high for all AirBnb listings. She and her husband have been doing this since 1995 when he built the cabin and cool walkway (if my memory is correct!) So she's taken all guest input to heart and you could say they have thought of literally everything!
First, the space is beyond gorgeous. Pictures do not do it justice. Hand built, with such attention to detail like sunken wooden nails--this man is an artist--he also created the "spirit houses" on the property. Very cool. The surrounding old growth rainforest is gorgeous! Loads of tree ferns, ohi'a trees, and so much more. We didn't see the pigs, but we know they were there, digging around after dark. The temperature was a lot cooler than in Hilo, being at a higher elevation. We may have seen a couple of mosquitoes, but it was not a big issue. Perhaps because they've been in a drought.
Aside from the delicious chocolate macs she left, she also provides coffee, granola, everything you need for cooking. Nice shower, fantastic washer and dryer. She entrusts you with loads of towels and extra linens and toilet paper. Comfortable bed that even has a heater. Ceiling fan, air purifier. Microwave. Wi-fi. Umbrellas.
Kathryn provided so many recommendations and guidebooks, from maps to bird ID to anything and everything about the Big Island and this area. She told us the best current viewing area of the volcano, and encouraged us to go in the middle of the night, which we did two nights in a row! Well worth it! She even provided headlamps for these night excursions, also needed for viewing lava tubes. House slippers.
Kathryn is so friendly and knowledgable and grateful and just plain wonderful. I know she has a lot of repeat visitors, and I understand why. I'd come back next time I'm on the big island, no question! Kathryn defines hospitality! Do not miss out on this place. It's magic.