We had a lovely peaceful stay here. We really enjoyed sitting on the porch in the mornings with our coffee watching the wild pigs and piglets. We wished we had booked it for longer. The cottage is decorated impeccably with everything you need.

We enjoyed this historic property, beautiful old cottage. Two days here exploring the botanical garden and Volcano NP

The stay here was amazing. We arrived quite late in the evening and you certainly need a flashlight of some sort to walk the path to the cottage. Beware there are frogs along the pathway. Lol. Thank God for the lights on our phones. Everything about the cottage was more than I could ask for. It was clean. The beds were comfortable and the fresh flowers were so fragrant and added a nice touch. Lisa was wonderful. She was welcoming and helpful with all our questions. She sent me links to all the places we wanted to visit and/or recommended by her. Lisa offered to show us the main house. That was something I was looking forward to based on some comments from other people who stayed there previously but we just ran out of time. My only regret is that we didn’t stay longer and we didn’t have time to appreciate everything that was available to us. I would have love to have cooked a meal there as the kitchen was fully stocked with cookware. Thank you Lisa for hosting a wonderful stay. We will be back in the near future.

It was a very charming cottage. It reminded me of old Hawaii. A little worn like grandma's, but welcoming. Beautiful grounds with all the vegatation. It was very peaceful even with the roosters and frogs at night. Our property manager was awesome. Quick to reply to text messages. She was full of hIstory about the main house and the property. It was an awesome experience!

Lisa was an amazing host with a willingness to share history and give local recommendations. If AC is an option, it would be a nice addition--mainly to drown out nature's nightly concert.

Our second stay in this cottage on the large grounds of an old estate house that has a beautifully renovated interior. (On request, we were given a tour of the main house on our previous visit.) We were graciously greeted when we arrived. We like the location, within easy driving distance to the Hilo coast as well as Volcanoes National Park. We enjoyed the evening/night rains, and the occasional gecko. The kitchen was well equipped. Brighter light in the main living area would be much appreciated. We will probably return!

This little cottage is a great peek into the past - its historic significance is interesting, and knowing how the owners have worked to save this property is incredible! It's simple, has all you need for a delightful stay, and is a quiet oasis (well, see note about coqui, but I love them)! It's close to town but still feels rural. The house is stocked with everything you need, including fans, a great selection of pans, towels, beach chairs, etc. They even thoughtfully provided earplugs, because as other reviews note, those little coqui have a voice 100x their size and the give a concert all night long! I love the sound, so it didn't bother me, but if you're a light sleeper or haven't experienced the frog chorus before, you may need them. There are lovely trees, many beautiful plantings, and you'll enjoy spotting a pig or two crossing the lawn. And we were lucky enough to see the hens and chicks scouting the lawn for tasty morsels, they were such cute fluffballs! The one thing I wish we'd thought to bring or have handy was a flashlight. At night, it's so wonderfully dark, but that's when the toads like to hang out on the brick walkway to the cottage! Being fearless (or slightly dumb, but I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt), they don't move out of your way, so we were careful to use our phone lights to find them and gently nudge them off the sidewalk so we didn't splat them. Overall, wonderful!

Charming two bedroom cottage with the feel of rural Hawaii.

My sister and I were looking for a place to just relax and savor ‘old’ Hawaii. We lived in Kona in the late 60’s and 70’s and my parents were there for nearly 30 years. This property was perfect for us and we hope to return for a longer stay. We did a bit of sight-seeing every other day, but wanted a place to mostly relax and read. We only took advantage of the pool one day, but enjoyed peacefully floating in the inner tubes, while exchanging old stories. Gisella was a lovely hostess. The ten acres of jungle comes complete with beautiful flowers, resident chickens and cats - and occasional wild pig sightings (though they apparently aren’t terribly welcome due to their destructive foraging habits). The bedrooms and living area all have high ceilings, with ceiling fans, which seem to deter insects and kept things cool. The bedrooms are large and inviting and it was a bonus for us each to have our own bathrooms. It rains a fair amount on the Hilo side, but the big covered porch area provides a great sheltered spot from which to enjoy the down pours. We both agreed we wished we could have stayed much longer.

Gisele was a wonderful host. The cottage was exactly what I imagined, the quintessential Hawaiian cottage in the jungle. Sounds of nature abound and nothing else. Good location to stay to begin each adventure. It rained but never all day, every day. I never missed the AC. Comfortable bed.

I kind of don’t want to tell everyone how great this place is as it will be too booked up for us to get back in. It isn’t for everyone though. If you are looking for pristine and perfect then go to a resort. We loved every single thing about this place. From the cats, chickens, frogs and pigs to the fresh flowers, pool and free standing house itself. Thanks Gisella for your hospitality!

We stayed at Gisella's beautiful estate for a month and unfortunately it rained extremely hard for a large part of our stay. Thankfully, staying here made the disappointing weather tolerable. The extensive covered lanai (veranda) where we were able to sit out and enjoy the beauty surrounding us even in the rains was wonderful, and the interior space was lovely and very roomy. Huge bedrooms, each with generous full bathrooms. The kitchen worked perfectly for us, and we prepared all our meals here. As nature and animal lovers we were thoroughly entertained and enchanted by the chickens, chicks and roosters, not to mention the geckos. Glimpses of the feral pigs were also amusing, although they have made a mess of the lawn in some areas. The photos of the outdoor areas were taken some time ago, so the externals are not as pristine, but honestly we really had no complaints. A previous guest complained about the rusty fridge, but that was just the outside of the door. The interior was fine and in perfect working order. And the cost of staying here was half what you would expect to pay at an estate like this. It was a dream property to stay at, and every time we came home from an outing I was thrilled to drive up into the property and enjoy the historical magic. The location is excellent. Gisella is a sweet woman and very easy to deal with, and we enjoyed talking with her about the history of the area. We would definitely stay here again, and would recommend it.

Absolutely one of a kind. Historic property that allows you to step back in time and relax! It’s over 100 years old and is maintained superbly. Secluded but close to town. If you stay here you have to use the pool. It’s immaculate. It’s ideal for a couple to enjoy but with the second bedroom and bath would work well for 2 couples. Loved it. Definitely plan to return. Host is amazing and very friendly but gives you privacy.

This is a wonderful location to explore the South and East of the Big Island. It was a half-hour up to Volcanoes in the morning (we were on East Coast time, so it was good to have a 24/7 location to visit at 6am). In the afternoon we went down to Hilo for the Museums / food / shopping / beach, or over to the Pahoa for the Farmer's Market. The kitchen was well-stocked, and the Foodland and natural food store in Keeau were very convenient for picking up groceries. The swimming pool made a lovely end to the day. There is a path out the backdoor into a small tropical forest with a flock of feral chickens. There is no air-conditioning, but the outside porch was comfortable in the afternoon, and with the fans on it was cool enough for a blanket to be welcome at night.

Well kept, 130 y.o. cottage with character. No AC but fans and plenty of rain kept it cool. Kitchen was great. Pool was very clean but didn't get chance to use it. A good base for exploring the Hilo side. Giselle was accommodating and presented us with fresh avocados! Many chickens, plus cats and wild pigs. Pigs have dug up the lawn in spots so careful when walking in the yard. Would stay again.

We wanted to stay somewhere that had more of a local feel. This place was a real find. Relaxed and off the beaten path but close to a town to shop. If you are looking for something different. Book it!!!

We've been coming to the Big Island for 30 years and this is the best rental we've ever had. It's truly home away from home, but with traditional Hawaiian hospitality ... and a pool. We've driven by this 1917 classic home umpteen times, but only recently has Gisella restored and opened the guest house for visitors. What a gift!

My husband and I really enjoyed our time at this special property. The grounds are lovely, you are in a tropical jungle. We loved the old style architecture of the cottage. It was very clean and well stocked. Gisella was a sweet host. Will return if we come to Hilo again.

Wonderful historic estate! Loved exploring the grounds and salt water pool. Very comfortable and well furnished. Easy drive to Hilo ND volcanos park. Lovely hostess was friendly and very attentive. Can't say enough positive details.

Wonderful historic estate! Loved exploring the grounds and salt water pool. Very comfortable and well furnished. Easy drive to Hilo ND volcanos park. Lovely hostess was friendly and very attentive. Can't say enough positive details.

Gisella’s place was one of the most authentic and unique experiences during out trip to Hawaii. You must be ready to share the house with some smaller animals here and there, but that’s the part of the experience. Gisella was very kind and told us about the history of the house. Definitely recommend!

We enjoyed the property and the cottage house. Loved the feel of the cottage and the vintage vibe. The property is gorgeous and the pool was spotless. We would definitely stay here again!

This historical cottage is surrounded by a large garden of flourishing tropical trees and colorful flowering bushes. The cottage though small, is comfortable and architecturally charming. It has a fully equipped kitchen with quality cookware and dishes. The living room is enhanced by a lanai across the the entire front of the cottage. The beds are comfy and the swimming pool is maintained. The owner, Gisella, lives in the restored Victorian Mansion on the property. She is friendly, helpful and unobtrusive, but available. Gisella is knowledgable about the island's past and generous. She shared fresh fruit with us from her trees and even gave us a tour of the property and garden, when asked. She also shared some painting supplies with me. The Hilo side of the big island is rainy and with that comes realistic preparation for evening mosquitos. The verdant greenery, beauty of the property and closeness to town, restaurants and parks more than make up for any inconvenience.

We enjoyed the property and the cottage house. Loved the feel of the cottage and the vintage vibe. The property is gorgeous and the pool was spotless. We would definitely stay here again!

This historical cottage is surrounded by a large garden of flourishing tropical trees and colorful flowering bushes. The cottage though small, is comfortable and architecturally charming. It has a fully equipped kitchen with quality cookware and dishes. The living room is enhanced by a lanai across the the entire front of the cottage. The beds are comfy and the swimming pool is maintained. The owner, Gisella, lives in the restored Victorian Mansion on the property. She is friendly, helpful and unobtrusive, but available. Gisella is knowledgable about the island's past and generous. She shared fresh fruit with us from her trees and even gave us a tour of the property and garden, when asked. She also shared some painting supplies with me. The Hilo side of the big island is rainy and with that comes realistic preparation for evening mosquitos. The verdant greenery, beauty of the property and closeness to town, restaurants and parks more than make up for any inconvenience.

We stayed in the guest house for 4 nights in April 2022. The bones of the property are beautiful - 10 acres in a lush tropical setting, high ceilings, lots of windows, and a covered porch. Gisella, the host, was very friendly, greeting us when we arrived, and checking in several times afterward. The kitchen is stocked with many items and there is a TV with Roku, which we appreciated given that it rained hard all day every day we were there. What I wasn't expecting based on prior reviews was that both the guest house and main property are rather run down. The refrigerator door in the guest house was covered in rust, the kitchen smelled of mold, and the bathrooms had mis-matched towels and leftover toiletries from prior guests. There was nothing provided to scrub dishes and only a few packets of detergent for the dishwasher. The bed coverings seemed narrow. Our experience may have been colored by the relentlessly soggy weather we had while there. I don't regret staying there, but feel it was a bit expensive for the quality provided.

We stayed in the guest house for 4 nights in April 2022. The bones of the property are beautiful - 10 acres in a lush tropical setting, high ceilings, lots of windows, and a covered porch. Gisella, the host, was very friendly, greeting us when we arrived, and checking in several times afterward. The kitchen is stocked with many items and there is a TV with Roku, which we appreciated given that it rained hard all day every day we were there. What I wasn't expecting based on prior reviews was that both the guest house and main property are rather run down. The refrigerator door in the guest house was covered in rust, the kitchen smelled of mold, and the bathrooms had mis-matched towels and leftover toiletries from prior guests. There was nothing provided to scrub dishes and only a few packets of detergent for the dishwasher. The bed coverings seemed narrow. Our experience may have been colored by the relentlessly soggy weather we had while there. I don't regret staying there, but feel it was a bit expensive for the quality provided.

This historic plantation cottage experience is really special (but not for those needing the latest upgrades). On 10 acres you'll be living with nature: mature huge trees, chickens, roosters, cats, tree frogs, tropical flowers. No Air conditioning, but it wasn't needed in March as the evenings and mornings are cool. The comfy bed and fresh air made for restful nights. We hope yo return to take advantage of the private salt water swimming pool. Gisella's cut flowers and fresh eggs were wonderful touches! Easy access to Hilo, the volcano, ziplining, the waterfalls and the scenic drive north of Hilo.

Gisella is an amazing person and wonderful host. Right away after our arrival in the evening, we were impressed by the stunning look of the torch ginger flowers and and the sweet scent from gardenia she selected from the garden. She was so kind and friendly, greeted us every morning before we left for a day excursion and again in the evening when we returned. She showed us all the unique plants in her garden (e.g. torch ginger, bell ginger, Chinese Chestnut, Chocolate, mountain apple etc.), and shared with us the history of the property, showed us the inside of her main house and her journey of remodeling it to what it looks today. She brought us mangosteens from a tall tree in her garden by surprise and they were delicious. We were also lucky enough to have afternoon tea with her on her birthday. Her hospitality made us feel at home during our stay and enriched our experience on the Big Island. The cottage we stayed next to her main house was really nicely remodeled and the rooms and bathrooms were large. It was very spacious for the four of us adults. The front porch of the cottage and the garden in the front and back were amazing as well. We can see the morning sun and red morning cloud through the palm trees when we woke up. Though we didn't have spare time to use the salt water pool, Gisella kept it super clean in case we would. The entire property is a hidden gem away from developments and busy streets. It was already joyful by just walking around in the garden. We even had luck with finding two eggs laid by the wild hens roaming around the property. My friends and I will definitely stay here again when we visit Big Island again in the future.

Gisella is an amazing person and wonderful host. Right away after our arrival in the evening, we were impressed by the stunning look of the torch ginger flowers and and the sweet scent from gardenia she selected from the garden. She was so kind and friendly, greeted us every morning before we left for a day excursion and again in the evening when we returned. She showed us all the unique plants in her garden (e.g. torch ginger, bell ginger, Chinese Chestnut, Chocolate, mountain apple etc.), and shared with us the history of the property, showed us the inside of her main house and her journey of remodeling it to what it looks today. She brought us mangosteens from a tall tree in her garden by surprise and they were delicious. We were also lucky enough to have afternoon tea with her on her birthday. Her hospitality made us feel at home during our stay and enriched our experience on the Big Island. The cottage we stayed next to her main house was really nicely remodeled and the rooms and bathrooms were large. It was very spacious for the four of us adults. The front porch of the cottage and the garden in the front and back were amazing as well. We can see the morning sun and red morning cloud through the palm trees when we woke up. Though we didn't have spare time to use the salt water pool, Gisella kept it super clean in case we would. The entire property is a hidden gem away from developments and busy streets. It was already joyful by just walking around in the garden. We even had luck with finding two eggs laid by the wild hens roaming around the property. My friends and I will definitely stay here again when we visit Big Island again in the future.

I stayed in Gisella's cottage with a friend and my sister. The two bedroom/two bathroom cottage was perfect for us. We loved the location, the space, and the quiet. Great for relaxing. The pool was nice. Gisella was a wonderful hostess. I would gladly stay here again.

This old plantation estate has been lovingly renovated, while retaining its original historic beauty, and we are most grateful that we found it. The cottage was so private! Giselle, the owner, was most helpful and available, and gave us a tour of the main house when we asked. The location is good for accessing both the Hilo side of the island, as well as Volcano National Park. We highly recommend it!