We just want to reiterate the positive reviews about Kate's Volcano Cottage. What makes this a "hidden gem" is it's secluded location in lush surroundings; the beautiful wood work of the cottage handcrafted by Kenneth (one of the proprietors); the cottage's closeness to the farmer's market, restaurants, and convenience store; and the home comfort amenities such as the comfortable bed, kitchen appliances and supplies, quality bath towels, and lots of books and maps about Volcano and the Big Island. Every detail to make our stay comfortable was provided. One of our most favorite memories was having breakfast on the outdoor patio, listening to the beautiful bird calls and smelling the fruit and ohia trees and flowers. Kathryn was extremely hospitable, from our first phone call throughout our entire stay. If you're planning to visit Volcano and looking for a place to stay that's peaceful, comfortable, and convenient to Volcano National Park, we would highly recommend Kate's Volcano Cottage. It's perfect for couples and small families. Our 3 year old son loved it! Mahalo to Kathryn and Kenneth, it was a pleasure meeting you and staying in your beautiful cottage!

We stayed for 4 nights from May 31st thru June 4th 2009. We got there at night and we had absolutely no problems geting to the cottage . Kahi Malu is an excellent cottage for family with children - 2 bedrooms. The cottage is situated right next to the Volcanoes national Park and we felt like we were living in the forest surrounded by native plants and birds. Kathryn Grout gave us excellen direction to her place from the airport as well as places to get grocery on the way there. She is very knowledgeable about the area and will give you suggestions of places to visit etc. She is wonderful and a very compassionate person. She will do her best to accomdate what you need so you can have a trip of a lifetime. She is willing to spend as much time as needed to answer questions about the volcanoes area. She will be there for you whenever you need her-- what more can a person ask for -- Her housekeeper, Jane, helped watched our kids of 5 and 3 while we were on a hiking trip one evening. Kathryn also helped keep an eye on the kids while we were away as well. Of course we paid Jane for watching our kids. Jane loves kids and of course they all love her back. My kids love Jane, Kathryn and Kenneth and still talk about the trip often. My daughter decided she will visit there again next summer.

Also, if you are into organic food, Kathryn knows of places to get organic food. Her cattage is stocked with organic granola (don;t forget to try the maple ginger granola) and basic stuf f needed for cooking (salt, pepper, oil). She even had regular and decaf coffee that my husband made a fresh pot of coffee before heading out to the park every morning.

Overall you will feel like visitng family members while you are there.

We stayed at this cottage at the recommendation of a friend and we were very pleased with accommodations and the locations.

The cottage is comfortable with a well-stocked kitchen, lovely bathroom, comfortable bed, and a nice sitting area. There were plenty of maps and guidebooks to peruse and Kathryn spent time going over them with us and talking about what we might be interested in doing. She is very knowledgeable about the area and the great hiking trails to go on.

The cottage is about 5 minutes from several great places to eat (if you don't feel like cooking in the very well-stocked kitchen), and about 10 minutes from the National Park.

We will definitely stay here again the next time we come--Mauna Loa is just waiting to be hiked!

This cottage really is just like the photo's on the website - perhaps a little better. It is country, cute, and clever. Plus you have excellent hosts who are caring and generous. We had a visit of three nights which was perfect for us. The cottage is very close to the entrance of Volcano National Park (seniors, remember your pass.) It is a little tricky to locate when you first arrive but Katherine will email a detailed map which you can print out and take with you. The guest book in the cottage attests that many visitors have enjoyed the hospitality here and so did we.

If there is one very small flaw it is that the baseboard heater is undersized and really has to work hard to keep the chill off during those Volcano nights plus the bath/shower has no heat at all. This is not a biggie and perhaps we were there when it was unusually chilly and damp.

Overall; lots of comfort and an excellent value. Go - enjoy!