Surrounded by orchids and other tropical flowers, the cottage is located on two lovely landscaped acres - 30 minutes from Hilo or Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The property is solar powered, an off-grid sustainable system with 4G phone service and fiber optic wifi. The last two miles are on unpaved gravel road in variable condition depending upon how much rain we've had lately. Four wheel drive isn't necessary but an SUV or similar vehicle with higher clearance is recommended. If you want a peaceful and beautiful place to get away, this is for you. Often the only sounds you'll hear are the birds singing and the wind in the ironwood trees. At night, the coqui tree frogs will sing you to sleep or you may hear the patter of rain on the metal roof. The property is 30 minutes from either Hilo or Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The last two miles are on unpaved gravel road in variable condition depending upon how much rain we've had lately. Although you certainly don't need a four-wheel drive vehicle, I recommend that you rent a Jeep or SUV for extra clearance on the rocky road with some large puddles after rain. If you have a Jeep, you'll also be able to go to the top of Mauna Kea for the spectacular sunset or deep into historic Waipio Valley - places where you can only go with four-wheel drive. The cottage is approximately 300 feet from the owner's home, shielded by landscaping. Guests may wander the lush tropical gardens at their leisure. The 16' x 20' cottage has a full bed and there is a single bed in the screened sun room. There are windows everywhere and the kitchen is fully furnished with pots, pans, blender, plates, glasses, bowls, cutlery, coffee and French press, tea, condiments and spices, and gas range and refrigerator. Groceries are available at the general store ten minutes away or in Keaau or Hilo. There is a recycling bin for cans and bottles. In local style, Io Kea Cottage is a no shoes accommodation. Enjoy your stay but please leave the cottage as you found it and place your disposable rubbish in the can in bags that are provided. The home is solar powered, an off-grid sustainable system. You will have 4G phone service, wi-fi, and sufficient power to charge electronic items and for normal usage. However, please be thoughtful about your energy consumption. At the present time there is no TV. Most homes in the area use rainwater. The water is treated and filtered, but not for consumption. Drinking/cooking water is provided along with bottled water. An on-demand propane heater provides hot water. There are beach chairs and mats, beach towels, cooler, and flashlights for guest use. The owner lives on the property and is always available by cell phone 24 hours a day if needed. Your host has experience as a professional tour guide and is happy to provide recommendations and information about the Big Island. Please make arrangements with owner in advance for directions to the property. Io Kea Cottage is in the subdivision of Hawaiian Acres, approximately 5 miles off Hwy 11 near the village of Mountain View. It's in a quiet country neighborhood half way between Hilo and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and about 2 hours from Kona Airport. Public transportation is limited to the main highways, therefore you should plan to rent a vehicle. The last two miles are on unpaved gravel road in variable condition depending upon how much rain we've had lately. Although you certainly don't need a four-wheel drive vehicle, I recommend that you consider renting a Jeep or SUV for some extra clearance on the rocky road with some large puddles after rain. If you have a Jeep you will also be able to go to the top of Mauna Kea for the spectacular sunset or deep into historic Waipio Valley - places where you can only go with four-wheel drive. Directions will be provided. Bring a sweater or jacket for cool winter nights (60°) and for trips to see the volcanic eruption at night or to go to snow covered Mauna Kea. Price includes Hawaii General Excise Tax (4%) and Transient Accommodation Tax (9.25%).