A wonderful sanctuary, amazing craftsmanship of the cottages, great hosts. The Japanese soaking tub was a highlight. Plants and artwork and resident birds make this a unique retreat.

Our 7 day stay at the Volcano Rainforest Retreat was absolutely amazing. The accomodations were beautiful and comfortable. It was tucked back in a rainforest and very private. We actually never saw any of the other guests, even though the place was completely booked the entire time. Peter, Kathleen, and Ann were incredibly nice and made sure that we were finding all the places we wanted to go to. I cannot recommend them enough.

The VRR was memorable, but like other reviewers said, it's not for everyone.

The positives: Wonderful architecture of the cabin (we stayed in the Forest House), adorable little paths to the cabin, porch light left on each night for our return, room cleaned daily (dishes washed/put away, towels folded or replaced, breakfast items restocked), very friendly and helpful owners, beautiful scenery to wake up to each morning. GREAT location if you're spending time at Volcanoes National Park. Very close to little Volcano Village with a few restaurants. Close enough to Hilo for other food options/airport/things to do.

The negatives: It is loud inside the cabin when it rains. I felt like I was sleeping inside of a drum. The skylight above the bed was wonderful...except when the condensation accumulated and dripped on my face or arms. It was maybe 2 or 3 drips a night, but still a surprise when you're trying to sleep. It's damp inside the cabin...this can be expected since we were in a rainforest. Combined with the dampness, it's cold! I spent quite a bit of time practically hugging the gas fireplace. The neighborhood dogs barked quite a bit. Our cabin was pretty close to the owners' cabin so I didn't feel as secluded as I would've liked. I felt more like I was staying in their extra bedroom. Other cabins looked more secluded though.

Sometimes the most memorable places aren't the most luxurious. We appreciate the little quirks of the VRR.

My boyfriend and I stayed in the Sanctuary for two nights while visiting the Volcano National Park. The location was great to get back and forth between the handful of restaurants at the village and the park itself. The rooms are secluded and set back in the rainforest. The owners have put personal touches in every room and though Sanctuary was small--it was the perfect size for two of us for a couple nights. I loved the fact that we had to use the outdoor shower and soaking tub...I think my boyfriend would have rather had an indoor option but I thought it was part of the fun of staying in what felt like a jungle. There are only a couple other cottages so I believe even at its full capacity you would still feel like you have the place to yourself. I'd highly recommend going here....