Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby

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Cabin

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

Fireplace
Kitchen
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Outdoor space
Air conditioning

Explore the area

Janesville, IA

Wartburg College
‪15 min drive‬
University of Northern Iowa
‪21 min drive‬
UNI-Dome
‪22 min drive‬
Waterloo, IA (ALO-Waterloo Regional)
‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Honeybee Cottage is a private cabin on a hobby farm which is located next to a beautiful pond and beach area as well as 140 acres of beautifully groomed trails. It is creatively decorated and full of amenities, including a coffee/tea bar. Make use of the games/books/DVDs that are provided. Relax on the porch, sunbathe on the beach, take a hike or mountain bike, skip rocks in the creek, start a bonfire (S'mores provided) and listen to the many sounds of nature while enjoying the evening sky. Or perhaps you want to experience milking a cow?! Our hobby farm, Star's Hollow, is located 15 min North of historic downtown Cedar Falls and 10 min South of Waverly, IA. Lots to see and choose to simply drink some sweet tea on a swing under a big shade tree. With chickens, ducks, pigs, bees and a milk cow (and her calves;), along with deer, wild turkey, owls and bald eagles... you will experience nature at its fullness. This is truly the land of milk and honey!

Liability Waiver:
You understand that swimming, hiking and the use of kayaks/canoes is at your own risk and that special risks may be involved with swimming, hiking and using the kayaks/canoes. You accept full responsibility for any bodily injury arising from swimming, hiking and use of the kayaks/canoes and hold owner harmless. You understand there are potential dangers that swimming, hiking and the use of kayaks/canoes may present to children who are not carefully supervised, as well as the danger to any person swimming, hiking or using the kayaks/canoes if a person has health risks, or if a person swims, hikes or uses the kayaks while intoxicated or using any kind of drugs or medication, or while pregnant. You agree to be fully and solely responsible for any accidents you may incur. You understand the risks discussed above and agree that you will assume all responsibility for yourself and for the consequences of those in your party. You agree to waive any claim whatsoever against owner for accidents or claims arising from swimming, hiking or using the kayaks. All Guests in my party acknowledge and agree that they have read and understand this waiver and they acknowledge that confirming below constitutes a binding and enforceable contract between Guests and Host.

Property manager

Penny Franke

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

Barbecue grill

Fireplace

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Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

- Please, no other guests other than those staying the night are allowed to come recreate, as a courtesy to other guests and for liability purposes.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Janesville

Located in Janesville, this cabin is in a rural area and near theme parks. Bremer County Historical Society Museum and Neumann Auditorium are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Cedar Falls Community Main Street and Falls Aquatic Center. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Walston-Hoover Stadium or UNI-Dome. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Janesville, IA

What's nearby

Wartburg College - 15 min drive - 12.1 km
Waverly Municipal Golf Course - 17 min drive - 15.5 km
University of Northern Iowa - 21 min drive - 22.9 km
UNI-Dome - 22 min drive - 23.9 km
Lost Island Waterpark - 31 min drive - 36.1 km

Getting around

Waterloo, IA (ALO-Waterloo Regional) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive
‪Casey's General Store - ‬14 min drive
‪Casey's General Store - ‬11 min drive
‪Casey's General Store - ‬16 min drive
‪Vfw Waverly - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby located?

Situated in a rural location, this cabin is within 1 mile (2 km) of Cedar River and Ingawanis Woodland. Barrick Road City Park and Janesville City Library are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Leanne R.

14 April 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little Piece of Heaven

This was a lovely find! A unique chance to stay in a cozy cottage nestled against a little pond with several farm animals and hiking trails at your fingertips. Penny and Dan are wonderful hosts, friendly, communicative and informative of the surrounding area.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shelley P.

1 December 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay

Wonderful cottage and lovely hosts. Couldn’t ask for anything better. We will be back!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tamara M.

29 April 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Hidden Gem

The perfect get away. Our stay was everything we imagined it would be and more. Most important to us was a peaceful nights rest and our bed was so comfortable. It was actually a "Tiny Home", experience and had everything we needed. We had fresh eggs from the farm in our refrigerator. The spirit of the home and of the surrounding nature is the perfect place to refuel the spirit.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Denae W.

5 October 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Vacation

We absolutely loved our stay at Star's Hollow! Dan and Penny were so accommodating and friendly. We loved all of the farm animals and especially Bestie. Catching fish and floating around in the pond in the kayak were just a few of our favorite moments. Along with playing cards on the porch while listening to the rain. Everything was very relaxing and just what we were hoping for. We will definitely be returning! :)

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Betsy W.

8 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tranquility at its cleanest

To say charming is an understatement! Charming, clean, quiet, friendly, lots to do and take in if you choose. I’ll be back!

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

28 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

R&R in shabby chic tranquility

All the reviews are 100% spot on! My time there was at the height of excessive heat wave in August ‘23 (awfully hot & humid!) but, this property provides so many opportunities to make the best of the time there. Early morning Hikes (so much wildlife and the stillness…seriously therapeutic), …our days were cooling off in the pond then to a wonderful beach sitting area in some great shade (from huge trees) provided hours of relief from heat - evening time: (best evening breezes!!! ) we enjoyed getting the kayaks out (after sun went down) lying back and having best seat for star gazing. NO mosquitos!!! Farm fresh eggs (bonus!!) the owners have created and continue to improve their hobby farm - you can truly see their love and passion for Stars Hollow Inn - I look forward to visiting again when it’s much cooler -fall time is sure to be amazing

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kayla H.

13 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful peaceful stay

Property is beautiful and has lots to do. We had just a relaxing trip. We enjoyed the animals, lake, and trails. Penny and Dan have thought of everything! We will return if we get the chance!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steve L., Ames, Iowa

13 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

“Pond” Vacation

The location was wonderful. The pond was just out the door of the cabin, clean and had a wonderful sandy beach. If you want a very quiet spot with access to water this place is for you.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregg H., Leland, IA

13 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect getaway!

When you come to Stars Hollow Inn & Hobby Farm, you aren’t just paying for a nice place to stay. Dan and Penny have created a wonderful “getaway” to experience, where you can do as much or as little as you want. The cabin is perfectly supplied with more than the average place and Penny’s touches make it feel like home. We enjoyed it all….fishing, the canoe, the hammock and swing, the trails, the garden and all the sweet animals. We would love to come back in the future!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

David H.

11 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

My son and I had an enjoyable stay. Wish we had more time to spend just relaxing by the pond.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

BEAU N.

2 December 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Weekend Getaway

We loved the surroundings. Beautiful scenery and peaceful environment. The cottage is very clean and cozy. Owners are very friendly and welcoming. We were there for the first snowfall of the year. Will definitely come back next year during the summer!

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Keri F.

23 November 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing weekend away

Penny and Dan have a beautiful property. Definitely a place you'll want to stay at in all seasons. The punny named pigs that liked to race me, super sweet dogs, ducks, and cows kept me entertained. It was a very cold and snowy weekend, but the cabin was cozy and it was fun to watch the ducks deal with the pond icing over so they could keep swimming. We did get outside to explore still and saw a beautiful huge bald eagle. We definitely want to return and unplug again. Thanks again for the great weekend!!

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Darren Scott

14 November 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little bit of heaven

This little getaway is pretty much perfection. A Quiet, romantic, comfy little hidey hole, nestled between a lovely pond, and a magical forest. We were absolutely charmed by the environment, and the week spent there, one of the finest we have had. We hiked, saw tons of wildlife, fed the ducks and pigs, and felt the stresses of our lives melt away. We will be back...:).

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rob C.

23 October 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Couples Getaway

This was our second trip to Honeybee Cottage and we are already planning our trip for next year. Dan & Penny are fantastic hosts and their property is such a joy to visit. If you are looking for a peaceful weekend getaway and/or a place to get off the grid to reconnect with your significant other - we can’t recommend Honeybee Cottage enough!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

17 October 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

erinn g.

28 August 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fell in love with the animals!

We absolutely loved staying here. My daughter fell in love with animals. She had so much fun. Great place to stay to unplug and do fun outdoor activities. Thanks!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deb H.

15 August 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relax and enjoy!!

Girls weekend doesn't get any better than Honey Bee Cottage! Everything you need is right there! Penny & Dan are amazing to make your stay perfect! This is our second year going - sitting by the pond watching the ducks is so relaxing and peaceful! Doesn't get any better than this! A must stay for peace and quiet or take the kids to see the cows, pigs, ducks, swim or walk the trails there is something for everyone!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dustin H.

17 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary weekend

We had a great time on the hiking trails, taking strolls around the pond on the canoe, and watching the ducks, bull frogs, and turtles in the pond. A clean, quiet, relaxing weekend get away. The owners did a great job showing us around and making us feel at home.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer L.

18 September 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome relaxing stay

We needed to unplug and unwind and this was just the place to do that!

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Melea B.

17 May 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect getaway

We were looking for a peaceful getaway and we couldn't have been more pleased with our stay. The property was quiet, clean, and secluded. The hosts were so friendly and thought of every detail. We look forward to booking again.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

John M.

2 November 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint Cottage

Very short but enjoyable stay. Didn't get to enjoy the easy access hiking trail or canoeing. Would certainly consider staying again.

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Karen V., Pella, Iowa, USA

27 October 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, relaxing nature setting.

The owners are wonderful and keep the property perfect. All is clean and inviting, inside is homey and relaxing. Outside the grounds are well kept and animals add joy to see. Nature is all around with trees, farm animals, birds, squirrels, frogs, pond to fish in, swim in, and Kayak in. Several areas for campfires and they provide fixings for Smores! There are nature trails and a creek. All restores the soul and mind in a relaxing atmosphere.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jamie F.

8 September 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing get away

The stay was wonderful. It was a nice private cottage and decorated beautifully and we had the place to ourselves. We could fish, swim, kayak and walk the trails at our leisure. The surroundings were also beautiful and you could walk around to check out the farm animals. The dogs were very friendly and one walked with me on the trails so I felt at ease after venturing off a little too far. :) The owners, Penny and Dan, are very nice people. We did not want to leave and 2 days didn't seem long enough.

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Nicole N.

30 August 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent getaway

Beautiful property, excellent hosts!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Michelle G.

13 August 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect relaxing getaway

Truly loved this little rental, very clean, extremely well organized, every question already answered. My daughter loved the animals, the walking trails are gorgeous, the pond relaxing, everything very private. If you’re hesitant all I can say is BOOK IT, you can’t go wrong with this property and owners.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

About the host

Hosted by Penny Franke

Dan and I became country folk almost 5 years ago when we found this beautiful property just north of Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Iowa. We never knew how much we would love running a hobby farm, which includes milking a cow (by hand;), lots of chickens, beekeeping, gardening, bread making, canning, etc. We just cannot keep this little piece of paradise, which is adjacent to 140 acre trail system, all to ourselves any longer! The property has an adorable cabin, which we have named Honeybee Cottage, along with a private and spacious lower level of our home, named Bella's Suite (after our jersey cow;). Come and see how beautifully blessed we are to live on this property which is truly the land of milk and honey! We will do everything we can to make you feel as though our home is your home! In fact, don't be surprised to find some farm fresh eggs in your refrigerator, along with some other yummies;). Hope to see you soon!

Languages:

English

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Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby

Photo gallery for Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow Inn and Farm Hobby

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property