Bella's Suite at Star's Hollow Inn and Hobby Farm

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Entire home

Private patio just steps away from the trails!

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

Parking available
Hot tub
Barbecue grill
Fireplace
Kitchen
Outdoor space

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 5)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

About this property

Bella's Suite is the private, lower level of our home, with a separate entrance. Includes living & dining room, fully equipped kitchen, bath, BR & a massage room! Our hobby farm is nestled beside 140 acres of groomed trails and is truly a haven of natural beauty. We now have our own pristine farm pond and large beach area! Hike, canoe, star gaze, play with farm animals, have a bonfire, and/or help us milk a cow?! Lots of amenities;) Our guests are treated with extreme comfort, countryside peacefulness and Iowa hospitality - at no extra charage;). Experience tranquility on this little piece of heaven on earth as we do all we can to make your stay as relaxing as it is memorable!

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

Hot tub

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

Barbecue grill

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Similar properties

Enter deck via sliding glass doors. Two queen beds are to left & right of entry.

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer

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 holiday home is in a rural area. 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.

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 Bella's Suite at Star's Hollow Inn and Hobby Farm pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

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

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Bella's Suite at Star's Hollow Inn and Hobby Farm located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home 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

Christian C.

31 May 2024

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

Stay at star hollow

It was very peaceful, the best part was all the trails and fishing! I will definitely be returning in the future!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul R.

2 Dec 2023

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

Awesome stay!

Penny and Dan were great hosts. Penny was great communicating throughout our stay and Dan was kind enough to let our kids have a farm experience with Jim on the morning. Highly recommend!

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Irene W.

26 June 2022

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

Beautiful home

Loved the beach farm.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joanna R.

15 Aug 2023

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

Exactly what we needed

Wonderful space! Everything is taken care of so beautifully. Our family fit so well in Bella’s Suite and we loved every minute. Our kids all caught fish. Some helped with animal chores. The quiet country atmosphere was so refreshing to our souls. Would absolutely go back!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dawn P.

19 Feb 2018

Gainslike paradise!

My friend and I went for a girl's weekend away and to go to a concert. Such a cute, clean and quaint little place to stay. The Frank family was very kind and generous. The only downside was that, (for coffee drinkers only), there were only two small creamers for the coffee, so if you need something in your morning coffee, just bring it with you! Nice place to stay. I would definitely recommend this cute little place to stay. Dawn

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ronda M.

27 Apr 2017

Great getaway!

This is a lovely place with ample room to roam... trails, farm friends and wonderful owners, made this place hard to leave after just 2 nights! The Kitchen is well appointed with full array of appliances dishes and plenty of seating. Very comfortable Queen size bed. Closet space to spare if you need it. Nice hot shower in a spacious bathroom. Living room has a great sectional sofa and a cozy fireplace and large TV. All this and Beautifully decorated too. I went with my Daughter for a sewing weekend, but now we each want to come back with our Husband ! Book this one if you love relaxing and being in nature !

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2017

10/10 Excellent

Payton C.

19 Aug 2024

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

Beautiful Getaway!

We traveled to see family but also wanted to stay somewhere that gave us something to do with our children, 4 years and 1.5 years old. My kids loved the animals, swimming in the lake, catching tadpoles/frogs, going on the canoe and more! What a beautiful slice of heaven this property is! The only downfall is that we did not stay longer... guess we will have to go back! One reason I typically do not enjoy staying in rental properties is the overwhelming scents (candles, soaps, cleaners, laundry detergent, etc). But their property does not have this! I almost always get headaches at other rental homes due to this, and even break out allergy wise. And this never happened! I loved crawling into bed knowing that I wasn't going to wake up smelling like a tide pod and with a migraine. This was a HUGE win in my book as well!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brooke S.

6 Sept 2022

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

Best Place to Stay for Quality Family Getaway! Beautiful Modern Day Farmhouse by the Pond with Beach

An Absolutely Gorgeous place to getaway to relax and enjoy God's Creation! Best two days of quality family time together! The kids loved helping with the morning farm chores, letting the ducks out, feeding the chickens, collecting the fresh eggs, visiting the pigs, and feeding the cows! Other favorite activities included picking apples of the tree, feeding the cows apples, scavenger hunt on the hiking trails, swimming in the creek, swimming/kayaking/fishing in the pond, enjoying the beach by the pond, cooking over the fire pit, and of course s'mores by the fire. The beautiful garden and greenhouse, many beautiful flowers, birds, and wildlife. Observing the beehive, playing football in the spacious yard! The suite was amazing, Dan and Penny's hospitality was warm and accommodating! They have the two most friendly, likeable dogs you'll ever meet! Henry stole the hearts of our kids and our Son literally sobbed when he said goodbye to Henry as we were leaving. Absolutely recommend this rental!! Would give 10 stars if I could! Thanks for an amazing weekend!

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura E.

12 Aug 2022

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

Beautiful Stay!!!

Loved meeting the owners - they were so kind and accommodating! The property is GORGEOUS and I have plans to come back with my husband and kids to enjoy all the farm animals. I can't wait to stay again!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne R.

18 Mar 2022

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

Wonderful combination of nature and farm in a wonderful Iowa setting

This was a wonderful place to go with my three grandsons ages 13, six and four. We loved all the animals and hiking the trails and going down by the creek. Bella suites was beautifully decorated with all sorts of special touches such as homemade cookies, various snacks and makings for s’mores. The accommodations were very comfortable.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

27 Nov 2021

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

Short but sweet

We only were able to stay for a night but it was a great meeting spot for us and our son who attends UNI. Penny was very timely in her responses and very accommodating!

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mike R.

2 Nov 2021

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

Back Home Feeling

I left Iowa forty years ago during a severe recession! Small story short, with the success I have made it keeps me from moving back. I came here to check on my elderly mother and visit a few child hood. But this home was so comfortably and cozy, It almost made me feel like a kid again living in the country where I grew up! Thank you Penny!

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kristine D., Cedar Rapids, Iowa

5 Aug 2021

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

Unplug and Enjoy!

Tucked away in the countryside of Iowa, this is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy nature at its finest. Penny and Dan are very welcoming and helpful. My sociable kids (ages 3 and 5) loved the animals and Penny and Dan helped them get to know the chickens, ducks, cows and dogs. It is quite and peaceful. Bella's Suite was the perfect size for us and had all we needed.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa v.

9 Dec 2020

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

Lovely getaway

Lovely property and living space. The kitchen is a cooks dream. Only wish we had been able.to stay longer.

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Amanda L.

19 Nov 2020

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

Perfect country getaway

This is a safe, friendly country getaway full of delightful surprises. We have a 13-year old and a 10-year who forgot about their devices the minute we arrived. They were introduced to chickens, pigs, cows, a cat named "Frank Sinatra" and two of the friendliest dogs we've ever met. The kids took turns paddling a kayak around the pond (which has fish in it), and visiting the various enclosures, feeding Bella and her calf, two quirky pigs, and chickens who walked right up to our patio door to say hello. This large property has several fire pits with seating, free wood, and a stunning view of the stars that proves the hobby farm earned it's name -- Stars Hollow. Adjacent walking trails provided opportunities for uninterrupted chats, views of the creek and (if you're willing to follow the creek a ways) an eagle's nest. I feel like I would be remiss if I didn't mention the yard games, snack box, s'mores kit, and farm-to-table soaps in the adorably decorated suite. Check the fridge for fresh eggs from the chicken coop, and above the stove for a pancake mix that is out of this world. The kitchen has the basics you need but if you don't feel like spending time cooking and cleaning dishes on your vacation, Cedar Falls and Waverly are less than 15 minutes (and a couple of country gravel roads) away and offer a wide variety of take-out options. Bella's Suite is one of two places to stay on the large property. If you want to dip your toes into farm life, Stars Hollow Inn and Hobby Farm is a perfect stay. The inn will be on our must-visit list yearly - the kids wouldn't have it any other way.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kirt H.

8 Aug 2020

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

Country Getaway

Exactly what I was looking for to rest clear my thoughts and spirit

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Michelle A.

7 June 2020

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

perfect getaway

Penny and Dan have an amazing property that is lovingly tended to in everyway. quiet, serene, picturesque. loved it.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

29 May 2020

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

Highly recommend!

We had an amazing time on our mini vacay! The property and rental suite are so beautiful and maintained perfectly. If you love nature and want to get away from the everyday hustle and bustle, you will love this place.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2020

10/10 Excellent

Larry & Doreen M.

17 Dec 2019

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

Wonderful place to kick back and relax!

My husband and I booked our stay at Bella's Suite because it looked like a good place to go for a much-needed get-away. Bella's Suite was better than the pictures. Penny had it decorated for Christmas, which was unexpected and delightful! We enjoyed the fresh farm eggs and other nice touches - we couldn't have been more pleased with our stay! Thank you, Penny & Dan!

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Benita G.

10 Aug 2019

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

Special Memories...

Penny and Dan are such gracious hosts and made us feel right at home during our "camping" trip. This was a special get away for my grandson and I and it certainly turned out to be quite special. We hiked, saw the pig, cows, chickens, rooster and ducks. Henry and Louis graced us with their company as well. Penny took Isaac for a ride around the pond after he had his s'more and Dan took him the following morning to do chores. We had games to play, the kitchen was well equipped, and the place was so comfortable and cute. To sum it up...Isaac said he was going to miss this place and would like to live here. He also stated that next time we should stay for 10 days! From the mouths of babes.... 😊 Certainly a slice a heaven and again, Penny and Dan are awesome. I highly recommend Star's Hollow if you are looking for a quiet and comfortable get away!

10/10 Excellent

Lori H.

25 July 2019

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

Peaceful getaway

The property was even nicer than the pictures! Belle's suite was very comfortable with lots of nice touches. The pond was great. My grandson spent hours on the pond using the kayak and swimming while I relaxed on the sand beach.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

LEE F.

22 July 2019

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

WE ALWAYS FEEL AS THOUGH WE ARE COMING HOME AGAIN, ENJOY THE EVENINGS WHEN CHICKENS AND DUCKS ROAM

PENNY AND DAN HAVE COME UP WITH AN EXCELLENT COMBINATION OF FOREST/FARM/ POND ENVIRONMENT, LOVE THE PEACE AND QUIET.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Diana W.

21 May 2019

Her away from it all

Such a beautiful, relaxing place! If you love nature and peacefulness this is for you. Wonderful hosts, exceptionally clean suite, stylish decor (think Chip and Joanna), a pond with beach, fire pits, fresh eggs, and loving dogs. Access to hiking trails and bike trails. Great restaurants in nearby towns and only 15 minutes from Cedar Falls. Would definitely come here again!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sue H.

4 Apr 2019

Wonderful

Penny and Dan make us feel so welcomed! We share the farm with them, although somehow we feel like it’s all our own.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Eric H.

9 Nov 2018

What an awesome trip

Star's Hollow Inn is awesome. Penny and Dan are great hosts who have thought of every detail. This was our 2nd stay and was even better this time then it was last time with the pond and pig additions. It works out so much better than a hotel for us as we were visiting our family in Cedar Falls which is only a couple of minutes away. We are able to have our family over as the suite has all the amenities so we could spread out and cook dinner for our kids and grandkids. We can't wait to return again. Thanks again Penny & Dan!

Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2018

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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Bella's Suite at Star's Hollow Inn and Hobby Farm

Photo gallery for Bella's Suite at Star's Hollow Inn and Hobby Farm

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 5)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property