Private, Romantic, Exquisite Cabin Getaway for Two
Guest Testimonials and Reviews / The Hollow
Perfect blend of cabin comfort with Elvish Couture...
"Our life is extremely hectic and stressful . . . and The Hollow allowed us to relax and reconnect with what is meaningful in our lives. This is the perfect local getaway in southern Illinois. Charming and whimsical, the environment is designed to delight and comfort. You can tell that the owners put a lot of care and thought into the home. From the leather auto-reclining love seat, the no-hassle gas fireplace, the beautiful lighting, the drift-off-to-sleep bed - everything in this place is top notch - no expense spared. It was so helpful to have the kitchen beautifully stocked with high-end, high-quality resources (bowls, spices, utensils, etc.). There's a reason why you have to book far in advance for the home . . . but it's worth the wait. I can't wait until we can book another getaway."
Rhonda and Michael
The Creole Reviews | The Cove Reviews
Just like The Cove, the Hollow is a cozy, luxurious, awesome cabin for two. The two can be lovers, friends, family...it doesn't matter to us. We simply want guests to be able to enjoy a luxurious getaway with tons of character and whimsy. One big bed, a power recline leather loveseat and reclining leather chair, and one gorgeous bathroom will allow you to be immersed in another world with your special someone.
We've organized comments and reviews to help you see what our guests have to say about their special stay. Our list has just begun!
Hollow reviews on VRBO :)
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The Hollow was absolutely everything we expected it to be. We were looking for a secluded, romantic weekend away from the kids and the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the Hollow delivered exactly what we wanted. First of all, guests can really feel how much work went into it. As you pull up through the winding hills you can just feel all of the natural beauty surrounding you, and that multiplies by 10 when you open the door to the house, you are immediately submersed in a the warmth of the décor. It gives the same feeling as the first sip of a good glass of brandy, fills you with warmth and goodness.
My wife was totally surprised, she knew I was taking her to a "cabin", but was pleasantly shocked at the "cabin" I found. She was expecting some dumpy log cabin in the middle of the woods somewhere, like where I usually take our boys camping, and I heard a sigh of relief when she opened the door and saw the welcoming coziness of the Hollow. The weather was great for February, we were in the hot tub Friday night and I am an early riser so was in it again for the sunrise Saturday morning, which was beautiful. Several deer were hopping around too, was a very relaxing experience. We ate lunch sitting by the fire pit and it wasn’t cold in the least bit. We did head over to Blue Sky Winery for about 2 hours, but honestly, we aren't much of wine people so we headed back and took another dip in the tub and pretty much just watched tv the rest of the night and Sunday morning. Even though wine is not our cup of tea, it was just another added convenience that the winery was a simple 10 minute walk from the house. I actually really enjoyed the fact that there was no wifi, just added to the romantic feel, you don’t realize how much time you waste online until you don’t have access to it. It really was exactly what I had in mind, just unplugging and hanging out with my wife for a few days. I think we will definitely be back again at some point. I cant imagine how beautiful it must be in Autumn.
Mark and Lynn”
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After hours of searching the internet for a romantic getaway cabin, we stumbled across Rocky Comfort Cabins; the pictures do not do them justice. Speaking with Nancy, I immediately felt her love and passion for their cabins. Her and her husband, Ed, have taken immense care into every detail of craftsmanship and decoration in their cabins. When you drive down the rocky path to the front of the cabin, you are taken back by the architectural beauty and colorful landscaping. My husband and I didn't even unload the car, we needed to see the inside! When you enter the cabin you are immediately greeted by the rug, "Speak Friend and Enter," from The Lord of the Rings movie. Upon entering, you are overwhelmed with a calm feeling as you see the many flameless candles lit, for just the right ambiance. We open the welcoming note from Nancy and Ed, telling us to "Leave all of our worldly troubles behind, for we are now in The Shire." Wow. I can already tell this trip was going to be everything we needed. (The homemade chocolate chunk cookies were also a delicious touch!) Every detail had been meticulously thought of, down to the guest book. From the natural sunlight that shines through the skylights, to the relaxing and comfortable mechanical recliners, to the warmth of the fireplace on those cool evenings. Pour a glass of wine, put on your Egyptian cotton robe and head to the luxurious spa just outside your bedroom. After your dip, cook a delicious meal together in the fully stocked kitchen. It has everything, and I mean everything, you'll need! (Believe me, we've stayed at many cabins over the years. We brought our "usual items" like a potato peeler, wine opener, foil, lighter for the bbq, etc. NONE of these were needed.) All kitchenware was top quality as well. We even bbq'd out on the patio in the rain! There were clear coverings over the patio to let in the natural light, but also exposing the beautiful skyline. Ed and Nancy made sure to think of everything! Want to go out for a while? Just a quick stroll down the path, and you will be at Blue Sky Winery. Enjoy wine tasting and a simple meal while you walk the beautiful grounds of the Vineyard. There are also trails near by for those avid hikers. Pack your bags, "leave all of your worldly troubles behind," and head to The-Cove Hollow! Thank you Ed and Nancy for opening up your home! It was unforgettable, and we will be back! We are already planning our next trip!
Nick and Crystal| Cape Girardeau, Mo”
Guest Comments
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We are blown away. The door, the barrels, the pictures; every single detail about The Holliw is perfect and we can easily tell how much love and effort was put into the home. Just when you think you've seen everything, another exciting detail pops up.
We greatly appreciate your hospitality and enthusiasm for The Hollow. We are already starting to plan our next trip here and can't wait to tell friends and family how amazing this place truly is.
Marklee and Austin | Bloomington, Il”
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Another great stay for us in southern Il thanks to your hospitality! The Hollow is beautiful. Both houses are truly one-of-a-kind! Being snowed in at the Hollow was certainlly interesting. Scenery is so beautiful!
Snowy hot tub nights were spectacular. Already trying to look at our calendar for another trip here. So glad we finally got to meet. All of your hard work has paid off! My favorite place to be in all of southern Il!
Until next time...
Cara and Erik/Lincoln, Il”
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This is our second stay. 1st stay was last February at The Cove. This year was amazing as well. We love the wineries but barely ventured out because we love it here better. Everything awesome! Beautifully furnished! Excellent job again. Hopefully we will be back for longer next time. 4 days is not enough!
Bill and Susanne”
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What a haven this has been for us these past two days. We could tell you put a great deal of love into The Hollow...and we appreciated it! It has all the comforts and the best that the Shire and some hints of the charm of the Elvish - Rivendale has to offer.
The beautiful decor, the extras provided in the kitchen, the plush towels, robes, and rugs, the magical, stress-relieving fire place and spa...We felt the worries from the world of men temporarily melt away.
We were able to connect with each other here, my love and I, in a a way...a deeper, more meaningful way, despite tremendous stressors from work and the business of providing for four teenagers. We will return - as soon as we can.
Rhonda and Michael”
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Thank you for letting us stay in this cabin. Beautiful craftsmanship, attention to detail, and gorgeous decorating are what make The Hollow is so unique. We've stayed at many cabins all over the U.S. over the last decade, and this one hands-down tops the list!
Wonderfully stocked kitchen and bathrooms! Stunning location and so close to home for us! You can bet we'll be back!
Nick and Crystal/Cape Girardeau, Mo”
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I can't tell you how excited we were to book this place. I had a geek attack at the thought of staying in The Hollow. The lack of phone service was startling at first because this was our first trip since we had our 18 month old daughter, BUT, we quickly worked around that and loved the feeling of seclusion once we got used to it. It really DID feel like the Shire. It was perfect; the linens, the robes...you guys are doing an amazing job here. We're already talking about coming back. Thank you. You have no idea how much we needed this.
Zack and Jen July 2016 | Alton, Il”
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Thanks for creating a wonderful get-away. The Hollow is truly a magical realm. It was enough to just sit here and take it all in. We plan to visit again in the future and stay longer We truly wish this was our home.
Tiffany and Scott July 2016 | Indianapolis, IN”
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This place is so cool! All of the details are amazing! Very well thought out - quiet! We had a family of turkeys visit the roof - 11 total. Also saw 5 deer :) Very nice time. Thank you so much!
Dean and Tammy June 2016 | Mackinaw, Il”
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To our gracious hosts, thank you so much for this haven for us. We know this is a haven for many pairs, but it feels like it was made just for us. Every wonderful detail of this home helps bring us away from everythig. For 5 days we've been able to live in the moment and be at peace. Peace and alone time are hard to come by now, and this place encapsulated everything we wanted in a vacation. :)
Adrian and Eden June 2016 | Chicago, Il”
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The Hollow is the perfect retreat! We loved all of the details and the serene setting. We enjoyed the Trillium Trail and hearing Bluegrass music by the amazing Beth Davis at the Yellow Moon Cafe. We look forward to coming back! Many Thanks!
Debra and Ryan October 2016 | Chicago, Il”
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Thank you so much for creating such an inviting home for our honeymoon. We loved staying here. Unforgettable place. Thanks again! We'll be back!
Max and Hannah | August 2016 | Midland, MI”
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This place is absolutely amazing. We can't wait to come back. Every little detail in this cabin was thought of so well! We will be recommending it to everyone we know!
We came here for our honeymoon and I have never found anywhere so peaceful. It was amazing!
Can't wait to come back!
Nate and Katie | November 2016 | Jacksonville, Il ”
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This place is AMAZING!!!
We loved every single thing about staying at the Hollow. We will be back...and who knows, by that time there may be yet another The Hollow House! Thank you for creating such an eclectic retreat for people just like us to come and get away from it all. It was a pleasure to actually get to meet the two of you this weekend as well! Again, thank you for the hospitality you have shown and for allowing us to stay as guests and leave as friends. I know you had no control over the weather, but our anniversary weekend could not have been more spectacular!
Aubrey and Chris February 2016 | Newton, Il”
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Thank you for providing a wonderful experience for us on our anniversary. It was a pleasure to meet the both of you and learn about the Hollow.
The Hollow is absolutely beautiful and we are pleased to be the first guests to stay here! I guarantee this will not be our last stay here. We look forward to our next visit and hope that future guests enjoy the Hollow as much as we did!
Travis and Nicole | January 2016 | Mohomet,Il”
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The road goes ever on and on, down from the door where it began...
We were sad to leave, and so enjoyed our 19th anniversary here in Middle Earth. Thank you for the yummy dessert and we look forward to returning.
Douglas and Amy | May 2016 | Mattoon, Il”
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Our stay was amazing! We plan to make this an annual (or more!) visit!
An older gentleman, dressed all in grey with a tall grey hat stopped by, but he must have been looking for someone else. He left quickly, muttering something about he must have taken a wrong turn past the green dragon ;)
Next time we plan to stay longer - two nights is not enough! Amanda and Brian | September 2016 | Cape Girardeau, MO”
