2024's Most Unique Airbnb: A Cave House in Hocking Hills, Ohio

Escape to the extraordinary at Dunlap Hollow, Ohio's most unique Airbnb experience of 2024. This stunning cave house, nestled on 34 private acres within the breathtaking Hocking Hills, seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern luxury. Imagine waking up to panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Ohio wilderness. The home's innovative design masterfully integrates with the natural rock formations, creating a truly unforgettable architectural feat.Inside, discover a captivating blend of dark academia and natural elegance. Exposed cave walls and Gothic arches provide a dramatic backdrop to luxurious furnishings and high-end appliances. From the color-coded library to the spacious bedrooms and luxurious bathrooms, every detail has been meticulously crafted to create an unparalleled level of comfort and sophistication. This eco-conscious masterpiece, powered by solar energy and boasting radiant floor heating, offers a luxurious retreat that's both unforgettable and sustainable.

Pros And Cons

Dunlap Hollow Cave House
  • 1500 square feet of living space
  • Unique and incredible design
  • Located on 34 private acres
  • Features exposed cave walls
  • Includes a patio with fireplace and hot tub
  • Electric car charger
  • Solar home, energy efficient
  • Radiant floor heating
  • Uses one-fourth the building materials of a traditional home
  • Four dehumidifiers maintain comfortable humidity levels
  • Air is circulated every two to three hours
  • Two bedrooms (four beds total)
  • Two bathrooms
  • Cool features like custom walnut furniture, Gothic arches, and antique decor
  • Only windows are on the front, potentially limited natural light in other areas
  • The cave will never be the same as it was before construction.

Read more: 5 Amazing Natural Caves Perfect for Reptiles

Exterior Design and Surroundings

The Dunlap Hollow cave house boasts an unforgettable exterior. Nestled on 34 private acres, the home is surrounded by lush pine trees, rocks, and natural beauty. The front of the house is almost entirely glass, offering stunning views and ample natural light. The structure cleverly integrates with the existing rock formation, creating a unique and visually striking design.

Exterior view of the cave house, showcasing the driveway and surrounding natural landscape.
Exterior view of the cave house, showcasing the driveway and surrounding natural landscape.

A large patio area features a fireplace, perfect for enjoying campfires, and a hot tub adds a touch of luxury. An electric car charger is a surprising but welcome addition, showcasing the blend of modern convenience and rustic charm. This truly is an extraordinary home that looks like something straight out of a movie.

Close-up of the patio area with the fireplace and hot tub.
Close-up of the patio area with the fireplace and hot tub.

Interior Design and Living Spaces

Stepping inside, the jaw-dropping interior immediately captivates. The exposed cave walls, ceiling, and back walls create a stunning, natural backdrop. The dark academia theme, featuring Gothic arches throughout, adds a touch of sophistication and elegance.

Interior view of the living area, showcasing the exposed cave walls and Gothic arches.
Interior view of the living area, showcasing the exposed cave walls and Gothic arches.

The living room is furnished with a striking walnut bookshelf holding 534 color-coded books, along with leather couches and a gas fireplace. A centrally located frame TV provides entertainment. The kitchen is equally impressive, with a textured black countertop, purple backsplash tile, and high-end café appliances. The dining area features a custom walnut table and chairs, all complementing the overall design perfectly.

The living room with its impressive bookshelf.
The living room with its impressive bookshelf.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

The cave house includes two bedrooms, both uniquely designed. The first bedroom features a calming green color scheme and ample natural light. The en-suite bathroom features a claw-foot tub nestled against a corner of the cave wall, adding to the home's unique charm.

The first bedroom with its green color scheme and natural light.
The first bedroom with its green color scheme and natural light.

The second bedroom is slightly larger and darker, with velvet wall coverings and two fold-down bunk beds. Its attached bathroom is spacious and features a tiled shower. Both bathrooms showcase the incorporation of the natural cave formations, along with luxurious fixtures.

The second bedroom with its velvet wall coverings and fold-down bunk beds.
The second bedroom with its velvet wall coverings and fold-down bunk beds.

Unique Features and Sustainability

The Dunlap Hollow cave house incorporates several unique features, enhancing both comfort and sustainability. The home is solar-powered and features radiant floor heating, making it incredibly energy-efficient. The cave's natural insulation keeps the temperature regulated year-round, eliminating the need for air conditioning.

The construction process also utilized significantly fewer building materials than a comparable traditional home. A dehumidification system maintains optimal humidity levels, ensuring a comfortable living environment. Fresh air is circulated every few hours, preventing stuffiness and maintaining air quality.

Outdoor Exploration and Property Features

Beyond the house, the 34-acre property offers ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. A trail leads to the top of the cave, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another trail ventures across the valley, exploring additional caves and scenic trails.

View of the trail leading to the top of the cave.
View of the trail leading to the top of the cave.

The property's rich natural environment adds to the overall appeal of this unique Airbnb. Exploring the surrounding area allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Hocking Hills, Ohio.

View of the other trail leading to the other caves.
View of the other trail leading to the other caves.

Conclusion: Is it Worth It?

The Dunlap Hollow cave house is a truly unique and luxurious Airbnb experience. At approximately $300,000 to build, the price reflects the extraordinary design, high-quality materials, and unique features. While not every cave should be converted into a house, this one seamlessly blends nature and modern amenities.

The energy efficiency, minimalist building techniques, and breathtaking views make it a truly exceptional property. If you are searching for an unforgettable and luxurious getaway, this cave house is an option worth considering. It certainly offers an experience unlike any other.