Flameback Eco Lodge

This has been a difficult review to write. We have given it 4 stars but maybe 3 and a half would be fairer, if that were possible. My instinct would be to give it 3 stars, but the other 3 star reviews of this place are far more critical than our experience would justify. There is much to like about this place. The views of the lake shore and birdlife just feet from your deck are beautiful (if you frame your photo correctly) and the team are charming and helpful as individuals (but confused and disorganised as a collective). The safaris, which are a key feature of the lodge, are beautiful, but involve a long drive there and back, and they do not appear to have worked out how to coordinate meals with the safari schedule. Some other reviews have been critical of the 'glamping' tents, but they were one of the positives for us. The bed was very comfortable and the air con was efficient (but obviously noisy) and the showers were efficient with plenty of hot water. The deck was a pleasant place to sit at times but the flying things became a nuisance as dusk settled. This is understandable given the location, and not a complaint. Another positive has been the quality of the meals we had (I will talk later about the meals we did not have). We had a Sri Lankan meal on our first night, and a 'European' meal the second. Both were really enjoyable and served with good humour. Breakfast was tasty and filling. The pool area is welcoming and very enjoyable. As for the negatives, the proximity to the main road cannot be ignored. The traffic noise is a constant and occasionally even drowned out the air con. The site is also shared with a large hotel. This did not impact on us but the publicity for Flameback Eco Lodge does imply a more secluded location. The birdwatching walk with the naturalist consisted largely of the Hilton hotel car park. To be fair, it was quite a rich environment for birds, but it wasn't quite what I was expecting. The restaurant and lounge area are a bit tired. The cushions on the sofas are quite dirty, the glass table tops need a clean and everything needs a little attention. We were not impressed by the service overall which was a bit disorganised. We assumed that our room would have been straightened by the time that we got back from an early safari, but it was untouched until I asked for it to be done and even then, empty drinks glasses were left uncollected for the duration of our stay. They close the window blinds at night as part of the turn-down service but they do not open them again. This might sound trivial but rolling up the blinds involves balancing on the edge of the deck, finding something to stand on to raise the zip to the top, getting soaked by rainwater/condensation run off, and disturbing a swarm of flying things. Getting water replenished required several requests. Not exactly 5 star! We went on an (excellent) safari getting up at 04:15 for a 04:45 departure. A snack of 2 small bananas, cake and water is pr

Amazing stay- couldn’t have been better. Small property with individual “tents” which were very luxurious. Service was incredible- we were here for honeymoon and made to feel very special. Staff were very professional and had very high standards. Food was some of best we have had in Sri Lanka. In a good location to get to multiple parks- this means there is a road nearby but didn’t affect our stay

What a wonderful place to stay,great to wake up every morning to beautiful bird song and fabulous views. The staff were amazing,Sanduni and Ishan couldn’t have been more helpful and accommodating and Dilan our waiter was wonderful. Thushan took us bird watching early one morning and the treatments at the spa were just heavenly.

Wonderfully located on the edge of the lake, very peaceful , with lots of opportunities to view local wildlife. The staff were marvellous- attentive, friendly and professional. The eco-lodge was surprising luxurious- comfortable bed, lots of storage space, and well equipped.

This is a lovely place! The staff is very attentive and friendly. We stayed for two nights and loved the feel of the tent. It was clean and tidy and had a great feel to it. The food is delicious, especially the local curries!! I would highly recommend staying here. It is a great location if you are planning a Safari. All three of us tried the spa facilities and it was great!! All round an excellent experience!