Flameback Eco Lodge

Introduction

Flameback Eco Lodge is a highly-regarded eco lodge which offers a glamping experience in a bird sanctuary on the shores of the tranquil Weerawila Lake in Sri Lanka’s Deep South. This luxury tented lodge has more of a permanent feel than some of its rivals on the fringes of Yala game park and combines excellent levels of comfort with a true safari feel. It is a world away from the traditional Hilton resort a couple of hundred metres away. Flameback is conveniently situated for all the southern national parks, including Uda Walawe and Yala, so it is particularly suitable for guests who would like to visit more than one national park from one base. Here is a rejuvenating natural experience to sharpen your spirits in a lakeside setting where birds chirp their greeting to the dawn of another day and rising early to witness a marvellous sunrise over the lake tempts all but the sleepiest lie-a-bed. The seven glamping lodges have secluded wooden decks facing the lake and offer levels of comfort and privacy that rival many a hotel without ever losing that special connection with the natural world. Food served here is organic and sourced from local communities or its own organic garden. Remember that getting close to nature might mean an insect or two and that this should be viewed as part of the adventure. Flameback takes its eco commitment seriously: it is committed to use of environmentally-friendly biodegradable materials and recycling with no plastic on site. The lodges sit on natural boulders to help minimise use of cement in construction. Amenities such as candles and laundry bags are crafted by local people. It sums up its philosophy in the words of the architect Tadao Ando: “We borrow from nature the space in which we build.”

Accommodation

Seven tented eco lodges, South African made, act as private glamping pods hidden in a lush garden. Elevated teak sundecks afford an excellent view of the lake. The tents feel well constructed and secure with three sets of zips and a mesh net to keep our mosquitos (note that the beds themselves do not have nets). The inside of the tent bears comparison with many hotel rooms; you do not make many sacrifices for being on the fringes of the natural world. The Deluxe Luxury Lodges (39 sqm) have a private deck with a beautiful view of the lake and a toilet and shower. The Honeymoon Suite (66 sqm) has the additional appeal of a lounge area and a 3 sqm plunge pool with a jacuzzi. Facilities in both categories include: King-sized teak bed, a/c, tea/coffee facilities, bottled water, safe, wi-fi, writing table, 24-hour power supply, hairdryer, bath robe and slippers, toiletries, shaver socket.

Facilities

The Skylark Restaurant could grace many a small hotel. This canvas restaurant stands on a raised platform extending to a wooden deck with sofas and sag bags, looking out on to the lake. Lanterns and tea lights provide a delightful ambience. International (particularly Asian fusion cuisine) and Sri Lankan cuisine is on offer. Flameback is fully licensed. You can opt to dine in your lodge or by the banks of the lake: whether you want a BBQ or a five-course fine-dining experience, your request can be catered for. You can request a village lunch where you mingle with a family in their own home or sample a Sri Lankan lunch in a traditional mud house by the lake.

Flameback has an infinity swimming pool with sunbeds, a small library, birdwatching and nature trails with an in-house naturalist, cycling trips and fresh-water fishing in the lake. Weerawila Lake attracts a sizeable collection of local and migratory birds, including both aquatic bird species and jungle dwelling birds. Flameback also hosts several yoga retreats during the year and hosts cookery demonstrations.

Why we like it

The lakeside setting, attention to detail and bird life gives this much-praised experience a special appeal.

Location

Flameback Eco Lodge is nestled within the Weerawila Bird sanctuary in Sri Lanka’s Deep South, just west of Tissamaharama, and well placed for the game parks of Yala and Uda Walawe.