The Flame Tree Estate & Hotel

Beautifully located not far from Kandy in an idyllic spot which allows complete and utter relaxation. We booked privately with Angelos the manager. Communication excellent which follows through to during your stay where the staff are all very attentive without being intrusive. We were half board and the food was amazing. The owner David sets the vibe with his wonderful description of the property he exquisitely renovated. And his passion for Sri Lanka topped with a mindful of local knowledge make him certainly the host with the most.

I have always wanted to stay in one of these restored country houses and I was delighted by Flame Tree. The beautiful decor and the art collection is worth the trip alone. I am interested in Sri Lankan art and history so this ticked all my boxes. Our room was gorgeous and we went for a walk around the estate grounds. David has done a magnificent job and he is a charming host, taking the time to chat to those who want to and also giving guests space and privacy. The set menu food is delicious and we enjoyed it on the terrace as the monsoon rain poured. When the sun came out, the pool was exactly what we needed to relax with a cooling lime soda or king coconut. Our only regret was not being able to stay longer due to our flight rescheduling.

WOW Where do I start…. This place is special and I will try to keep the summary super clear. 1) This former plantation house is hidden from the road and set in 25 acres. When we drove up the lane I did think OMG what have I done as it’s very off beat…. But then we were blown away. 2) Angelo and the team are just world class as nothing is too much. We had an issue with an air conditioning unit and they resolved it immediately 3) The owner is English and David’s attention to detail is incredible . We didn’t meet him which was a shame as he wasn’t in the country. 4)The main house is incredible and the former home of the mayor of Kandy. 5) The food was incredible with a tasting menu each night. 6) Breakfast was a joy to start the day and lunch superb. 7) The chef is excellent 8) Rooms are super clean and all differently decorated which is a nice touch. 9) Affinity pool is superb 10) Now the estate walk. Incredible for the 30min or the 1.30hr BUT watch out for the leechs as we both got bitten. Didn’t realise until we took our shoes off and blood everywhere but it’s a top walk. 10) The resort taxi team especially Malsham is a must if you are doing a tour. Super lad and a good driver . 11) Watch the slippy marble in the rain as I went flying 12) wildlife is unreal! Mongoose , eagles, monkeys and of course leeches and snakes! This resort is a 9.8 on *********** and for me to make it a 10 I would add tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms and have feather pillows. That’s it! World class !!!! Honestly one of the best places I have ever been to and would love to return.

What a lovely find. A beautiful place with a great pool and the most lovely staff. The room was huge, and the food just great. It's about 45 minutes to an hour outside Kandy by taxi, so a perfect place from which to explore the city and retreat to a peaceful place at the end of the day.