Adrian Helen review 29 Jul 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Being surrounded by sights and sounds of the rainforest: sunset, going to sleep, waking up, sunrise.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Expect to get away from it all and try new experiences. Explore the surrounding area on foot.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The lodge seems to be in complete harmony with the local environment including the local people.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Magical. The accommodation is wonderful, the food and hospitality excellent and the location unique.
Kate Birbilis review 30 Dec 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The time I spent at the Eco-lodge was amazing! The view from my little house was breathtaking. I could see nothing but lush forest. The sounds of the wilderness at night were very peaceful. The food and community atmosphere in the dining area was great and very refreshing too.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The only tip I would have is stay longer! I wish I had more than 3 days at the Eco-lodge!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes! All the staff was very willing to discuss any aspect of the Eco-lodge with me. I learned a lot. It was nice to have a vacation without throwing all the things I care about out the window!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing! I cannot wait to go back. I have already recommend the Eco-lodge to others.
Ruth Hanson review 10 Sep 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Every part of our week long stay at the lodge was memorable. We had the best week of our lives! We did lots of workshops which were all brilliant in different ways. Learning Balinese crafts from local people was an incredible experience. We especially enjoyed the carving workshop with Ketut. Our ceremonial cleansing with Jeru is something else that we will never forget. The food was amazing. As vegans we didn't know what sort of food we'd be able to choose from, and how big a variety there would be, but we were very pleasantly surprised! We ate extremely well, and there was something different to try every day! The food was imaginative and always fresh. My energy levels soared. The girls in the kitchen are very good at what they do!
We both loved our bungalow, Rumah Manis. It was secluded enough to offer us privacy when we wanted it, but only down the steps from the hub of the lodge. It was nice to have the beautiful bungalow to relax in, with the local staff on one side, and the rainforest down some more steps on the other. Waking up as the sun rises, and to the sounds of the rainforest coming to life, is something I will never forget. Likewise with being lulled to sleep by the wildlife, and the resident roof gecko!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Try everything! There is so much on offer here, both literally in terms of things to do, and figuratively, in terms of emotional awakenings and new perspectives on life. You just have to open yourself up and be willing to take it all in. The local people can offer you so much. Be willing to speak with them and learn about their lives. We heard stories that were humbling and inspiring. It is also lovely to hear from the local people themselves about how much of a difference the tourism at the eco-lodge is making. We took ourselves on a walk into the forest one day, passing lots of houses. We spoke to nearly everyone - we were invited for coffee, dinner, and to a wedding!
Other tips:
There is no malaria in Bali. There are also very few mosquitoes at the lodge! We had people trying to convince us before we left that we would be bitten alive...we generally are wherever we go!... I honestly did not get bitten once at the eco-lodge. And I wore no insect repellent.
If you're taking soaps with you, take natural ones, as you won't want to pollute the rainforest with chemical filled detergents!
Don't just book a couple of days. We could only stay for a week, and even that wasn't long enough! This is definitely the best place to be in Bali!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, most definitely. Many local people are employed by the lodge, and paid a good wage. Other people who aren't involved in the lodge directly, still seem to reap the benefits. The lodge sponsors a local football team and also a martial arts class (if I remember correctly). There is an English class run at the lodge weekly for local children. Everyone in the village seems to know about the lodge, and they talk about it in a good way!
The work that Linda and Norm do environmentally-speaking is also very good. The eco-philosophies at the lodge are sound; for example, food is all local, most of it grown at the lodge. Water isn't wasted on unnecessary laundry, like at most of the mainstream hotels. Everything that can be recycled is recycled! There is a very long list of all the eco-friendly measures that are put into practise here.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was simply amazing. The best experience of our lives. We were very sad to leave! I generally don't like to re-visit places, but this is a definite exception.
Thank you, Linda and Norm, for such a brilliant start to our married life. We will see you again soon!
Kirsty McIver review 9 Jul 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The sheer beauty of the rainforest - and learning that it is so much more than just beauty on our "edible garden" tour. Growing to understand how the people of Mount Batakaru live, completely in touch with and making use of every part of their natural environment. Cooking fish sate, eating cocoa and other fruit fresh from the tree, hearing rare wildcats cry at night, watching a stand off between a wild Bali monkey and a dog... too many to list!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't hold back - immerse yourself in your surroundings - you will learn so much.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - so many local people are employed at the eco lodge. Not only that, Linda and Norm (the owners) teach them English and ecology, enabling them to simultaneously making a living off and preserve their environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing. What Linda and Norm have done and are continually doing is incredible.
Steve Linstead review 29 Apr 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I really enjoyed the eco-lodge and would recommend it to anybody seeking refuge from the outside world. The Balinese chef - (Putri?) - was excellent and she kept us well fed with the local cuisine in the restaurant on the site. You could spend all day exploring the garden and the water holes were ideal for bathing. We went on lots of walks with local guides who were both charming and informative. Linda and her husband must us feel very welcome.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Apart from the noise of the rain forest it is very quiet after 8:30pm there is no TV etc so take plenty of books to see you through to bed time.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Linda seems to organise the whole site to benefit the local people and they seem very happy and well looked after. The impact on the environment was certainly minimised at the eco lodge.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Loved it and enjoyed Linda's company - thanks very much for the experience - it was so different!!!!
Jessamyn Bean review 4 Sep 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
My husband and I stayed at the Eco Lodge for our honeymoon this June. It was an amazing trip, truly wonderful. The views, the rooms, the scenery, the people, all wonderful. We enjoyed our trip so much, it is actually hard to describe! We spent a lot of time chatting with the owners about living in Bali and their environmental practices, which were really great! The food was EXCELLENT! Everything was super tasty, organic, and generally fresh out of the garden. I don't think I've ever had such healthy and delicious food. We especially enjoyed the local Balinese dishes, and we recommend the cooking workshop. We took several workshops with local people from the village that were very informative. We also hiked up the mountain and took several guided walks. The mountain was spectacular, but very difficult. Worth the pain definitely! Everything was just so beautiful and perfect that we are probably planning on moving to Bali in a few years, that's how awesome this place is! I aspire to a lifestyle as environmentally friendly and beautiful.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Beware the horrendously long plane ride that you will have to take to get there. After eating such delicious food on your vacation, the plane food will seem utterly inedible. I recommend the cultural workshops that are available and climbing up Mt. Batukaru.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I absolutely feel that the trip benefited the local village. We met a lot of people who were directly employed by the eco lodge, and it definitely made a difference in their lives. Be sure to take the carving workshop!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing, breathtaking, fantastic, I want to live in Bali forever!
Delia Stephens review 17 Aug 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This ecolodge on Bali is a very special place. Real sustainable tourism, lovely friendly people, fantastic food (all the meals we had were delicious), beautiful environment and amazing personalised tours organised around our interests and with drivers or guides who spoke English. We found out a lot about traditional village life on Bali and saw some amazing wildlife. This place is really good for the soul. Space and peace. We particularly liked the rainforest walk on Mt Batakaru and just chilling on the verandah of our Jungle House with a view down from the mountain.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for rain in the afternoon and/or evening at some times of year (this is a wet bit of the mountain) and slippery steps. The waterholes are fascinating and pretty but may be disappointing if you're looking to swim.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The ecolodge really works in partnership with the local people and helps visitors to understand and participate in traditional Bali life. Makes a really positive contribution to the environment through the promotion of local permaculture and the way it does everything (deep green but wears it lightly!). Also assisting and promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism in the rest of Indonesia and beyond. A shining example of best practice and a beacon for others to follow.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The best holiday we've ever had, particularly the elements booked through responsibletravel.com - they were the highlights and we'll definitely be looking through your catalogues again.
Amanda Peters review 24 Aug 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of my family enjoyed the experience and got on very well together. I was proud of my mum & dad (in the 70s) who made the most of the visit. My 5-year old sons thought it was wonderful.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The Ecolodge is in a beautiful setting, and has many excellent facilities such as daily cheap massage, delicious meals, guided hikes etc. However, you will not be pampered in the same way as done in other hotels. Part of the time you may well be a little damp, chilly, and in relatively close proximity with a variety of harmless insects. But that's what happens if you want to live in the rainforest. Maybe bring some cards, a game, or a good book so that you can really enjoy the more relaxed pace of life.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, this was evident. The national land owners were heavily involved in managing the site, and Linda has designed a program of activities that visitors can do together with local guides and teachers. Further, it's clear that the lifestyle provided for visitors is one of minimal impact on the surrounding rainforest.
Miranda Sterkens review 29 Jul 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The beauty of the environment.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be aware of rainfall - even in dry season - our trip to the rainforest was cancelled due to the rain - we did not have clothes for this weather, therefore we decided to leave earlier (1 day instead of 3 days).
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We were thrilled by the environment and the location of the eco lodge, but we had bad luck with the weather which was disappointing overall.
Catherine Zimmerman review 27 Oct 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Trekking in the rainforest, and swimming in beautiful natural pools!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared to eat a lot - the food at the eco lodge is all delicious!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, Linda and Norm have many local people working at the lodge and as guides for guests wanting to go on trips. Norm is also teaching the landowners new sustainable farming methods. They have managed to create a luxurious haven for travellers which doesn't have a negative impact on the local area, which is still quiet and not touristy at all.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic, I'm just sorry it's over!
Danielle Osborne review 16 Sep 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
To say the most memorable moment is not possible, as the whole experience was great, from the amazing views that surround the lodge, to the happy friendly staff and the accommodation was lovely with the panoramic windows surrounding us with nature, and amazing sunrises!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We went for 3 nights of our honeymoon, and it was a perfect setting, though we wished we had longer at the Lodge. It is very secluded, which is part of the beauty, so just be stocked up on your necessities. At least Opt for a guided tour, the guides are great. And take lots of insect repellent (preferably the natural sort).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
We definitely felt our stay benefited the locals, the lodge and family who run it are extremely conscious about preserving the environment and the cutler around them. Their enthusiasm is inspirational!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A fantastic experience! So happy we booked and experienced this alternative holiday, In fact the Eco Lodge made our honeymoon!
Read the operator's response here:
Thank you for your lovely comments, and please note there is only the odd mosquito in the wet season.
Mark Rodger review 22 Jun 2007
We stayed at this eco lodge for our honeymoon for about 5 days. It is one of the most naturally beautiful places I've been too. The staff we exceedingly hospitable, the food was exquisite and the day trips which Linda (who managed the eco lodge) helped us organise were wonderful. It's not for those who want to go out every night to club (although they'd probably do well to come anyhow) but for those who love beauty and need a place to find rest and peace it's just what the doctor order.
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Waking up every morning to the sound of birds and the most beautiful sunrises I've ever seen.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The Eco Lodge is quite secluded. If you like crowds and want to be a tourist this may not be the place for you. You can go on day trips so you don't have to stay there the whole time. Certainly if you like a bit of peace and quiet it is perfect.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, without a doubt. The family who run the Eco Lodge purchases almost everything from the village and employ a number of the local people. They grow almost everything in the beautiful gardens.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was our honeymoon so it was always going to be the best holiday of our lives. The family are wonderful and extremely helpful and hospitable.
Philipp Klaus review 1 Nov 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I wrote in the guest book of the hotel that it should be the role model for all other hotels in Bali. So good and different to nearly all of the other hotels I have seen in Bali. The only truly peaceful place.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bali had its best time in the past. Now it is the Mallorca of Australia. Totally crowded (Several million people living on the island. Any flat area is under construction.). Stay in the mountains and in parts of the north. Stay away from any major city or village except for a short visit. If you want to go there, please choose this hotel as your base.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, definitely. The hotel just won the yearly award of Asia for its eco-style. Only local people are hired and trained. Supports the nearby village & rainforest. Build to the natural local environment. And so on.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
This stay was only a part of my holiday in Bali. Beside the very special seminar I had before in the Gaia Oasis this was the very best part. While check to arrange all my holidays in the future through this website.
Pam Luscombe review 30 Aug 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Walking through the jungle on a local track with a village guide to visit the nearest temple to view a once only 60 year ceremony taking place. The local people made us so welcome and it was a wonderful insight into their culture. Ketut shared so much knowledge about his environment and life with us during the walk. Also having local villagers cook traditional Balinese food for us - they were most generous in sharing with us and it was great not to eat "tourist" food.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you are looking for a very relaxed few days in a remote jungle resort with no "extras" (i.e. bars, swim-up pools etc!) this is the place for you. Take some books, book a massage and just enjoy! Just sitting on your balcony looking out to the jungle will offer such peace and there are some wonderful walking experiences. If you want to become part of a delightful family and a close local community for a few days this is the place for you - everyone is so generous in sharing their time and lives with you.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely! Local people are offered employment and the impact on the environment in as minimal as could be given the local constraints. The operators are actively trying to achieve excellence in their environmental practises and encourage local communities to participate.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A totally wonderful experience - trying to plan another visit in the near future. It has made us really think about how we are living our lives and we already are yearning to return!
Sonia review 18 Feb 2007
Top of the places to stay - environmentally conscious, Linda your host tries to make sure that local villagers benefit from your stay. A very beautiful place far away from the maddening crowds below, fantastic walks in the rainforest to temples, through plantations - discover the delights of new fruits like mangostein and snakeskin fruit and see cocoa pods as big as a pineapple and eat sweet coffee beans straight off the tree - truly awe-inspiring.
A variety of places equally at a distance from each other for privacy a tiny cottage perfect for two or a jungle house big enough for all the family with stilted veranda and everyone has their own room! - Local rain water sourced for your showers and the food is great - healthy and as much as possible organic from the garden - Katut the chef and the lovely ladies from the village do everything to make your stay a magical memory - Linda has created a wonderful heaven on earth she and her two sons (Oska and Larz) are fantastic company and the menagerie of animals is wonderful.
I didn't want to leave and stayed an extra 3 nights! - easy to get down to the ocean and beaches and other parts of Bali if you have a car/moped for day trips or Linda can organise a driver for you. Or just relax and enjoy this heavenly paradise on earth. Linda knows many people so if you are interested in exploring the islands other treasures she is happy to offer excellent advice.
If you just want to layback swing on the tree swing, have tea in the teahouse overlooking the extinct volcano or swim in the private waterfall just a short walk below the ecolodge. Just perfect - cannot wait to return and walk with the gigantic floaty winged butterflies in the jungle.
Linda took me to a walk to save the Sumatran urangutans on my last day in Ubud and I am still dreaming all the local peoples wonderful smiles and of Katut's salad of fern tips sourced from the organic garden truly delicious. I went to bed each evening listening to the sounds of the resident rare gecko and frogs lulling me to sleep!
