First off, we visited Hilton Shillim not for its wellness programs but for a peaceful relaxing time off. So my review will not account for the quality or efficacy of the wellness program.
The property is nestled quietly into the western ghats. Taking that turn from the road (or not?) into Hilton seemed akin to barging into the Harry Pottersque platform 9 3/4! The property appears out of nowhere almost against the run of play. The approach to the property is patchy and that would probably even seem like a compliment. If you're coming from Mumbai, I'd suggest you take the exit towards Varsoli Toll, head straight to Kamshet, take a right towards Kamshet Pawna Nagar and that should lead you to Hilton from around the Pawna lake. The roads are much better with a few rough spots hear and there but wayyyy better than the default shorter route Google will guide you through.
The hospitality and the beauty of Hilton Shillim more than makes up for the poor roads.
Surrounded by the western ghats, you'll see forests all around. You can feel and smell the greenery even during the dry months. The property doesn't tamper much with nature rather it has nicely tucked itself into it and that's what makes Hilton Shillim such a beauty.
The property is around 320 acres and the rooms, the restaurants, the clubhouse, the wellness center are all spread out. Easily a 10-15 minute walk from point A to point B. But Hilton has a bunch of our very own Nanos to move you around. The Nanos are literally available at your beck and call. They arrive within 5-10 minutes of your call.
The service was top notch! A few experiences I'd like to share -
On the day of arrival, my wife caught some kind of allergy and had a stuffed nose with a bad headache. We called the reception to see if they had a paracetamol. Within 5 minutes, a medical practitioner was in our room with a full kit of medicines. She enquired about the problem, gave an anti allergen and my wife was back on her knees in no time!
If you're traveling with a toddler, the property also provides complimentary kichdi and hot milk for your kid. This was a major plus for us since we didn't have to worry about carrying extra food and heating it every time. Our baby got to eat fresh 5 star food too!
I ordered a birthday cake for my wife. It was supposed to be chargeable but the hotel made it complimentary! And the cake was all fresh fruit and cream. One of the best we've had.
Another experience - at around 4am in the morning, we suddenly started hearing strange noises on the top of our villa. Seemed like someone was busy walking around and trying to play some mischief. We got a tad worried and called the reception. Within 2 minutes we got a call back saying that it was a langoor and that the security team is on its way to shoo it away. This was their response unit at 4am in the sub 12 degree winter of January! Impressed, we were for sure!
There were a few interesting activities scheduled too. Block painting, clay moulding, meditation, etc. Do engage in them to keep yourself occupied. They're fun too and give you a chance to interact with others and probably make a few friends.
But it's probably a place you don't want to bring your kids to. Besides the small play area, the resort is largely not welcoming for the kids. The wellness center and the cafes there are out of bounds if you're with a kid.
The food at the restaurants was run-of-the-mill. Nothing to write home about but was decent and most importantly, healthy! Loved the fact that the menu had calorie and nutrition data for most items.
Overall, it was one of the best resorts we've been to. 5 star service, 5 star property, 5 star experience!
Thank you Hilton!
