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Rediscover Luxurious Rejuvenation: Hilton Vilamoura – One of the Largest Spas in Portugal and the Exquisite Flavours of Cilantro Restaurant

    I stayed at the Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, a true oasis where luxury meets serenity in the Algarve. Set between world-renowned golf courses and breathtaking beaches, this five-star resort offers more than just a stay — it’s a sensory journey.

    Privileged Location

    The Hilton provides complimentary transport to the Vilamoura Marina and the iconic Falésia Beach, where the hotel has a private concession. From the first warm welcome to the tranquil ambiance, every moment invites rest and delight.

    A Spa Sanctuary

    The 7 Seven Spa, one of Portugal’s largest, is a sanctuary of wellness. The circuit includes hydrotherapy pools, waterbeds, jacuzzi, Turkish bath, sauna, hot stone room and sensory showers. I chose the Suite Pack, held in the VIP Spa Suite, which includes a relaxing aromatic massage with essential oils (ylang ylang, lavender, pomegranate and sweet orange), champagne, chocolate truffles and fresh fruit. A luxurious, rejuvenating experience for body and mind.

    Pools & Thoughtful Touches

    Guests enjoy six swimming pools, indoor and outdoor, a kids’ club, and little details like complimentary flavoured waters throughout the property — including in the spa. Everything is curated for guest wellbeing.

    Aquarela Restaurant: Elevated Simplicity

    Open from 11:00 to 17:30, Aquarela impressed with its variety and freshness. The grilled tiger prawns with coriander rice and Algarve salad were cooked to perfection — simple, aromatic, and delicious. I also loved the grilled sea bass fillet with salt-roasted baby potatoes and Algarve salad. The quality of the ingredients shines in every bite.

    For dessert, I surrendered to the Salted Caramel & Chocolate Delight — 70% dark chocolate with golden sugar caramel and Flor de Sal from Ria Formosa. A nostalgic flavour, reminding me of a honeycomb chocolate I loved in my teenage years. I also tasted the lemon cheesecake with Alentejo ricotta, the coconut chia pudding with raspberry (the healthiest option), and the classic Baba au Rum with whipped cream.

    Cilantro Restaurant: Culinary Brilliance

    Under the guidance of Executive Chef André Simões and Pastry Chef Vítor Ramos, Cilantro Restaurant offers a masterclass in flavour and finesse.

    The standout starter? Scallops with black rice, crispy enoki mushrooms, cauliflower purée and coriander oil — absolute perfection. Other highlights: Piri-Piri prawns, shrimp and coriander risotto with sea bass, and the sea bass fillet with basil-lime mashed potatoes and red pepper beurre blanc — elegant and bold.

    The monkfish, shrimp and bacon skewer impressed in both flavour and presentation. As for the desserts, they’re simply irresistible:

    • Chocolate textures with salted caramel and pine nut crunch, balanced with fresh berries.
    • Banana and peanut brownie with blueberry sorbet: warm, vegan, and addictive.
    • Cocoa & Coconut Delight: mousse with avocado, dates and coconut.
    • Red fruit puff pastry with almond cream.
    • Traditional crème brûlée with medronho truffle from Monchique.

    Breakfast at Moscada

    Each day begins with a generous buffet: fresh juice, sliced fruit, a vast selection of bread and pastries (changing daily), cheeses, homemade jams, yoghurt with granola, and a latte. There’s a chef on hand to prepare warm dishes to order. Vegan options and plant-based milks are always available.

    Exceptional Service

    The team’s friendliness and attention to detail make this resort feel like home. I’m already longing to return!

    https://www.hilton.com/pt/hotels/faohihi-hilton-vilamoura-as-cascatas-golf-resort-and-spa

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