Coming to Dali, the highly recommended Hilton Dali Resort is a must for a comfortable journey

## **A Hidden Paradise Above the Clouds: My Stay at Hilton Dali Resort** Perched on the hillside of Cangshan Mountain, Hilton Dali Resort boasts an unparalleled location overlooking panoramic views of Erhai Lake and the ancient city. As the flagship property of this international chain in Dali, it seamlessly combines Hilton's signature elegant service with Dali's unique natural beauty and cultural essence. During my stay, I truly experienced the philosophy of "hidden in the mountains yet close to the city." ### **I. Arrival: A Cloud-Level Entrance with Ceremonial Flair** After a 40-minute drive from Dali Airport, the winding mountain road gradually elevated our perspective until we reached the hotel entrance, where the full panorama of Erhai Lake suddenly unfolded before us. The entrance features the traditional Bai minority "three-drop water" doorhead design, harmoniously blending modern materials with ethnic elements. Bellmen dressed in modernized Bai ethnic attire greeted us with warm smiles and offered welcome tea—a fragrant Pu'er tea infused with local rose petals. The lobby features a high ceiling design with floor-to-ceiling windows framing Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake like a massive painting. Whether sunny or rainy, the misty scenery creates a beautiful landscape. During check-in, the front desk staff provided detailed information about hotel facilities and proactively upgraded us to a lake-view room, instantly dissolving our travel fatigue. ### **II. Guest Room: Serene Luxury with Thoughtful Details** We stayed in a **Deluxe Lake View Room**, approximately 50m² with a well-designed layout featuring warm wood tones and cream colors. The most stunning feature was the daybed by the floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for relaxing while watching the shimmering lake and the twinkling lights of the ancient city. - **Bedding**: Hilton's signature Serenity Bed with down comforters and high-thread-count cotton linens provided an exceptional sleeping experience. - **Bathroom**: The wet and dry separation design featured Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries, with a bathtub facing Cangshan Mountain, creating a cloud-like bathing experience. - **Smart Features**: Electric curtains, Bluetooth speakers, wireless charging, and other modern amenities were available—convenient yet sophisticated. During turndown service, the staff not only tidied the room but also placed lavender essential oil spray and a weather forecast card on the bedside table, demonstrating their attention to detail. ### **III. Dining: Poetic Culinary Delights** The hotel features **"Yu" Chinese Restaurant** and **"Er" All-Day Dining Restaurant**, offering Yunnan cuisine, Cantonese cuisine, and international buffets. - **Breakfast (Er Restaurant)**: A wide variety of options included not only standard Western breakfast items but also Dali specialties such as rushan cheese, ersi noodles, and rice noodles, complemented by fresh-squeezed juices and freshly ground coffee. - **Afternoon Tea (Lobby Lounge)**: Themed around "Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon," the three-tiered stand included local flavors like rose pastries and rushan cheesecake, perfectly paired with Dian Hong tea. - **Dinner (Yu Chinese Restaurant)**: Featuring Yunnan delicacies, dishes like matsutake chicken soup and spicy Erhai Lake fish preserved traditional flavors while meeting high-end dining standards. ### **IV. Facilities and Services: Full Vacation Experience** - **Infinity Pool**: Located on the top floor, the pool visually "merges" with Erhai Lake, making it a perfect photo spot. Morning swims amid the mist feel like entering a fairyland. - **SPA Center**: Using local plant essential oils, the "Cangshan Hot Stone Massage" offers professional techniques that relieve travel fatigue. - **Fitness Center**: Open 24 hours with advanced equipment and mountain views through floor-to-ceiling windows, making workouts refreshing. - **Family-Friendly**: Features a kids' club and provides tents, picture books, and family activities, ideal for family trips. ### **V. Exploring the Surroundings: Secluded Yet Connected** Though located on the hillside, the hotel offers convenient transportation: - **Free Shuttle Bus** to and from Dali Ancient Town (about 15 minutes), allowing guests to explore the night market's vibrant atmosphere. - **Recommended Itinerary**: Watch the sunrise from the hotel's viewing platform in the morning, stroll to Jizhao Temple (a popular nunnery within walking distance) before noon, relax at the hotel pool in the afternoon, and enjoy mushroom hotpot in the ancient town in the evening. ### **Conclusion: More Than a Hotel, an Immersive Mountain, Water, and Cultural Experience** Hilton Dali Resort successfully blends international service standards with Dali's regional characteristics, offering both high-end resort comfort and a deep appreciation of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake's charm. Whether for honeymoons, family vacations, or solo retreats, it fulfills all expectations of an ideal stay. **Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)** **Suitable for: Quality-seeking vacationers, family travelers, photography enthusiasts** **Best Seasons: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November), avoiding the rainy season** If you're longing for a journey that combines luxury with natural spirituality, Hilton Dali Resort is undoubtedly an excellent choice.