Sintra, Portugal
The 5 best boutique and luxury hotels in Sintra, Portugal
Sintra’s most chic luxury hotels
Sintra, in Portugal’s sun-drenched Lisboa District, is a place where reality and fairy tales blur. Tucked into rolling hills just outside the capital, this UNESCO-listed town feels like a fairytale brought to life – ornate palaces, moss-covered forests and a dreamy, old-world charm that lingers in the air. And when it comes to where to stay, Sintra’s boutique and luxury hotels are as magical as the town itself. Think grand estates with hand-painted azulejos, sleek retreats hidden in nature and historic properties where the past lingers in the details. But with so many stunning stays, which ones truly stand out? We’ve done the hard part – curating a list of the most extraordinary hotels that blend design, comfort and a sense of place.
Top photography courtesy of Outpost Casa das Arribas
01
Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
Located in the hills above Sintra, the Tivoli Palácio de Seteais is a testament to 18th-century neoclassical architecture and timeless elegance. Originally constructed between 1783 and 1787 for Dutch consul Daniel Gildemeester, this palace has gracefully transitioned into a luxurious five-star hotel. After Gildemeester’s tenure, the property was acquired by the 5th Marquis of Marialva, Diogo José Vito de Menezes Noronha Coutinho, who expanded the estate between 1801 and 1802. A notable addition from this period is the grand arch, adorned with intricate neoclassical motifs, commemorating a royal visit. Each of the hotel’s rooms is uniquely decorated, featuring frescoes, rich tapestries and period antiques that reflect the palace’s storied past. While the hotel retains its old-world charm, you are treated to modern luxuries like an on-site Portuguese restaurant, an outdoor pool, manicured gardens and the Anantara Spa.
Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
R. Barbosa du Bocage 8
Sintra
Portugal
Affiliate link (what is it?)
Photography courtesy of Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
02
Penha Longa Resort
Looking for a hotel that combines history, luxury, leisure and sport? Look no further than Penha Longa Resort. Originally a 14th-century monastery, this five-star retreat has evolved into a sprawling resort with manicured gardens, serene walking paths and remarkable views of the surrounding landscapes. Here you can tee off at the renowned 18-hole championship golf course, rejuvenate at the 1,500-square-meter spa or indulge in a tasty meal at one of the resort’s eight restaurants, including the Michelin-starred LAB by Sergi Arola. Not into golf? This resort also boasts tennis courts, fitness centers and stunning nature trails – you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fitness activities! Another standout feature we love about this resort is the pool area – it’s eye-catching, well laid out and the views from the pool are simply exceptional.
Penha Longa Resort
Estrada da Lagoa Azul
Linhó
Sintra
Portugal
Affiliate link (what is it?)
Photography courtesy of Penha Longa Resort
03
Rosegarden House
If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate and off the beaten path, Rosegarden House is the one for you. This centenary house, renovated in 2019, is now a boutique hotel offering just eight exclusive rooms. This boutique hotel has distinct charm and quirk and the beautifully decorated rooms exude a homely feel. Among the standout amenities is the iconic library, a cosy lounge area where you can spend hours with a good book or simply enjoy a quiet moment. The Rosegarden Kitchen, the on-site restaurant, also offers an intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy light meals. Outside you’ll find a heated outdoor swimming pool and a terrace, adorned with traditional Portuguese pavement and surrounded by greenery.
Rosegarden House
Largo do Adro da Igreja 12
Sintra
Portugal
Affiliate link (what is it?)
Photography courtesy of Rosegarden House
04
Casa Holstein Quinta de Sao Sebastiao Sintra
Casa Holstein Quinta de São Sebastião, housed in a well-preserved historic building, is all about authenticity and quiet elegance. The hotel’s exterior showcases classic Portuguese architecture, characterised by its distinctive pistachio hue and traditional design elements. Inside, the 13 guest rooms bring together contemporary luxuries with timeless décor. What we love about Casa Holstein Quinta de Sao Sebastiao Sintra is that the outdoor spaces are just as well designed as the interiors. Outside you’ll find expansive gardens featuring hidden paths, lush greenery and an outdoor pool with views of the surrounding landscapes – the ultimate spot to sit back and relax!
Casa Holstein Quinta de Sao Sebastiao Sintra
R. São Sebastião 3
Sintra
Portugal
Affiliate link (what is it?)
Photography courtesy of Casa Holstein Quinta de Sao Sebastiao Sintra
05
Outpost Casa das Arribas
Outpost Casa das Arribas combines the privacy of self-contained apartments with the luxury of hotel amenities. The property offers seven minimalist apartments, each designed to accommodate 2-4 guests. These spaces feature open layouts, micro-cement flooring and ceilings soaring up to five metres, creating an airy and modern ambience. Large windows frame expansive ocean views, connecting the indoors with the breathtaking coastal landscape. Spanning a vast 10,000-square-metre garden, Outpost Casa das Arribas also offers amenities like a large outdoor pool, a yoga studio, a Finnish sauna and spa area, which includes hot and cold plunge pools. You’ll also find a tennis court with basketball hoops and a small workout area on the grounds – what more could you need?
Outpost Casa das Arribas
R. Dr. António Brandão de Vasconcelos 35
Colares
Portugal
Photography courtesy of Outpost Casa das Arribas
Share this
Book your stay
Stay in the know
Sign up for the latest hotspot news from the Mediterranean.
