A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
Centrally-located
You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
Discover nearby landmarks
Near Sintra Mountains
5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 10
Popular amenities
Balcony
Private pool
Toys
Childcare available
Barbecue
Free Wi-Fi
Explore the area
Sintra
Sintra Mountains
Place, Sintra Mountains
1 min walk
Monserrate Palace
Place, Monserrate Palace
5 min drive
Avenida da Liberdade
Place, Avenida da Liberdade
38 min drive
Lisbon (LIS-Humberto Delgado)
Airport, Lisbon (LIS-Humberto Delgado)
42 min drive
Rooms & beds
5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)
Bedroom 1
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 3
2 Single Beds
Bedroom 4
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 5
2 Single Beds
4 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Toilet
Bathroom 2
Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Toilet
Bathroom 3
Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Toilet
Bathroom 4
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Number of living rooms
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal
Sturdy walls, stone floors and vaulted ceilings evoke the atmosphere and history of this former monastic retreat. Lovingly restored over the past 20 years, the owners have ensured that the Quinta is maintained to the highest standards of comfort while preserving its historic character. The Quinta is nestled in the hills of Sintra, adjacent to the Monserrate Botanical Gardens. It is reached via a narrow, winding off-road track leading to only a handful of Quintas, ensuring peace, privacy, and seclusion. Guests will need their own transport to reach the restaurants and attractions of Sintra.
Having spent much of their lives collecting antiques in the Far East, the owners have given the Quinta a unique charm by blending traditional Portuguese antiques with European paintings and Asian ceramics, creating interiors that perfectly complement the property's beautiful and exotic surroundings.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please put your rubbish bags in the large rubbish storage containers at the top of the track on the left before the main road. Many thanks
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
A gardening team might come on Fridays to carry out work and may make some noise- so this is a good day to plan a day out.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 67300/AL
Property # 1632809
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Sintra
Located in Galamares, a neighbourhood in Sintra, this villa is in a rural area and by the sea. Olga Cadaval Cultural Center and Sintra Science Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Cascais Cultural Center and TagusPark. Consider Cascais Miragem for a night out or Santa Marta Park if you're travelling with kids. Windsurfing and sailing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and cycling nearby.
Does Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.
How much does it cost to stay at Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal?
As of 24 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal on 1 Nov 2026 start from AU$7,055, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Magnificent historic villa in Sintra, Portugal located?
This family-friendly Sintra villa is located by the sea, within 1 mi (2 km) of Sintra Mountains and Monserrate Palace. Sintra Science Center and Quinta da Regaleira are also within 2 miles (3 km). Galamares Tram Stop is 17 minutes by foot.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Property was clean, location was more remote than anticipated but the weather was fantastic and we really enjoyed being at the property. Communication was somewhat of a barrier with the onsite housekeeper but we managed through the translate app on our phones.
The pictures can't capture how beautiful this place is. The property manager and the housekeeper were wonderful, too. Our whole family would highly recommend this property!!
We loved how private and beautiful the property is! We loved having dinners outside with our 2 families and watching the sun set.
We also speedier having plenty of room to spread out.
Tucked in the Sintra hills, this quinta is perfect for those who want a quiet getaway close to Sintra and especially those who like to hike around the area. Ana and Diogo were great hosts and chefs. Highly recommend at least one dinner at the Quinta by them! Thank you.
Our family of nine, three generations, had the most wonderful, satisfying, and close two weeks. The Quinta is indescribably lovely. Anna, the house manager, was always in touch, kept the huge home pristine, and laundered and tidied the whole house, from bedrooms to kitchen to patios. The infinity pool was the focus of our grandchildren, and Lisbon, Cascais, and Big Beach compelled our grown children. All in all, the finest rental experience we have ever had. Thank you Anna, Diego, and all of Sintra.
Stayed 13 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 July 2025
Many thanks Sarah for your wonderful review. It was great hosting you and we hope to see you again sometime in tbe future.
This place is amazing. Very beautiful and special. Ana, the caretaker, anticipates what you need somehow, with minimal English, through her translation software.
Our group of 3 couples celebrating turning 60 had a wonderful 5 night stay. The property has a beautiful view, lush grounds, and well appointed bedrooms and common rooms. We had dinner prepared on 3 nights by Diogo, the house manager/chef, which allowed us to fully enjoy a cocktail hour sunset from the upstairs patio followed by dinner in the dining room. Overall, a five star experience.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Mar 2023
Many thanks Jeffrey for your kind review. It was a pleasure hosting you.
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
John A.
28 Feb 2019
Historic Oaisis in the Midst of History
Our group of eight from the U.S., stayed for two weeks at Quinta Sao Bento. It exceeded all of my expectations. The Quinta is tranquil, on beautiful grounds and yet close to everything in Sintra. Even with a large group there was plenty of space. The layout makes it such that everyone has privacy and their own bath and plenty of common areas. We especially enjoyed the upstairs living room with its fireplace and balcony overlooking the valley, the sea and Monserrate, with its majestic dome lit up at night. It felt like a fairy tale. We also had several dinners in the formal dining room with its coved brick ceiling. The 500 year old chapel was a marvel. I'm grateful for the staff allowing us inside to experience its frescoed ceiling and tiled altar. Coming from such a younger country, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience living in the midst of history and natural beauty. What we experienced was taking a step back in time while still having all the modern conveniences. The ten acres of grounds and fruit trees were a welcome respite to our long days of sightseeing. We were 15 minutes from the beaches and took in many a sunset at Praia Grande watching the waves. Ana was an excellent housekeeper and treated us so well during our stay. And Jonathan also put us in touch with Sofia Quintana who helped us arrange tours and oh so many other things including a cake for my 50th birthday and a trip to the dentist for my husband when he broke a tooth. She is a treasure and we wouldn't have had such a wonderful experience without her help. I can't rave enough about the beauty of this place and the impact it had on our journey. It was a beautiful sanctuary.
If you are coming for the first time I recommend arriving during the day or following someone to the house. The roads nearby are narrow and there is a narrow dirt road leading to the Quinta which can be hard to spot at first. You should make sure you have a rental car or be prepared to take a lot of taxis. But it is worth it!
The villa is very beautiful and being run by the lovely Anna and Diogo. It’s a bit out of the way and getting a transportation in Sintra can be tricky, but otherwise it’s an amazing place. Highly recommend.
We had an amazing stay in an amazing house with gorgeous surroundings. The house is spaceous and full of interesting details. Kitchen is modern. Everything is very well kept.
Spend the day in the pool, or on the terrace overlooking the Atlantic ocean. It just doesn't get any better than this, if you are looking for a relaxing holiday. This place really treats all your senses! If there will be a future opportunity, we will be returning guests for sure.
Fabulous Quinta in the countryside. Beautiful and historic property with gorgeous gardens. Working with the owner and his local English-speaking agent was very easy; they were incredibly accommodating, helpful, and responsive. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Betsey P.
30 Apr 2019
Multi generation family holiday
Quinta de Sao Bento is even more wonderful than the on-line photos indicate, which as experienced travelers know, is often the opposite! The house, grounds and gracious staff all exceeded our expectations. Our family ranged from 11 months to over 70 and all of us had plenty of space, two lovely terraces, a spacious kitchen, a wonderful library, a spacious drawing room, and a beautiful garden and pool. A quiet retreat from Sintra's busy scene.. What a special find. Obrigado!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2019
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Francisco D.
30 July 2018
Amazing
You will never find such an idilic house like this. We spent one of our favorite summers ever. Rooms are big, pool is amazing, service so kind. Everythink work out perfectly. I will defenetly come back, need to spend more time with that library...
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2018
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Linda G.
15 Aug 2017
Två fantastiska veckor
Hyrde detta hus i 2 veckor. Kändes som att bo i ett museum(i positiv bemärkelse) Allting fungerade bra, poolen var helt ljuvlig, trädgården fantastisk o huset underbart. Nära till Sintra med alla sevärdheter. Mycket nöjda.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Mabel C.
21 June 2017
Wonderful historic house
Perched on a hillside overlooking nearby villages, the exotic Monserrate Palace, and the ocean in the distance, Quinta Sao Bento is a gorgeous, tastefully restored historic country house. It was the perfect villa for our family and we had a truly wonderful stay. Quinta Sao Bento is peaceful and our time here felt restorative. We loved everything about Quinta Sao Bento, from the secluded location to the cozy and inviting rooms and terraces and the tasteful period decor. The grounds are lovely and the swimming pool enticed us each and every time after our long walks up and down Sintra's cobblestone streets. And Ana, the housekeeper, is so wonderful, a real treasure to be sure! There is only one problem with Quinta Sao Bento, you'll end up falling in love with it (we did) and having a very difficult time having to leave!
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Apr 2020
Hi Mabel,
Many thanks for your lovely review. We are delighted when the Quinta resonates with guests who appreciate the historic building and the Sintra setting. We look forward to welcoming you back at some stage in the future when you return to Europe.
Jonathan
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Judy C.
15 Oct 2015
Wonderful
Absolutely fabulous house with masses of charm. Incredibly relaxing. Gorgeous garden and views. The house
was also very clean and well maintained. There are lots of interesting places to visit in the vicinity although the center of Sintra is to be avoided in the peak .summer months. The pool is on the small side but the beaches are just 15 minutes drive away. I would certainly recommend this property. And perhaps return ourselves. This time for a bit longer! Judy Curtis, Paris, France.
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Apr 2020
Many thanks Judy for your kind words. You will be pleased to hear that the swimming pool has just gone through a renovation/expansion and is now 15m long by 4.5m wide with an infinity effect on the 16th Century fountain.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Gregor W.
31 Aug 2015
Stunning and relaxing.
A wonderful house in a magnificent garden. Everything feels personal and full of charme. Very comfortable rooms. Giant kitchen. Great outdoor seating. Nice pool. We'll be back.
About the host
Hosted by Jonathan
The house is run by a brother-sister team who grew up spending many magical holidays in this property. Their hope is that you love the property as much as they do!
What makes this property unique
Recognised as a place of beauty and seclusion dating back to the Roman era, Quinta Sao Bento is set on a lush hillside below the pine and mimosa woodlands of the Sintra National Park.
Surrounding the house is an impressive, well tended 10 acre garden with terraces of fruit trees and flowers, mature trees, a kitchen garden and a swimming pool. A restored Renaissance chapel beside the house sits on the site of a Roman temple.
Once a monastic retreat, the fertile hills of Quinta Sao Bento were terraced and farmed to provide produce for the monks who would come to convalesce at the Quinta from a monastery further up the mountain. These ancient terraces stretch out in several layers and now form open lawns and French gardens immediately in front of the house with a profusion of hydrangeas, geraniums, roses, lavender and exotic birds of paradise.
A rich variety of trees include lemon, orange, pear, fig and walnut and guests to the Quinta are welcome to eat any of the fresh fruit in season. The pool is sheltered and near an ancient spring, where remnants of Moorish frescoes can still be seen.
The lasting impression of friends and visitors to Quinta Sao Bento is the setting and how easy it is to stay and enjoy the gardens without ever having to leave.
An informal cook service can be provided by the Portuguese speaking house keeper if arranged in advance. For those arriving late at the Quinta, a light meal of home made soup, fresh bread, cheese and fruit is a popular option.
Guests staying at Quinta Sao Bento are given a welcome hamper on arrival and are welcome to gather any fresh produce in season from the garden, including figs, plums, lemons, oranges, tangerines, avocados, quince and walnuts.
Languages:
English, French, Portuguese
Premier Host
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