The romantic hideaway cottage is a perfect little jewel in the royal crown that is Sintra. I confess that it was love at first sight when I first saw the photos of the cottage on this website; when we arrived we found that reality far exceeded our expectations. The cottage was charming, the gardens beautiful, and the view absolutely stunning. Set into a terraced hillside, the cottage has a panoramic view of the valley below. It is a quiet, tranquil oasis filled with birdsong and the occasional call from the wild peacock that lives in the nearby hills. Yet only a 3 minute walk up quaint cobbled lanes and you find yourself in the bustling historic centre of Sintra, adjacent to the National Palace, with all its shops and restaurants and where public transportation to other historical sights can easily be found. The cottage is also a short 5 to 10 minute walk to the fabulous and mysterious Quinta da Regaleira.

On a practical level, the cottage offered everything we needed for an enjoyable stay. The same degree of thoughtfulness and attention to detail that went into the design and construction of the cottage, Carole brings to ensuring the comfort and well-being of her guests. From the warm welcome, including a nice bottle of wine, to daily stocking the fridge with fresh breakfast provisions, Carole truly pampered us. Her restaurant recommendations were superb and her tips for visiting the sights were very helpful.

Our only caution is that parking in the largo can be a little challenging. But Carole assures her guests a spot and with some extra care & attention to account for the narrow lane ways, it can be done. But public transportation to Sintra and the major historical sights is easily accessible, including a delightful tram that goes to a lovely nearby beach, Praia das Macas. So unless one wants to venture a little further afield as we did, a rental car isn't necessary to fully enjoy beautiful Sintra and its environs. In fact, we often found it difficult to summon up the motivation to leave the cottage each day, as we enjoyed lingering out on the terrace with our morning coffee.

We would love to go back some day. We most highly recommend the cottage at Cinco in Sintra as an ideal romantic getaway for two or as a meditative retreat for one. Carole has set the bar very high indeed and it is difficult to think we will ever find an airbnb experience to surpass this one. Thank you to Carole & Stuart for making your beautiful cottage available to us. We will always treasure the memories of our week in wonderful Sintra!!