Quinta de São Thiago

The Space
LOCATION
3km from the romantic town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, 7km from the Atlantic Coast beaches and 30km (45 mins by car) from the capital city of Lisbon.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This stunning house dates back to the 16th Century and was once a rest place of monks and pilgrims as they travelled through the Sintra hills visiting the many chapels they found on their way. When amidst the silence and serenity which surrounds the Quinta, it is clear why the monks chose such a location as their sanctuary.

The house nestles on a hillside which stretches from the historic town of Sintra to the East, beloved of kings and poets, with its fairytale palaces,impressive manor houses, boutiques, cafés and restaurants all the way to the Atlantic Ocean to the West with its many beautiful beaches and watersport facilities. This privileged location allows visitors to be close to all amenities and places of historical and cultural interest but at the same time provides the perfect retreat where guests can enjoy peace and serenity in a beautiful setting.

The views from most of the guest rooms are spectacular. Nothing seems to intrude on the lush green lanscape except for the sparkling and inviting blue of the swimming pool below and the ornate dome of the exotic Monserrate Palace towering over the treetops in the distance. The night sky, illuminated only by lights from the Palace and the twinkling of the stars, is truly magical.

The extensive grounds are not to be missed. Guests are invited to take a stroll over the lawns to a shaded seat or corner or along the winding paths, past many interesting and exotic plants and trees down to the tennis court below. Or they can simply relax by the pool and marvel at the scene, the beauty and the silence.

On entering the house, it is clear that this is not an ordinary hotel or guest house but rather a home, with a heart and a soul and a story to tell. Family photographs and personal items are on display throughout, creating an authentic, warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Quinta has welcomed several royal visitors and film stars over the years as well as hosted debutant balls, film sets and informal, memorable parties. Burt Lancaster wrote of his time here:

“I am sitting here in another time – another century – just discovering a peace and calm that is like magic – it’s a new experience for me, and perhaps I will be permitted to come back to see if it is really there and not an illusion.”

THE OWNERS
Guests at Quinta de São Thiago speak of the warmth and hospitality of their hosts and of how they are welcomed and treated as friends. The owners stress that it is their goal to ensure that their guests enjoy a relaxed, comfortable and unforgettable stay.

On arrival, guests are offered a welcome drink which they can enjoy wherever they feel more comfortable,whether that be in the garden while taking in the magnificent scenery, in the living room by the fire or in their own bedrooms for more privacy.

GUEST FACILITIES
Bedrooms:
The Quinta offers 8 bedrooms which include standard rooms, superior rooms and suites. The rooms are traditionally and individually furnished, in keeping with the rest of the house and most have a view of the gardens and pool. All have en suite bathrooms with the traditional Portuguese tiles.

Breakfast:
Breakfast is served each morning from 8:30am to 11:00am in the main dining room with its impressive vaulted ceiling. Breakfast includes bread, toast, coffee, tea, cereals, ham, various cheeses, butter, jams, yogurts, fruit and fresh homemade cakes.

Public Rooms:
Guests can relax in the various living rooms. TV and WIFI are available as well as a warming fire on cooler days.

The impressive library is definitely worth a visit with its floor to ceiling book shelves housing the Braddell family’s personal collection, acquired over several generations.There is also a grand piano in the corner. Guests may be lucky enough to be treated to their very own private piano recital by the owner of the house, Mrs Maria Teresa Braddell.

The house also boasts its own private chapel which is consecrated and is where 3 generations of family celebrations have been held including weddings and baptisms.

Gardens:
The extensive gardens are there to be enjoyed and explored.
The swimming pool offers a welcome focus on the hotter days of Summer.
A tennis court is available to guests in the lower garden.

Guest Access
You’ll have the villa to yourself.

Other Things To Note
Ask about our all inclusive package. (extra cost)