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Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool

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Pool
Exterior
Exterior
Exterior
Dining

Reviews

9.6 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
5 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 101291.7 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
Sintra
  • Place, Sintra Mountains
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Monserrate Palace
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Quinta da Regaleira
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Lisbon (LIS-Humberto Delgado)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1 - Cook

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 2 - Edla

1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3 - Wellesley

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4 - Honorius

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 5 - Southey

2 Single Beds

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom

Shower only

Bathroom

Toilet

Bathroom

Bathroom

Bathroom

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool

Set in the beautiful, historic, UNESCO protected mountain range of Sintra, Quinta Matalva is a private villa located in a secluded valley with pine forest backdrops and views of the coast down the Serra. The Quinta is accessed down an off-road track that leads to only 4 Quintas ensuring seclusion and calm.

Quinta Matalva has three bedrooms in the main house and a further two in a cottage so it's perfect for a small group renting the main house only or a group of 10 who can rent the cottage too. The main house has a wide terrace which is ideal for barbecues, drinks and outside dining. Through a gate from this terrace are steps down to a private swimming pool with another terrace and sun lounges. From the main house, walk through a colonnade to the cottage which has a separate kitchen, sitting room and terrace with a dining area, ideal for anyone in the group requiring privacy such as a family with young children or grandparents. From the entire property there are superb views of the historic Dome and forests of the Palacio de Monserrate on the opposite hill and terraces of oranges, lemons and fig trees.

For larger parties, the neighbouring house, Quinta Sao Bento, with 5 bedrooms and a pool can sometimes be made available

Golf details: The following golf courses are approximately 15-30 minutes drive from Quinta Matalva. Golf do Estoril, Estoril is one of the most traditional and classic clubs in Portugal, host to Portuguese Open. 18 hole, par 69, 5238 metres 9 hole, par 34, 2350 metres. Tel: 351-1-4680176 / 4680054. Fax: 468-2796. Golf Estoril-Sol, Linho 'One of the most beautiful 9 hole courses in Europe.' 9 holes, par 31 - 1749 metres. Tel: 351 1 924 03 31. Fax: 351 1 924 03 31.

Penha Longa Golf Club, Sintra. A quality course with spectacular scenery. 18 hole par 72 championship course, 6228 metres; 9 hole, par 35, 2550 metres. Tel: 351 1 924 00 14. Fax: 351 1 924 90 22. Quinta da Marinha, Cascais. Beautiful location overlooking Atlantic Ocean. 5 par 5's, 6 par 3's 18 holes par 71, 6014 metres. Tel: 351 1 486 9881/9. Fax: 351 1 486 9032 486 9159. Quinta da Beloura, Sintra. Designed by William Roquemore Jr. Six lakes on course add to interest. 18 holes par 73, 5817 metre.

Guide and Catering services: These are available upon request.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
A gardening team may come on Fridays and this might create some noise- so it is a good day to plan to go to the beach or do another outing

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether 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
Property Registration Number 67300/AL
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Sintra

Located in Galamares, a neighbourhood in Sintra, this villa is in a rural area and by the sea. Pena Park and Casal Santa Maria are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Tapada Nacional de Mafra Park and Sintra Mountains. Travelling with kids? Consider Sintra Science Center and Olga Cadaval Cultural Center. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Sintra

What's nearby

  • Sintra Mountains - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Monserrate Palace - 18 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Pena Park - 4 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Quinta da Regaleira - 5 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Sintra Science Center - 6 min drive - 3.0 km

Getting around

  • Sintra Station - 13 min drive
  • Galamares Tram Stop - 16 min walk
  • Cascais (CAT) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Piriquita - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Café Paris - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Tascantiga - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Paço Real - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Dona Maria - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool?

As of 6 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool on 9 Mar 2026 start from £512, 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 Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Matalva Main House and Cottage- stylish and secluded villa, with views and pool located?

This family-friendly Sintra villa is located by the sea, within 2 mi (3 km) of Sintra Mountains, Sintra Science Center and Monserrate Palace. Quinta da Regaleira and Sao Martinho Church are also within 2 miles (3 km). Galamares Tram Stop is 16 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 22 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 22 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 22 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 22 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay, beautiful house with amazing views and sunsets.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family LOVES this villa. The comfort, infrastructure, look/feel of the house and the exterior views and serenity are all exceptional. It has plenty of bedrooms, supported by a separate but only steps away cottage. All amenities were cared for, and the onsite staff were responsive and very caring. It may be a little hard to find at first, and the eventual dirt road you must descend to get to the front gate should be driven with care, but it's more than well worth it! We were in and out of there and pros at getting back to the Villa and navigating the area and the dirt road access almost instantly. Had a fantastic stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sharon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house in Sintra

Beautiful location Peaceful and elegant Thoroughly enjoyed my stay
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jose F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sintra stay

Beautiful property in beautiful setting and impeccably decorated.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Courtney B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

Our group of friends and family had an absolutely wonderful time here! Jonathan and Diogo were extremely responsive and went above and beyond for us. The property is beyond gorgeous - private and peaceful with beautifully maintained grounds. We loved it!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jess B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house

The house is beautiful and spacious with the most incredible views. It's pretty remote which is great for a group and a fantastic base for exploring. We would love to come back!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Fionnuala O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay in Sintra

The house was fabulous. Beautiful views from the patio and pool. Such a relaxing and comfortable house to stay at and so close to Sintra and all its historic sites. We walked to the Palace de Monserrate from the house. Colares was great for local food shopping and plenty of restaurants nearby to enjoy an evening meal. We hope to return again one day soon.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Difficult entry road, beautiful location, could be updated, helpful staff.

This is a very beautiful location and the house is laid out very well. The furnishings, kitchen, and baths could use some updating. The housekeeper and the chef were excellent. The road down to the house from the main road required some patience and skill.
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary B., Washington DC USA

Country hillside treasure

Overall, this is a lovely house situated in a spectacular setting near Sintra and the cute nearby town Colares and beaches. The pictures are accurate and we ate out on the terrace almost every night, bc it was so pleasant! However, it is quite remote inasmuch as it is down a long, narrow gravel road and it's about a 15-20 minute drive from Sintra. The hosts were very accommodating. Their next door property, Quinta Sao Bento, is utterly spectacular. In sum, this is a charming house in a beautiful setting up in the Sintra hills.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2018

8/10 Good

Alex W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Firstly , the location as far as view and ambience go is fantastic, The cottage is nice but not as well appointed as the house so best to treat it more like extra bedrooms and a bit of a chill out space rather than a second property of equal quality to the main house.The access road is steep, narrow, windy and a mix of gravel or cobbles but the taxi bus managed OK as did we on fully laden motorbikes and hire cars so its not really anything to worry about.One or two issues with doors and windows not being easy to open or close and maybe the bathrooms could do with refreshing but on the whole the house was light, bright, comfy, airy and well appointed.the only negative really was that the small B&B / boutique hotel next door had a couple of pool parties, one of which went on till 4 or 5 in the morning. Not in the control of our property owner but we paid a lot for the peace and tranquility whish was spoiled on a couple of occasions. On the whole this is a beautiful spot though and the majority of the time was relaxing and enjoyable.The road to Sintra is a little awkward as its partly one way meaning its about 30 mins to get to Sintra but only 5 minutes back. Not a problem just needs factoring into journeys. Use the Supermercado Atlantico for your daily needs, its close and well stocked.Also really convenient base to explore Mafra, Cascais and the beaches.On balance we would recommend the house and the owner who was responsive and gave us great tips.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Irina P., Rostock

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wundervolle Villa

Die Villa ist sehr grün und ruhig gelegen. Perfekt um Sintra und die Umgebung zu erkunden. Jonathan und Diego waren stets ansprechbar bei Rückfragen. Wir haben uns sehr wohl gefühlt. Besten Dank!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful holiday home

We had a great stay in this beautiful home. It was very clean, a great layout for our family and friends, plenty of space, and a great location within a couple blocks walk to the most family friendly beach in Lagos. The beach has 2 great places to get a good meal or take away from the beach bar. The beach has lovely tide pools at low tide our younger kids enjoyed! The location is a short drive/bike ride/uber for going into the old town area of Lagos and for hiking around the cliffs. We will definitely consider again for our next beach holiday.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anastasia D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great villa, perfect for large groups

Lovely villa in a very secluded area, the communication and check in process were seamless. It was very clean and the garden is absolutely incredible. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Derek B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Traditional house in stunning location

We enjoyed a fantastic family reunion in this gorgeous yellow house. The location is truly magnificent with views across wild forest to the Atlantic coastline. It is the perfect place to explore the astonishing palaces in the Sintra hills and just a 20 minute drive from wild Atlantic beaches.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Harriet G., Washington DC

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What's not to love here?

Beautiful setting, helpful people when questions arose, great escape and great place for large families.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Pilar R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Summer 2020

We stayed at Quinta Matalva for two weeks and loved it. Everything was spotlessly clean, the house was in a very quiet location and we slept really well. The kitchen is well equipped and we barbequed most nights. The owners greeted us with fresh cheese, bread and milk as well as a wonderful bottle of red. We took long walks in the woods surrounding the house and refreshing swims by the pool. The weather in Sintra is never too hot so we didn’t use the airconditioners. Do bring bug spray as mosquitos come out at night and if you grill you’ll need it. If you have very young children, the staircase in the main house looks tricky but a safety gate can be installed and I saw one in the closet. Anna the housekeeper lives nextdoor and is always available for help. She often brought us fresh vegetables from the garden. The beds were firm but comfortable and our line s fresh and changed every week. We had a lovely time!
Stayed 11 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jamie S., Auckland, New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house with everything you needed

We had a wonderful week in Sintra at this beautiful house. It had everything you needed and Anna came around most days with delicious fruit & vegetables from her garden, we were totally spoiled. Would absolutely stay here again.

8/10 Good

Olivier C., Nantes

De qualité, mais difficile d'accès.

La maison est très isolée. Pour y parvenir, il faut remonter une route étroite en double sens sur plus de 3 km puis descendre un chemin en terre sur environ 1 km. Ne pas oublier que l'on est à Sintra ! Finalement, tout se mérite car la maison est de belle qualité avec une vue très dégagée. Piscine agréable même si non chauffée. Climatisation présente dans les chambres (nous ne l'avons pas utilisée car les nuits restent fraiches sur Sintra). Terrasse très agréable pour manger. Les propriétaires sont attentifs à vos besoins dès la réservation. Le "guide maison" mis à disposition est très bien fait et met en avant nombre de choses à réaliser à proximité. Un point à améliorer sur la vaisselle qui pourrait être un peu plus soignée et nombreuse (toujours les mêmes problèmes des poêles abimées et du manque de verres que nous retrouvons régulièrement dans les locations...). L'ensemble reste de très bonne facture.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

4/10 Poor

Jumel N.

Piscine non entretenu durant le séjour éclairage chambres et couloirs HS

Belle maison mais manque d entretien
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Marley B.

Exceeding Expectations in Beauty and Comfort

Quinta da Matalva turned out to be the perfect choice for three couples who wanted privacy but also the appropriate spaces for being together at meals and other times of relaxation. The design, layout, finish, and furnishing of the rooms not only matches what is shown in the property's pictures, but the lived-in comfort and charm of the spaces, from bedrooms to living and dining areas, is exceptional. We were able to take meals on the terrace (weather permitting) and in the more formal dining room, and spend many pleasant hours in conversation in front of a welcoming fireplace that projected comforting warmth as the early October evenings grew colder after the sun went down. The kitchen was also extremely well outfitted and laid out for making meals for our group. The bedrooms and bathrooms were also most comfortable and furnished to a high standard. All in all, Quinta da Matalva is everything that is described, and much,much more. As a group we couldn't have been happier with this property and the only complaint might be that it was too inviting so that we would get late starts to our daily touring of the many exceptional heritage sites and beaches within an easy driving distance. Sintra certainly deserves its reputation as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape, and while the number of tourists at different sites can be intimidating depending on the time of day, the many historic properties nearby the villa, are quite remarkable in their beauty and in the professionalism with which they are interpreted and managed. Ranging from the National Palace of Sintra, dating back to the thirteenth century and associated with Portugal's earliest monarchs, to the highly eccentric Quinta da Regaleira, an elaborate tribute to the brilliant but highly esoteric twelve-year collaboration of Carvalho Monteiro and Luigi Manini in the two decades before the Great War, the properties of Sintra are all worth a serious visit, which can take at least a half a day each. The beaches are also well worth visiting as is Lisbon, which is a short train ride away. Quinta da Matalva is an outstanding base from which to tour all of these places and more, and the setting could not be more beautiful and relaxing. Our main regret was having only one week to enjoy both the property and the surrounding sites. One should stay two weeks. Also, visitors should be prepared for narrow roads and some challenging traffic. A longer stay also allows you to adapt better to the driving.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tommi V.

Wonderful place and staff

Thanks for the wonderful stay! We had reserved the barn, but upgraded to the main house on last minute. When we arrived, the housekeeper was waiting for us with fireplace on and a first-aid supply of food and beverages, as a free compliment. That was a lovely thing, we needed it after long flights and late-evening journey through narrow roads of beautiful Sintra. The whole stay was great as well. The views were magnificent, and the house was spacious and had everything we needed. Whenever we had any problems, the hosts and housekeeper helped us promptly. The town of Sintra is probably difficult to drive and park while peak summer months, but we travelled off-season and it was easier. It’s an absolutely beautiful place, strongly recommended. Also the nearby towns and attractions are really nice - Matalva had listed their favorites for visitors. We are a Finnish couple aged 35, with two kids age 3 and ½ years. - tommi
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Cedric N.

Superb villa, outstanding location and good value.

If you value calm, nature and great view on the surroundings, then this house is for you. You will have a view over several shades of green who end up with the blue of the sea. You will need a car to go anywhere but calm and isolation come at this small price. The interaction with the owner was great, as well as with Ana, the local housekeeper, most helpful. The house has a great garden and the house has a note from owner "feel free to explore and pick up any fruit you would like". The amenities are also very good. We rented both houses and have appreciated the flexibility of the houses and their amenities.

About the host

Hosted by Jonathan

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Languages:

English, French, Portuguese

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