We hadn’t originally planned to spend a night in Sintra but thought it would be a good way to break up the trip from Porto to Lagos, as well as keep us from having to use one of our Lisbon days for a day trip to Sintra. We are so glad we ended up spending the night at Chalet Saudade.
Chalet Saudade is more of a bed and breakfast than a traditional hotel. Built in the 1890s and completely refurbished starting in 2009, this beautiful old home is full of charm. There are 15 different rooms, all named after trees: 4 superior suites, 1 family suite, 3 superior double rooms, 3 double/twin rooms, 3 standard double rooms, and 1 small double room. Each room is uniquely sized, shaped and furnished.
Though partially hidden by trees, the light blue house is charming and beautiful from the courtyard. The home is 6 stories and you enter on the 3rd floor so some rooms are located upstairs and some downstairs. There is a small gate on the side of the house leading to stairs that go to the lovely gardens around back.
When we walked into the ornately decorated lobby with its vintage furnishings and elegantly designed ceiling, I could tell that the boys were worried about the place. They haven’t stayed in any “historic” hotels and were definitely concerned that it might be lacking in modern amenities. But their fears were quickly allayed when we walked into the family suite. Yes, the room itself was obviously more than 100 years old but it was beautifully redone with contemporary furniture, gorgeous hardwood floors, and a lovely modern bathroom. And with a living room and a downstairs bedroom and an upstairs loft, it had tons of space for our family of 4.
The family suite was such a unique space. I loved all of the vaulted ceilings and the way they used the space. But the best part was the balcony. It had the most amazing views of Sintra. We sat at there in the evening and in the morning, just soaking in those views. It was incredible.
The chalet is owned by the same family that owns Café Saudade and breakfast at the cafe is included with your stay. Located a quick walk around the block, the charming cafe serves breakfast starting at 8:30. With your voucher from the hotel, you can choose anything off the extensive menu.
Two quick things of note: 1. the home has 6 stories and there is no elevator so be prepared to carry your bags and 2. as a family-run guesthouse, reception is only staffed from 9am to 7pm. (They are available via phone or WhatsApp and can get there within 5 minutes if needed.) Neither of these had an impact on our stay but are just things you should be aware of when booking.
We loved our stay at Chalet Saudade. It is a charming older home lovingly restored and the family room was an incredible space. The location is great and staying there is a truly unique experience.
