Penha Longa Resort is the most ambitious five-star property in the Sintra region — a 200-hectare estate built around a 14th-century Hieronymite monastery, set deep inside the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park between the mountain town of Sintra and the seaside resort of Cascais. Operated by Ritz-Carlton, the resort combines historic architecture, two championship golf courses, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and 194 rooms and suites in a forested setting that feels remote despite being just 25 km from Lisbon.
The estate's origins go back to 1355, when the Hieronymite Order founded a small monastery on the site. Over four centuries the property expanded into a complete monastic complex with cloisters, gardens, and a chapel — much of which survives today, carefully restored, and woven into the resort's architecture. The cloister is now a peaceful courtyard at the heart of the main building; the original chapel is still in occasional use for weddings.
Penha Longa operates as a destination resort rather than a transit hotel. Guests typically stay 2–4 nights and combine excursions to Sintra (Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate), the coast (Cabo da Roca, Cascais beaches), and on-site activities. The two golf courses — Atlantic (par 72) and Monastery (par 35) — are designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and host major European Tour events. The Six Senses spa offers a full menu of treatments inside the converted monastic wing.
Three restaurants are open to non-guests by reservation: LAB by Sergi Arola (Michelin-starred contemporary Mediterranean), Midori (refined Japanese), and Spices (Asian fusion). The wine cellar features Colares and Carcavelos wines from the surrounding region.
Direct shuttle service to Sintra Vila and Cascais runs throughout the day. Penha Longa is a 30-minute drive from Lisbon Airport.
Highlights
- 5-star Ritz-Carlton resort on a 200-hectare estate
- Inside Sintra-Cascais Natural Park — forested, peaceful, remote feel
- Built around a 14th-century Hieronymite monastery (restored)
- Two Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf courses (Atlantic + Monastery)
- Six Senses spa in the converted monastic wing
- LAB by Sergi Arola — 1 Michelin star, contemporary Mediterranean
- Direct shuttle to Sintra Vila and Cascais
- 30 minutes from Lisbon Airport; 8 km from Sintra historic centre
Amenities
✓ Two championship golf courses (Atlantic + Monastery, par 72 + par 35)
✓ Six Senses spa with thermal facilities, indoor pool, sauna, hammam
✓ Outdoor heated pool with poolside service (seasonal)
✓ Three restaurants: LAB by Sergi Arola (1 Michelin), Midori, Spices
✓ 24-hour fitness centre and yoga studio
✓ Free Wi-Fi throughout
✓ Free scheduled shuttle to Sintra Vila and Cascais
✓ Tennis courts and walking trails inside the estate
✓ Kids club and family-friendly programmes
✓ Concierge, valet parking, electric car charging
Room types
- Deluxe Room (garden view, 30 m²)
- Premium Room (forest view, 32 m²)
- Junior Suite (with separate sitting area, 50 m²)
- Penha Suite (60 m², lounge + bedroom)
- Royal Cloister Suite (80 m², historic monastery wing)
- Garden Villa (private garden, 110 m², for families)
Frequently asked questions
How far is Penha Longa from Sintra and Cascais?
The resort is in Linhó, almost exactly between the two — 8 km (15 min by car) to Sintra Vila and 8 km (15 min) to Cascais. From Lisbon Airport it's a 30-minute drive (30 km). The resort runs free scheduled shuttles to both Sintra and Cascais multiple times daily, which makes it a good base for guests who don't want to drive.
Is Penha Longa a good choice for visiting Pena Palace and Sintra?
Yes, with a caveat. The resort is 8 km from Sintra Vila and Pena Palace, so you'll need to take the shuttle or drive each day to explore. The trade-off: you stay in a much quieter, more luxurious property than the small boutique hotels in Sintra centre. If your priority is walking from your hotel into Sintra Vila each morning, choose a centre property (Tivoli Sintra, Lawrence's, etc.); if you want resort comfort + Sintra excursions, Penha Longa is ideal.
Is the spa open to non-guests?
Yes, by appointment. The Six Senses spa welcomes external visitors for treatments, although hotel guests have priority for booking and access to the thermal facilities. Day-spa packages and treatment-only options are available — call in advance to confirm availability, especially in summer.
Are the restaurants open to non-guests?
All three signature restaurants (LAB by Sergi Arola, Midori, Spices) welcome non-guests by reservation. LAB requires a reservation 5+ days in advance, especially for dinner. The wine list is exceptional. Smart-casual dress required.
What's included in the room rate?
Rates typically include breakfast (extensive buffet plus à la carte), use of the indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, and the shuttle to Sintra/Cascais. Spa treatments, golf, and the signature restaurants are billed separately. Check the specific rate plan — some seasonal packages include half-board or spa credits.