Prior to our arrival, we questioned whether we might be staying too long (4 days) in Sintra. However, as soon as we stepped onto the grounds of Cinco, we knew we had made the right decision to stay there for those four days. It was magical! The location in Sintra is perfect, the views are breathtaking and the guesthouse was charming and very comfortable. We actually felt like we had our own home in Portugal -- even just for a few days. Carole and Stuart were very welcoming and helpful. We walked to all the castles in the area and easily took a bus to Cascais/Estoril for a day trip. There was nothing about Cinco or Sintra that we didn't absolutely love!

Cinco is set in a beautiful walled garden perched high on the hillside in Sintra. It has stunning views, character and charm. Carol makes you feel so comfortable and relaxed, you wont want to leave. She offers fetch you from the airport which is so convenient. She remained relaxed and calm even when my husbands plane was delayed four times. The pool is fabulous and the cottage is very comfortable. Carol stocks the fridge with fresh ingredients daily so you can make breakfast when you like. Her freshly squeezed orange juice and homemade jam is so delicious.

En route from Amarante to Algarve, we decided not to stay at Penha Longa as usual but to follow the recommendation for Sintra on Tripadvisor. What a good decision.

Carole and Stuart could not have made us feel more welcome. Their generosity in stocking the apartment with essentials was much appreciated. We immediately felt right at home and it was a shame that we had to go out for dinner.

One word of advice – do follow Carole’s recommendations and don’t go your own way as we did. The worst meal we have ever had anywhere in Portugal (see separate review). Very surprising given the excellent reviews on Tripadvisor from other visitors. Perhaps we were there on the wrong night as it was the Portuguese Motorcycle Grand Prix weekend.

An excellent stopover and thoroughly recommended.

Have you ever wondered what coming home is like, but realising that this is not your home.
Welcome to Cinco, where Carole and Stuart have created this magical place, and where you are so warmly and sincerely welcomed. The apartment had a large bathroom, generous kitchen with washer and dryer, and blue and white kitchen table. Lovely fresh bedroom and a lovely living room that opened out to a terrace. The views, particularly at night with the valley lights twinkling like a sparkling carpet were just magical.
My husband had a significant birthday while we were there, and Carol so kindly made for us a special treat! How kind and thoughtful.
It rained while we were in Sintra but it didn't matter at all. We were coming home to a dry and very special place, and Jack, the delightful cat always welcomed us home.
I cannot recommend this place enough. Carole and Stuart are to be congratulated on making this a very special and unique place.