Lawrence’s Hotel

Lawrence's Hotel is one of the most storied places to stay in Sintra. It was founded in 1764 by an Englishman and presents itself as the oldest hotel on the Iberian Peninsula, with a legend that Lord Byron began writing Childe Harold's Pilgrimage here in 1809. The building has sixteen rooms and suites, eleven rooms and five suites according to the hotel, some with fireplaces and each with its own decor, and it keeps a literary, old-fashioned feel with keys instead of plastic cards and polished oak floors instead of carpets. It sits in a wooded valley at Rua Consiglieri Pedroso, only a few steps from the village centre, which means the National Palace and the village's cafes are an easy walk. The hotel has a restaurant that it calls famous, serving dinner and lighter outdoor meals, and a forest terrace for sitting out in good weather. It is intimate and characterful rather than flashy, ideal for travellers who want atmosphere and history within walking distance of the village. Staff can help with taxis and advice on timing your palace visits.

Location and getting around. The hotel is on the edge of the historic centre, a short walk from the National Palace and the lanes of the village, and a ten to fifteen minute walk from the train station and the bus stops. That is a real advantage in Sintra, where driving is restricted. For Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, take the 434 bus from the village or a taxi, and for Quinta da Regaleira, you can walk in about fifteen to twenty minutes. The setting is a wooded valley, so expect some slopes, and bring a small bag instead of a large suitcase if you are arriving on foot.

Rooms and atmosphere. With sixteen rooms and suites, the hotel is small enough that service feels personal. Rooms differ in size and decor, and some have fireplaces, so ask for the room category that suits your plans. The hotel's description does not list breakfast or parking, so check the official page before you book. In winter, the fireplaces and the restaurant make it a cosy base, and in summer the forest terrace offers shade. Quiet rooms are likely given the valley location, but request one away from the restaurant if you are a light sleeper.

Who it suits. This is a hotel for couples, literary travellers and anyone who prefers a historic boutique stay in the village to a large resort. It is not ideal for families with several small children, since the rooms are limited and the building is old, with stairs. Book early for spring and autumn weekends, and plan your timed Pena slot first, then choose your hotel dates. Rates sit in the upper mid-range, but the location, the history and the restaurant make it good value for a night or two in Sintra.