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Events, Sound & Light

Respect & Responsibility at Quinta da Bella Vista

 

At Quinta da Bella Vista, we value respect—for the reasons you chose Sintra and its magical tranquility, for your guests, for our neighbors and surroundings, and, of course, for the law.

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Legal Compliance on Sound Levels

 

As per Law no. 9/2007, dated January 17, sound levels must not exceed legal limits beyond the property lines. Specific dB(A) limits apply depending on the time of day.

 

To ensure compliance, sound measurements have determined that the maximum limit inside the Greenhouse is 88 dB(A), with short dynamic peaks of up to 98 dB(A).

  • The Greenhouse doors, windows, and roof must remain closed when dance music is playing.

  • The Estate reserves the right to monitor and regulate sound levels, including sub-bass control.

  • All music in the Greenhouse must be played through a pre-approved Advanced Sound Limiter (dBelectronics – Model CAP21).

  • Tampering with the limiter may result in music being stopped by authorities or the Estate, leading to forfeiture of the security deposit.

 

Curfew & Event Responsibilities

  • Music volume in the Greenhouse will be automatically reduced by 10 dB(A) at 11:30 PM and will end at 12:30 AM sharp.

  • The Event Planner is responsible for ensuring compliance with noise regulations and maintaining control of the event until all guests have departed.

  • Failure to comply may result in the forfeiture of the security deposit and, in extreme cases, event termination by regulatory authorities.

  • The Estate is not responsible for any losses incurred due to event interruption or cancellation resulting from non-compliance with sound restrictions.

 

Understanding Sound Levels at the Greenhouse

We understand that decibel levels can be confusing. Some guests have initially thought that 88 dB(A) would not be enough for dancing. However, this is not the case, as proven by previous events. 

  • 88 dB(A) for talking: Comparable to a loud conversation in a busy restaurant or street.

  • 88 dB(A) for music: Similar to a nightclub or concert environment, where you feel the rhythm and beats, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

  • Sound Energy & Perception: A 10 dB increase equals a tenfold increase in sound energy. So, 98 dB(A) is significantly louder than 88 dB(A).

 

The Advanced Sound Limiter ensures compliance while allowing guests to fully enjoy the music. Unlike standard limiters, it actively filters out ambient noise, meaning cheering, clapping, and conversations won’t trigger sound restrictions. Additionally, it only limits excessive levels sustained over time, ensuring smooth sound management without abrupt cutoffs.

 

Curfew & Late-Night Extensions

We have established a 2:00 AM curfew at the Adega based on experience, guest well-being, and staff logistics. The Adega is included only if the rental includes the Palacio and the Villas, or only by exception, if it is part of the particular package you will have agreed to. 

  • After 2:00 AM, most guests begin to wind down—extended parties often become unbalanced, with only a small group continuing late into the night.

  • If you however require additional time, the Palacio Adega may be available until later (max. 4:00 AM) (subject to availability and additional charges to cover among other extra security, staff overtime charges, and security guarantees, etc.).

 

Safety & Responsible Drinking

Please be mindful of your guests’ well-being and safety.

  • We strongly encourage you to arrange Ubers or transportation for guests.

  • Do not allow intoxicated guests to drive—ensuring their safety is paramount.

  • Any accidents or injuries, whether on or off the property, are the sole responsibility of the client and their guests.

 

The Estate assumes no liability for loss, damage, injury, or fatalities resulting from negligence or excessive alcohol consumption. Guests waive any claims against the Estate except in cases of willful misconduct.

 

Understanding the Sound Meter Readings

For transparency, we have three decibel meters for monitoring sound levels:

  1. Primary Meter (Green Border) – Directly linked to the sound limiter, with a microphone on the roof.

  2. Standalone Meter (Right Side of the Counter) – Independent, with a microphone placed near the speakers. Since the standalone meter is closer to the sound source, it may display higher readings than the official limiter. This is simply for reference and does not impact the set limits. 

  3. A portable, hand-held meter to establish factual information when and as needed.

Video Examples

You will notice that we have two decibel displays.
 
The decibel meter display on the left with the green frame (when looking at the Greenhouse with the back at the catering area) is the one connected to the limiter and the microphone is up on the roof (the "flashing" one with the green border).
 
The other decibel meter, on the right of the counter, is standalone and the microphone is right there on the box.  This is why the readings on the one on the right (the standalone) are usually higher, especially as all too often, the speakers are placed right next to it! This meter is purely as a way to have a second reading.

The display reading here is from the sound limiter (on the left of the console):

The display reading here is from the standalone reader with the microphone in the display box. 

This always makes it show higher readings.

​Please note that while the readings are in excess of the 98 dB(A) reading the music is not "cut off".

The "active" settings prevent the limiter from stopping the music.

It merely, unnoticeably reduces the volume if it exceeds the set points for a prolonged time. 

Lighting Restrictions

Due to the Quinta da Bella Vista Estate’s location within the UNESCO World Heritage National Park of Sintra—an area where minimizing light pollution is a priority—a strict lighting policy is in place. Only a limited number of dance lights are allowed, and no motorized or robotic spotlights may be directed upward, whether in the Greenhouse or outdoors. Additionally, strobe lights and searchlights are strictly prohibited. However, static and decorative lighting such as chandeliers, garland lights, and dress-overall installations are welcome, provided they do not contribute to excessive light pollution.

Smoking, Fire Restrictions

The Estate is strictly designated as a non-smoking property, with limited exceptions for pre-agreed outdoor areas such as the Lawn, Theater, Panorama Terrace, Palacio Pool, and other garden zones. These smoking restrictions apply equally to all guests, service providers, and subcontractors under the Client’s responsibility. In particular, the Greenhouse is a fire-sensitive zone with a wooden floor structure, and is therefore subject to a strict no-smoking, no-fire, and no-smoke policy. Open flames, pyrotechnics, sparkles, fire-throwers, and confetti or glitter cannons are prohibited across the entire Estate. Emergency exits must not be blocked and fire extinguishers cannot be moved. Violation of these rules will result in forfeiture of the Security Deposit and / or fines, and may lead to immediate termination of the event, with potential claims for damages. Given the Estate's location in a high fire-risk area within the Sintra National Park, the Client must regularly consult the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) website for current fire-risk levels and ensure full compliance with any fire-related prohibitions. The Estate is not liable for cancellations or restrictions imposed by authorities due to fire risks, and the Client accepts sole responsibility for obtaining any required permits and for covering any fines or penalties resulting from non-compliance. These obligations are contractually binding and must be strictly adhered to.

The Palacio Adega

The party doesn’t stop after hours!

 

If you've booked the entire Estate, including the Palacio and Villas, the Adega is yours to enjoy until 2:30 am. Otherwise, the Adega may be available for an additional charge, subject to availability and season.

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With no restrictions on volume, this intimate space can host up to 80 guests for standing or dancing, making it the perfect setting to continue your celebration long into the night. Not everyone will want to be inside, so circulation permits a bigger number of guests to enjoy this space. 

No music or robotic lights and effects are permitted outdoors on the Panorama Terrace. 

Enjoy!

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