The apartment was very clean, and exactly as was described/pictured. It was an excellent base for us (as we had a rental car) for exploring Sintra, Lisbon, and the coast from Cabo da Rocha, to Penieche and even as far north as Nazare. The local Pria das Macas has a very nice beach (with nearby public pools) and a good number of shops and restaurants, all within walking distance of Maria's apartment. In case you need groceries, most local supermarket/grocery shops close by 8 pm. only a few, like Atlantico in Colares, close at 9 pm.
Sintra is about 25-30 min drive away form Maria's place. When driving into Sintra, it's best to just park your car at Sintra train station (it's free) then take the #434 bus, or one of the hop-on-hop-off tours, all of which operate from the Sintra train station and visit whatever no. of palaces, or if local weather is not to your liking, take a train into Lisbon instead.
The weather in this area can change quickly. Mist and fog is common especially in the evening, overnight, and well into the morning. Sintra's Moorish castle, and Pena Palace can become enveloped in mist/fog at any time.
Sintra proper is a lovely town, well worth exploring, or a casual stroll. Spending a week at Maria's place, we managed to drive up the coast as far north as Nazare, made several trips into Lisbon, and several days visiting various sights in and around Sintra. We definitely recommend Maria's place, and would stay there again.