Mars is a very kind and attentive host. She immediately responded to issues that we had and communication was excellent. When the apartment wasn't ready at check-in, she graciously offered to treat us to brunch at a local cafe where we waited for it to be ready.
PROS:
-fantastic location
-walk to the Cascais beach, shopping and restaurants in the historic city centre within minutes
-beautiful architecture and art in the building
-beautiful views of neighboring rooftops and the sea
-wonderful sea breezes through many windows
-very safe neighborhood
-coffee, muffins, croissants, and cheese offered in the common area every morning were very helpful and appreciated.
CONS:
-Dusty surfaces / dust and hair on the floors.
-Parking is very difficult. During our one week stay, we only got lucky with free parking in front of the apartment two times. Otherwise we drove around the neighborhood for paid street parking. Because there is a maximum parking time, we were regularly setting alarms to go put more money in. And when we did get lucky and parked in front of the apartment, someone double parked in front of us and blocked us in. We had to knock on neighbor doors to find the person to move their car.
-We were only given one towel per person for a one week stay. Even if we washed them, because we have to hang them to dry, they would not be dry by the next day. It takes several days for a wet towel to dry on a drying rack, especially if you are there during winter / rainy season.
-The sofa in the living room has completely fallen apart and is covered with a blanket.
-In the kitchen, there was only one very old sponge for hand washing dishes and wiping off the countertops. There were no garbage bags, no washcloths, and no paper towel.
-General instructions regarding where to put trash, how to operate the climate control, the projector / audio visual equipment, and the oven would have been helpful. The oven controls were completely rubbed off and we were unable to use it.
-The beds in the loft are squeaky and uncomfortable and the stairs to get to them are VERY steep. You can see the "railing" situation in the photos. This would be difficult for small kids, especially in the middle of the night. But the views and fresh air is amazing!
Overall we really loved our time in Cascais. Despite some of the shortcomings of the apartment, Mars is a delightful host.
Lastly, if you like Italian food, you absolutely MUST visit De Benedictis in the city centre. The 15 - 20 minute drive to Guincho Beach was the highlight of the trip. Sintra is also a must do! So much to explore, you won't be disappointed by the area.