A charming seaside resort, located just an hour from Lisbon, is an ideal spot for relaxation this summer, boasting a Bohemian ambiance.

A charming seaside resort, located just an hour from Lisbon, is an ideal spot for relaxation this summer, boasting a Bohemian ambiance.

Nestled along the Portuguese coast, Ericeira offers an enticing blend of surfing, culture, gastronomy, and scenic heritage sites, making it a compelling destination for varied interests. This charming fishing port, home to fewer than 7,000 inhabitants, is located just 45 minutes from Lisbon and is renowned as a surfing paradise.

Surfing in Ericeira

As a World Surfing Reserve, Ericeira boasts a diverse range of beaches catering to all abilities. From powerful reef breaks to mellow longboarding waves, there are over a dozen different surf spots suitable for surfers of all levels. Ribeira d'Ilhas beach, one of the most famous surf spots in Portugal and the world, attracts both seasoned pros and enthusiastic beginners alike. For those new to surfing, surf schools in Ericeira offer introductory courses to get you started.

Exploring Ericeira

Central Ericeira is a delightful maze of cobblestone streets lined with picturesque blue-and-white houses, perfect for leisurely exploration and sampling Portuguese pastries like pastel de nata. The town's historic centre offers a charming snapshot of traditional Portuguese life, with an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

For those seeking relaxation, Praia dos Pescadores offers dramatic ocean views and a seaside ambiance ideal for unwinding or photography. The sunsets at Canastra restaurant, with its enviable cliff-side location, are truly breathtaking.

Gastronomy in Ericeira

Ericeira's food scene is another highlight, with an excellent selection of restaurants catering to all tastes. Notable dining options include marisqueira restaurants such as Mar a Vista, known for their fresh seafood, and brunch spots like Dear Rose Cafe. For a more casual dining experience, Bowls Surf Cafe and Avo Restaurante are popular choices.

At night, Adega Bar is a popular spot for drinks and live music events.

Wellness and Relaxation

Visitors seeking relaxation amid Ericeira's energetic atmosphere can immerse themselves in wellness activities, including yoga and spa experiences.

Nearby Attractions

Azenhas do Mar, a picturesque cliffside village, is a short drive from Ericeira and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For those interested in history, a trip to the Mafra National Palace, a vast 18th-century Baroque palace with extensive rooms, bells, and Portugal's oldest library, is a must-visit. The open-air Jose Franco village, showcasing traditional local culture, is another nearby attraction.

The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, half an hour's drive from Ericeira, is home to the Pena Palace, a colorful castle built upon a hill, and Cabo da Roca, the most westerly point on the European continent.

For wine enthusiasts, Quinta de Sant'Ana, a family-run, eco-responsible vineyard, is a 20-minute drive from Ericeira. The vineyard offers opportunities to discover local wines such as Arinto, a traditional Portuguese white variety with lemony notes.

With its dream backdrop of golden sand beaches, ochre-coloured cliffs, lush green vegetation, and turquoise waters, Ericeira provides a memorable holiday destination. A week in Ericeira may not be enough to explore all its beaches, making it an invitation for return visits.

1. Elevate your lifestyle with a visit to Ericeira, a charming destination that offers not only world-class surfing but also has a picturesque home-and-garden setting along the Portuguese coast.
2. After a day of en-vols at one of Ericeira's surfing beaches, unwind with travel to Azenhas do Mar or the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, both nearby attractions showcasing stunning landscapes ideal for relaxation.

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