Perched on a cliff just 45 km from Lisbon, the charming fishing village of Ericeira seduces visitors with its heavenly beaches, laid-back vibe and picturesque town center.
In this article, we take you to discover this hidden gem of Portugal.
The assets of Ericeira: nature, culture and bohemian atmosphere
Ericeira is a preferred destination for those looking for an authentic getaway, far from the tourist crowds. Here are some of the assets that make Ericeira a must-visit place:
- Breathtaking landscapes : steep cliffs, fine sandy beaches and turquoise waters offer an idyllic setting for relaxing or practicing various water activities.
- A rich cultural heritage : the village has narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, where you can admire traditional Portuguese architecture and discover local customs.
- A bohemian atmosphere : Ericeira is renowned for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, which attracts artists and surfers from all over the world.
Ericeira’s must-sees: beaches, surfing and gastronomy
To fully enjoy your stay in Ericeira, here are some activities and discoveries not to be missed:
The beaches of Ericeira: natural gems for all tastes
The Ericeira coastline has more than 20 beaches, each with its own charm and peculiarities. Among the most beautiful, we can cite:
- south beach : a family beach with calm waters and a beautiful promenade.
- Fisherman’s Beach : located in the heart of the village, this beach is ideal for relaxing and observing the daily life of local fishermen.
- Ribeira d’Ilhas Beach : a surf spot world-famous, where the world surfing championship takes place every year.
Surfing in Ericeira: a paradise for surf enthusiasts
With waves suitable for all levels, Ericeira is considered one of the best surfing destinations in Europe. Here are some tips to make the most of this experience:
- Choosing the right beach : depending on your level, opt for suitable spots like Praia do Sul (beginners) or Praia da Ribeira d’Ilhas (experts).
- Take surf lessons : to progress quickly, consider enrolling in one of the many surf schools in the village.
- Respect safety rules : don’t forget to find out about the weather conditions and currents before jumping into the water.
Taste the local gastronomy
Ericeira is also a mecca for Portuguese gastronomy. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste local specialties such as:
- Fresh seafood : take advantage of the many seaside restaurants to enjoy freshly caught fish and shellfish.
- You were pastais de nata : these little custard flans are a real institution in Portugal.
- Green wine : this light and refreshing sparkling wine goes perfectly with summer meals.
How to get to Ericeira and where to stay?
To reach Ericeira from Lisbon, several options are available to you:
- By car : allow approximately 45 minutes of travel time via the A8 motorway or the N247 national road.
- And the bus : regular connections are provided between Lisbon and Ericeira (1h30 journey).
When it comes to accommodation, Ericeira offers a wide range of options, from hostels to luxury hotels to vacation rentals. Do not hesitate to book in advance to benefit from the best rates and guarantee your stay in this Portuguese paradise.