Surrounding Area

Ericeira and the surrounding area

Discover the versatility of the Portuguese coast.

Our villa is located close to Ericeira. From our location, you can quickly discover a wonderful combination of beaches, the sea, nature, culture, and authentic Portugal.

Whether you come to surf, take long walks along the coast, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, or discover Portuguese life and culture, there is something for everyone.

Ericeira – the seaside village

Ericeira is a charming former fishing village featuring white and blue houses, narrow streets, lively squares, and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The village has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Stroll through the town center, have a coffee on a terrace, enjoy fresh fish or seafood, and end the day with a beautiful sunset by the sea.

Ericeira is also known worldwide for surfing. The coast forms a World Surfing Reserve, featuring various beaches and surf spots along a coastline of approximately 8 kilometers.

Beaches

Along the coast around Ericeira, you will find many different beaches. Ranging from small, sheltered coves to beaches with powerful waves.

Surf

You don't have to be an experienced surfer to enjoy the waves at Ericeira. The various beaches offer conditions suitable for different skill levels.

Do you want to give it a try yourself? There are several surf schools in Ericeira where you can take lessons or rent equipment.

Even if you don’t surf yourself, it’s fun to drive to Ribeira d’Ilhas or one of the other surf beaches and watch the surfers from the shore.

Walking along the coast

The area around Ericeira is beautiful to explore on foot. Walk along the cliffs, through small villages, and along paths with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

A wonderful way to experience the area is, for example, by taking a walk from São Lourenço towards Ribeira d’Ilhas or along the coast towards São Julião. There are various hiking routes where nature, the coast, and the history of Ericeira come together.

Hint: Wear good shoes and bring plenty of water. The combination of cliffs, sand, and changes in elevation makes some coastal paths somewhat more challenging.

Mafra – culture and history

A short distance from Ericeira lies Mafra, best known for the impressive Palácio Nacional de Mafra.

Nature lovers can also visit the Tapada Nacional de Mafra. This former royal hunting ground is now a nature and recreation area where you can encounter animals such as red deer, fallow deer, and wild boars.

A nice change of pace after a few days at the beach.

Sobreiro – a piece of old Portugal

Near Mafra lies the village of Sobreiro, where you will find the unique Aldeia Típica de José Franco.

This unique open-air museum was created by artist and potter José Franco. He built a typical Portuguese village depicting traditional life and old crafts. It features small workshops, houses, shops, and scenes from Portuguese village life of the past.

Lisbon

A day trip to the capital

Lisbon is also easily accessible from our villa for a day trip.

The Portuguese capital has a unique atmosphere. Wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, discover the impressive squares and buildings, take the famous yellow tram, and enjoy a coffee or lunch along the way.

Lisbon is a city to discover without a rigid schedule. Stroll through the various neighborhoods, enjoy the view over the Tagus, and let yourself be surprised by the many small shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Hint: Set off early and combine a visit to the historic center with Belém. At the end of the day, you can return to the peace and quiet of the villa on the coast.

Cascais

Sea, promenade, and a lively atmosphere

Cascais is located on the coast, west of Lisbon, and is a delightful destination for a day trip.

The former fishing village has an atmospheric center, narrow streets, shops, restaurants, and a beautiful seaside promenade.

You can take a leisurely stroll here, settle down on a terrace, or visit one of the beaches. The coastline around Cascais is also beautiful.

Moreover, Cascais combines well with a visit to Sintra.

Hint: make it a lovely day and drive from Sintra via Cascais back towards the coast.

Sintra

Castles, nature, and fairytale-like places

Sintra is located among the green hills, one of the most special places in the Lisbon area.

Here you will find impressive palaces, ancient castles, and beautiful gardens. The most famous is the colorful Palácio Nacional da Pena, high above the city.

But Sintra is more than just its famous palaces. The lush surroundings, winding roads, and unique estates make it a wonderful place to explore for a day.

Hint: allow plenty of time for Sintra. There is so much to see that it is better to visit one or two places at a leisurely pace than to try to do everything in a single day.

From beach to city

The great thing about our location is that you can head in various directions during your holiday.

A quiet morning by the pool.
An afternoon at the beach.
A day of surfing in Ericeira.
A walk along the coast.
Culture in Mafra.
Or a day trip to Sintra, Cascais, or Lisbon.

And then back to the quiet.

A place where nothing is required of you, yet there is a tremendous amount to discover.