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Situated on Portugal’s Atlantic coast, just 45 minutes from Lisbon, Ericeira has transformed into an international destination, famous for surfing, its relaxed atmosphere, and its authentic charm. With fresh fish on the table, cobblestone streets, and dramatic sea cliffs, Ericeira perfectly combines relaxation and adventure.

If you are looking for reasons to put Ericeira at the top of your Portugal holiday list, here are the main ones.

1. Europe’s Only World Surfing Reserve

Ericeira is the capital of surfing in Portugal and Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve. If you are experienced, waves like those at Ribeira d’Ilhas are a must; if you are starting out, beaches like Foz do Lizandro offer schools and perfect conditions for beginners. Surfing is part of the local identity and sets the pace of the village, visible in the shops, cafés, and the international community that lives here.

2. Golden Beaches for All Tastes

Beyond surfing, Ericeira has a variety of beaches that delight any visitor. Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach), right in the centre, is ideal for families. Praia de São Sebastião and Praia do Sul offer perfect settings for sunbathing, while Praia da Empa and Praia de São Lourenço show a wilder facet of the coast.

3. A Charming Historic Centre

The narrow, cobblestone streets of the historic centre are filled with white houses with blue accents, traditional shops, and cosy terraces. It is the ideal place to stroll without rush, discover small ateliers, try a pastel de nata (custard tart), or watch the sunset from one of the many viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic.

4. Authentic Gastronomy

Holidays in Ericeira are not complete without savouring its gastronomy. Fresh fish, octopus, and the famous lobster bread stew (açorda de lagosta) are just some of the local specialities. In traditional seafood restaurants or more modern eateries, you will always find dishes that celebrate the sea. Pair them with a glass of *vinho verde* (green wine) or a crisp white wine from neighbouring regions.

5. Perfect Location, Close to Lisbon and Sintra

Ericeira offers a balance between tranquility and proximity to major cultural sites. Lisbon is less than an hour away, ideal for a full-day visit. A few kilometres away, Sintra dazzles with its fairy-tale palaces and mystical forests. Thus, you can easily combine beach, culture, and city in a single trip.

6. Nature and Outdoor Life

Surrounded by cliffs, valleys, and the Atlantic, Ericeira is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Besides surfing, there are coastal trails for hiking, cycling routes through the countryside, and nature reserves to explore. Here, every moment outdoors is an opportunity to take a deep breath and appreciate unique landscapes.

Practical Tips for Your Stay in Ericeira

Where to Stay: AL – A Casa das Casas (Holidays in Ericeira) offers fully equipped, comfortable, and strategically located local accommodations and short-term rentals. They are the right choice for those looking to experience the authenticity of the village without giving up modern amenities.

How to Get There: From Lisbon to Ericeira is a short hop. Just follow the A8 and then the A21: in less than 45 minutes, you will be breathing the Atlantic breeze and diving into the relaxed energy of the village.

When to Visit: Ericeira is a worthwhile destination any time of the year. Summer invites beach days and surfing, spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures and quieter streets, and winter reveals the village in its most authentic state, with fewer tourists and a welcoming atmosphere.

Live the Full Experience in Ericeira

AL – A Casa das Casas (Holidays in Ericeira) offers comfortable, fully equipped, and well-located local accommodations and short-term rentals — ideal for those looking to experience the authenticity of the village, whether on a weekend getaway, extended vacation, or stays of several months.

And for those who fall in love with Ericeira and decide to stay for good, A Casa das Casas, a local reference real estate agency, is the right partner to find the ideal home. Whether to buy or rent long-term, here you will find everything from modern apartments to villas by the sea.

FAQ – Holidays in Ericeira

1. What is the best time to visit Ericeira?

Spring and summer (May to September) are ideal for enjoying the beaches and the lively atmosphere. For those who prefer fewer crowds, September and October offer good weather, pleasant sea temperatures, and more tranquility.

2. Is Ericeira a family-friendly destination?

Yes. Besides calm beaches like Praia dos Pescadores, there are family restaurants, accommodations with private pools, and many outdoor activities, from cycling trips to coastal walks.

3. How to get to Ericeira from Lisbon?

The most practical way is by car (about 45 minutes via the A8 and A21). There are also direct buses from Campo Grande station in Lisbon that arrive at the village centre.

4. Where to stay in Ericeira?

AL – A Casa das Casas (Holidays in Ericeira) offers comfortable and well-located local accommodations and short-term rentals. For those thinking of moving permanently, A Casa das Casas is the reference real estate agency to buy or rent a home in the region.