Around & Lisbon

There is a lot to see and explore around Ericeira. Not only are we surrounded by the best beaches and surfspots, we are also very close to Lisbon, the most beautiful vineyards, the medieval town of Óbidos and so much more to explore! Besides giving you all the ins and outs when you come and visit, herewith we will already tell you some of our favorites.

Mafra

Palácio Nacional

Through a nice short cut road upwards Santo Isidoro and through the hills to Mafra, you will drive past a typical portuguese mini village – how it used to be – called Aldeia Típica José Franco. Worth a stop and contribute to the volunteers who maintain this. 

Continue to Mafra and visit Palácio Nacional de Mafra, it has a cool story. Don’t skip the end, otherwise you will miss the amazing library.

Tapada Park

After your visit to Mafra you can have a stroll through this beautiful national park. There are a lot of cool walking tracks, mountainbike trails and you can take a train tour to explore the park and enjoy the wildlife.

Mafra-Palace-Ericeira-guesthouse-Barefoot
Cabo-da-Roca-Ericeira-guesthouse-Barefoot

Beach tour to Sintra

Cabo da Roca

Take your time for this trip, tune on your touring mode and explore the beautiful road to Sintra. At least stop at Foz do Lizandro, São Julião, Praia da Vigia and Praia das Maças to continue to Cabo da Roca. The wild and rugged headland that marks the most westerly point of Portugal and European mainland. These windswept cliffs were believed to be the edge of the world up until the 14th century.

Sintra

Sintra is a very touristy place, but definitely magical. If possible, go in low season. What we like most is Quinta da Regaleira, the palace of mystery. A fairy tail decor, the spiral stairs to the wells and little paths to explore more mystery.

Obidos

Also touristy, but we só love this little medieval portuguese walled town. Historically Obidos was presented to the Queen of Portugal on her wedding day, a tradition that continued until the 19th century. One of the most characterful towns of Portugal and very nice to stroll around and drink some Ginja.

Lisbon

Palácio Fronteira

Discover one of the great Lisbon palaces. It’s worth getting off the regular tourist routes. You’ll love its baroque gardens full of fountains, lakes and statues. And its unique and well-preserved set of rocaille decorations and seventeenth century azulejo tiles.

Jardim Príncipe Real

This neighbourhood is slowly becoming one of the trendiest parts of Lisbon. With her restaurants, cafés and shops with history or with alternative concepts. Talking about restaurants, very close to the park you will find a Cevicheria. Be early, because we are not the only ones who love ceviche. Ow and opposite you will find a nice viewpoint over Lisbon.

Bairro Alto

In proximity of Príncipe Real there is Bairro Alto, famous for the many arty shops and the best neighbourhood to go out. 

Alfama

Alfama

Close to the famous Castelo de São Jorge – which you cannot miss together with the old Alfama district – there is Chapitô à Mesa. Go upstairs for a romantic diner with view over Lisbon or stay downstairs and sit with the locals.

Hip & happening

The LxFactory, a former fabric company has been transformed into a mini village for creatives. Hip cafes, street art, ateliers, restaurants, design shops and a little ‘concert hall’ for local bands. Check their website for up to date info and events. Go for a wander and getting jiggy at the rooftop bar. It has a spectacular view (with sunset), bit pricy but that’s what you get when things are hip and happening.

Time Out Mercado da Ribeira, a central market hall since 1892. Besides the traditional market they made a foodhall in 2014 which made it the place to be. With more than 40 food stands, there is something for every taste. We love the chaotic atmosphere here, definitely worth a go!