Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Barefoot!

Whether you’re already with us or eagerly anticipating your arrival, we’re thrilled to have you as our guest. We understand that traveling can be stressful, which is why we’ve created this Wiki to address any concerns you may have.

We want you to feel 100% at ease during your time with us, and we hope this FAQ page will help alleviate any worries you may have. Thank you for choosing Barefoot as your destination, and we look forward to making your stay unforgettable.

The Barefoot Villa

What is included in the Villa

If you scroll down here to Facilities, you will find all information. And if you still have a question, hit the Whatsapp button in the right corner 🙂

How many people can stay at the Villa?

We have 2 bedrooms, both with a king size bed (180x200). These beds cannot be separated into single beds, but we can provide single duvets. And we have a sofa in the living room, that can be converted into a bed (140x190). Which means we can have 6 people in total.

Will I find activities to join?

You can ask us for upcoming events. We will also share closeby or last minute activities on arrival/during your stay. On our Go Local page you can find some inspiration to discover the area with our Barefoot friends and local experts. We can easily connect you to create a beautiful experience.

I'm a remote worker. Can I work online from Barefoot?

Yes, you can. We offer high speed internet through the whole house. And if you like you can also work in our Coworking in the Barefoot Guesthouse. Please drop us a message if you would like to book a desk.

Is Barefoot close to the beach/surf?

The closest beach is São Julião, which is only a 10 min walk from the house.
With her dramatic cliffs and reliable swell, this is one of the most unspoiled beaches around. The long stretch of beach offers multiple peaks with both lefts and rights. At low tide the beach stretches for a couple of kilometers, perfect for a good beach walk or a run. Also there is some seriously good hiking on the cliffs. And in the off season it’s easy to find a private spot in the middle of this raw beauty.

For a good surf guide, check: Ericeira Surf Report & Forecast - Map of Ericeira

Is Barefoot close to nature?

The Barefoot Villa is located on the hills of Barril, Carvoeira, overlooking the São Julião beach and valley. So yes, we are very close to nature! Every window shows the gorgeous São Julião Valley. From our house you can start beautiful hikes and mountain bike trails. Not only into the woods but also along the stunning steep coastline and inland hills.

Is Barefoot pet friendly?

We understand that pets are part of the family, but for hygiene and allergy reasons, we cannot accommodate them in our house. Thank you for your understanding!

The stay

How many nights can we stay?

In low season, from October to April, we rent the Villa from 1 month to a max. of 6 months.

In high season, from May to September, we rent the Villa by the week.

How is the check-in process?

We are a small business without a 24h reception, therefor we will ask you to share your estimated time of arrival. For us to be able to open the door and welcome you. We will show you the house and explain everything you need.

Is breakfast included?

Breakfast is not included, but we do offer our Barefoot Breakfast Box

How many neigbours do we share the condo with?

The Barefoot Villa gives you the opportunity to meet ánd retreat. A combination of the convenience of an easeful condo, where you can connect with others. And the luxury of a private villa, where you can have the comfort and space to retreat.

The apartment is located in a condominium with 11 other apartments. We share the pool and the garage.

We respect everyone's space and rest, and we ask our guests to do the same. We very much value our magical combo of the comunal vibes with a peaceful ambience.

Is there airconditioning and/or heating?

Yes, we have an air conditioning unit in every room which can cool and heat. Also we have floor heating in the bathrooms. We do kindly ask to use them responsible, if not we will have to charge a fee.

Is there a possibility to wash clothes?

Yes, we have a washing machine and washing detergents.

Anything in particular I should keep in mind (when staying long-term)?

Below three things, are good to explain to make your visit even more pleasant.

Portugal is not always sunny and warm. We have seasons and especially the coast climate can be chilly, moist and unpredictable. It generally always cools down at night.
The Barefoot Villa has an incredilble ocean view, but keep in mind we are exposed to the ocean salty wind.
Portugal has a lot of hills and a stunning steep coastline. Going from A to B can therefor be a tough walk. Also most roads are not bike friendly and the streets don't always have sidewalks. And if they have, they have the typical Portuguese small white uneven and slippery tiles. When wanting to explore more, it is very recommendable to rent a car or e-bike 🙂

Is there a way to order food?

Check out Ericeira Eats or Uber Eats.

Transportation

How to get to Barefoot from Lisbon (airport)?

There are several options:

1. By car
We are on Google Maps

From Lisbon airport it will take you around 40 min. when taking the high way. Be aware this is a toll road and they don't always take foreign cards, some coins / cash money is very recommendable. When renting a car, you can also choose the option with automatic road toll system, called Via Verde. With this little reader, you can just pass straight through the road tolls and pay them later.

2. With our Uber friend, Alex
Very trustworthy, always on time and will wait for you at the gate with a sign, with your name and the Barefoot logo.
His price is €45 one way and €40 when you also drive back with him. Prices are between 07:00 and 19:00, when before/after the price is €50.

Lisbon city centre will be €50 one way.

3. By Uber
You can order an Uber, which will cost you between €40-60 depending on the hour. Please be aware that they can cancel your drive because they found a better deal...

4. By public transport
You first need to go to bus station Campo Grande, which takes around 12 min. You can take a bus (€3), shuttle or Uber. From there you can take the bus to Ericeira. You can check on the bus station or at www.carrismetropolitana.pt for schedules. Be aware that you take a bus which takes the highway! These 'fast' buses take you to Ericeira in around an hour, but only drive 1 (sometimes 2) times an hour. The 'slow' buses can take up to 2+ hours. You can pay in the bus and the price will be around €7 one way. From Ericeira bus station, we unfortunately don't have a regular schedule, it is not even going every hour. So we suggest to take an Uber, it will be around €7 one way.

How to get from Barefoot to Ericeira / shops

We are located on the hills, so everywhere you go, is down or up!

If you have a car, all is within a 15 min drive. If you don't, you can get an Uber from €7 to Ericeira. Also renting an e-bike or scooter is a very good option. Check Take Off E-bike Ericeira for availability and prices.

Just to get you an idea of timings:

Ericeira centre (and big supermarkets)
- by foot: 1,5 hour
- by ebike: 25 min
- by car: 13 min

Smaller supermarket
- by foot: 25 min
- by ebike: 8 min
- by car: 4 min

Getting around Ericeira

For info and tips in and around Ericeira, we created the Ericeira page. Here you can also find our favorite places outside Ericeira.

We are located on the hills, so everywhere you go, down or up! Hiking, renting an (e-) bike, scooter or a car are all good options.

When driving a car, Ericeira only has paid parking at the Largo dos Condes square and Parque estacionamento R. Bombeiros. Besides those it is all free, but can be really busy closer to the centre.

Could I rent a car / bike during my stay?

We advise to rent a car at Lisbon Airport, they have the most choice and best prices. For example check www.rentalcars.com for good deals. For a little extra money you can add an automatic road toll system, called Via Verde. With this little reader, you can just pass straight through the road tolls and pay them later.

You will need a drivers license and a credit card to rent a car and please make sure you know your PIN code!

When not having a car and don't like to walk too much, an e-bike is a very good option. Check Take Off E-bike Ericeira for availability and prices.

Can I do day trips to near towns (Sintra, Nazaré) from Barefoot?

There is a lot to see and explore around Ericeira. Besides Lisbon only being a quick drive, within the same time you will reach one of the most beautiful vineyards, a place to experience authentic Portugal. Or the medieval town of Óbidos, one of the most picturesque and best preserved fortified towns in Portugal. And so much more to explore!
Check our Around & Lisbon page for more info.

Also check out Wavy Bus a direct bus service between Ericeira, Lisbon and Peniche/Baleal.

The journeys will take around 60 minutes and cost €15 per person. All the convenience of a taxi at a much more affordable price! Their buses depart from the centre of town and bookings can be made online in minutes.

Is there a gym or a fitness studio nearby?

Ericeira has many options to do sports. Herewith some of our fav places:
- For Pilates, go to Einat, she is the best and very close by - 15 min by foot / 5 by ebike.
- For yoga definitely Ericeira Yoga Studio - 12 min by car / 25 by ebike.
- For gym/skateboard Boardriders Ericeira - 15 min by car / 30 by ebike.
- For climbing Ericeira Boulder - 15 min by car / 40 by ebike.

We also have many little outdoor gyms. For example just up the road in Santo Isidoro. Or here, perfect after a nice warming up walk/run.

Ericeira loves (outdoor) sports. We have so many cool things to do. Check our Go Local page to get more inspiration.

The area

What are some good places to eat?

There are 2 spots close by to have a drink and food. One is up on the cliff, a basic café, perfect to have something simple whilst enjoying the scenic coastline. And down at the beach, the Voyage Bar, which offers one of the beast pizza’s around, very fresh and tasty!

Ericeira
For a little fishing town, Ericeira has a lot to offer. From very traditional to a more modern twist on Portuguese food. But also Japanese, Italian, Indian, Middle East and Latino food. There is also a great offer of healthy, vegetarian and vegan food. Besides food we have some fun places to enjoy a good wine or cocktail. And where do I go for the best coffee?

Check out our Food & Drinks page for our favorites.

Do I have to tip in restaurants?

There aren’t really rules for who and how much you should tip in Portugal. You should be aware that in Portugal all workers must be paid at least the minimum wage. Of course, a low minimum wage (a little over €700) also means a tip is usually appreciated. You’re not expected to leave a tip just for a drink or two at a café or bar in Portugal. Portuguese, after they have paid their bill, usually leave 5 to 10 % in cash for good service. So for foreigners we suggest 10%. However, if you find the service bad, slow and rude, you may decide not to leave a tip at all.

Do you have any discounts on activities around the area?

Because all people mentioned on my Go Local page are Barefoot friends, the price is already good 🙂

Where is the nearest supermarket?

A nice little supermarket, with quite a good range of products, you can find on a 30 min walk or 8 min bike ride in Carvoeira, its called Pão d'Assafora.

The bigger supermarkets are located in Ericeira. By e-bike 25 min, by car/Uber 10 min.

I'm coming from abroad, anything I shoud keep in mind?

Portuguese people are very welcoming, friendly and are happy to help. In the Portuguese culture, people and relationships are considered more important than time, so punctuality is not as emphasized 😉

There are so many things to tell, but I think below four things are good to explain to make your visit to Portugal even more pleasant.

First of all, Portugal is not always sunny and warm. We have seasons and especially the coast climate can be chilly, moist and unpredictable. With sundown it cools down, also in summer.
Second thing is that Portuguese people like to keep to their traditions. This is a beautiful thing, but when coming to the subject of building a house, it can be a struggle. Even after explaining them all the pros of adding isolation, ventilation and heating to your house, they keep on doing things the way they do, with the simple explanation of: this is how we always have done it. This house is very new and has a good standard of windows and isolation. But to prevent moist, please ventilate regularly.
Then third, Portugal has a lot of hills and a stunning steep coastline. Going from A to B can there for be a tough walk. Although we see more and more bikes, most roads (and especially their drivers) are not bike friendly (yet) and the streets don't always have sidewalks. And if they have, they have the typical Portuguese small white uneven and slippery tiles. When wanting to explore more, it is very recommendable to rent a car, scooter or e-bike 🙂
Portuguese people open up even more if you understand a bit of the language. So herewith a little help: Portugûes & Local vibes

Besides these tips, you just have to discover yourself and fully enjoy this beautiful country!

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