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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 house
What is included in the common areas?
The living room offers a fully equipped kitchen. For every room there is a cupboard plus shelf in the fridge. The big dining table, in front of the fireplace, is perfect for (community) meals. We offer fresh teas and a coffee corner with a good filter machine and grinder, to make a freshly ground coffee.
The living room also has a reading/game corner, with relaxed sofa. And a big lounge sofa to chill, overlooking the Ribeira valley and our garden.
The garden has a pool with sunbeds, hammock and some cozy areas to chill. There is a fire bowl and a veranda with bbq and huge Portuguese table. You can rinse of your salty and sandy feet at our outside shower, hidden behind the tree. And store your surf gear in the surf shed.
On top of everything we have a Coworking space with a communal working area, which offers 6 working stations. And a therapy room, which we use for massages, small sessions like breathwork or a workshop. But also can be used to meditate or do your (yoga) practice. It offers space for 4-5 people.
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 a separate Coworking area with 6 communal working stations. Also all our rooms have a table and chair to get some work done.
Is Barefoot a surfing guesthouse?
Barefoot is a guesthouse that combines the comfort and convenience of a hotel, with the community and connection of a shared living space. We welcome everyone that feels comfortable with this magical combination, that brings a warm and relaxed vibe.
And yes, we are only a 10 min walk from the world famous surf spot Ribeira d'Ilhas, so you are on the right spot if you like to surf!
Is Barefoot close to the beach/surf?
The closest beach is the famous Ribeira d'Ilhas, which is only a 10 min walk from the house.
Wikipedia tells us that Ericeira is popular, owing to the forty beaches with good conditions. And yes, we agree, there are plenty! Some of them can be busy in high season, but there is always a quiet or even empty beach to find.
For a good surf guide, check: Ericeira Surf Report & Forecast - Map of Ericeira
Is Barefoot close to nature?
Our house is located in the Ribeira Valley, so yes, we are very close to nature! All common areas and most rooms overlook the gorgeous Ribeira Valley. From our house you can start beautiful hikes and mountain bike trails. Not only into the Ribeira woods but also along the stunning steep coastline and inland hills.
The stay
How is the check-in process?
We are a small guesthouse and don't have 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, your room and explain everything you need.
Is breakfast included?
Breakfast is not included, but we do offer our Barefoot Breakfast Box
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.
- Portuguese houses are cold and moist, especially during the winter months. Before we opened Barefoot, we had a huge renovation, which already made the house much more comfortable. But still, I advise you to bring layers and a good warm sweater/jacket, socks and shoes.
- 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 recomendable to rent a car or e-bike 🙂
Is there heating in Winter?
Yes, we have an electric heater for every room. We do kindly ask to use them responsible, if not we will charge a fee.
Is there a possibility to wash clothes?
Yes, we have a washing machine. We ask for a contribution of €2.50 per wash or €10 if we also hang and fold your clothes.
Is there a way to order food?
Check out Ericeira Eats or Uber Eats.
What kind of people visit Barefoot?
Our guesthouse attracts individuals from all over the world, typically freelancers, remote workers, surfers, yogis and nature enthusiasts who are open-minded, respectful and kind.
We encourage everyone to be a part of the daily communal experience. That said, we also understand when guests retreat for some alone time in the privacy of their spaces.
How does a regular day at Barefoot look like?
Every guest has it's own rythm, some wake up early and go for a surf/swim/run/yoga, others start their day slow with a coffee in their room. Some are working and will be home mostly, others go explore and will be out most of the day.
In addition to everyone's individual program, we organize weekly/monthly activities, like breathwork, yoga, cooking workshops and communal meals. We'd love you to join, but totally understand and respect when you don't feel like it.
So how does this look like when you don't feel like joining?
Beside having your comfy private room to retreat, we also created some cozy corners in the common areas.
We respect everyone's space and rest, and we ask our guests to do the same. The activities will not interrupt these values and if they do, please let us know right away. We very much value our magical combo of the comunal vibes with a peaceful ambience.
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 neighbour Uber driver, Pasi
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 sometimes 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 €4 one way.
How to get from Barefoot to Ericeira / shops
We are located in the (Ribeira) Valley, so everywhere you go, is up!
If you have a car, all is within a 10 min drive. If you don't and like to walk, all good. When you don't or in need of bigger shopping, an Uber is around €4 to Ericeira. Also renting a bike, 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: 50 min
- by ebike: 15 min
- by car: 5 min
Smaller supermarket
- by foot: 30 min
- by ebike: 10 min
- by car: 3 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 in the (Ribeira) Valley, so everywhere you go, is 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 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, a 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.
Is there a gym or a fitness studio nearby?
Ericeira has many options to do sports. Herewith some of our fav places:
- For yoga definitely Ericeira Yoga Studio - 5 min by car / 15 by bike / 45 by foot.
- For gym/skateboard Boardriders Ericeira - 4 min by car / 12 by bike / 35 by foot.
- For climbing Ericeira Boulder - 3 min by car / 8 by bike / 25 by foot.
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?
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 very cool new shop/café has just opened in Santo Isidoro, just 5 min up the road, Vizinha is located on the round about. They are opened Thursday, Friday and Saturday (for now) and serve drinks and delicious artisanal cakes and breads! All their veggies and fruits come from their own land 💛 You can also buy veggie boxes on request. A must visit!
We have 3 smaller supermarkets in Ribamar, the best one is Mercearia Raiz (35 min walk).
We have a small Pingo Doce & Go on the way to Ericeira (25 min walk).
The bigger supermarkets are located in Ericeira. By bike 20 min, by car/Uber 5 min, by foot an hour.
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 three 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.
Sooo... Portuguese houses are cold and moist, especially during the winter months. Before we opened Barefoot, we had a huge renovation, which already made the house much more comfortable. But still, I advise you to bring layers and a good warm sweater/jacket, socks and shoes. - 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. 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 recomendable to rent a car 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!