MyPortugalHoliday.com
The best independent guide to Ericeira
MyPortugalHoliday.com
The best independent guide to Ericeira
Sitting along the dramatic Atlantic coastline, Ericeira has transformed from a traditional Portuguese fishing village into a world-class surfing destination. The town's unique blend of surf culture and authentic Portuguese charm makes for a fascinating day trip or memorable holiday destination.
This guide provides four detailed maps to help you get the most from your time in Ericeira. The first map details the main sights of the town, ideal if you are planning a day trip to Ericeira. The second map shows the location of the finest beaches, and the third map covers accommodation options. The final map highlights attractions beyond Ericeira, perfect for visitors wanting to explore the surrounding region.
Related articles: Guide to Ericeira
The interactive map below shows the location of the main sights of Ericeira - perfect for planning your day trip to this delightful coastal town. (Note: zoom in or out to see all of the points)
Legend: 1) Fishing harbour 2) Fishermen's Beach 3) Milreu Fort 4) Boa Viagem Chapel 5) Praça da República 6) Furnas da Ericeira 7) São Pedro Church 8) Ericeira Market 9) Santa Marta Church 10) São Sebastião Chapel 11) Ribeira d'Ilhas Viewpoint 12) Baleia Beach 13) Praia Sul Viewpoint 14) Skate Park Boardriders 15) Santa Marta Park 16) Trilho São Julião (Saint Julian's Trail) 17) São Julião Chapel
The main sights of Ericeira
Praia dos Pescadores
A wonderful sandy beach in the centre of Ericeira with views over the fishing harbour. On October 5, 1910, King Manuel II and his royal family departed for exile from this beach, marking the end of Portugal's monarchy.
Doca Pesca
This working fishing harbour, protected by a substantial breakwater, remains central to Ericeira's fishing industry. Visitors can watch the daily routines of local fishermen as they land their catch and maintain their boats, which are stored on the adjacent beach.
Forte de Milreu
An 18th-century fortress that stands high above the coastline, was constructed as part of Portugal's coastal defence network against pirate raids.
Capela da Boa Viagem
Overlooking the Atlantic, this chapel features maritime-themed azulejo tiles and has traditionally served as a place where fishermen before heading to sea.
Praça da República
The heart of Ericeira, this historic main square is lined with traditional Portuguese buildings and bustling cafes, serving as the town's central meeting point.
Furnas da Ericeira
These natural caves and rock formations, which have been carved by the power of the Atlantic, were historically used for lobster farming.
Igreja de São Pedro
This 15th-century church showcases Portuguese Baroque architecture at its finest, with an interior that features intricate gilded woodwork and detailed azulejo tile panels.
Ericeira offers a diverse range of beaches that cater to both surfers and sunbathers. If you're looking for a peaceful day by the sea, head to the sheltered Praia dos Pescadores or the northern section of Praia da Baleia, which provide protection from the powerful Atlantic waves and coastal winds. If you are heading to Ericeira for surfing the two renowned beaches are the Praia de Ribeira d'Ilhas and Foz do Lizandro.
The map below shows the location of all of the beaches in Ericeira. For detailed information about each beach in the Ericeira region, see our complete beach guide here.
Legend: 1) Praia de São Lourenço 2) Praia dos Coxos 3) Praia de Ribeira d'Ilhas 4) Praia da Empa 5) Praia do Matadouro 6) Praia de São Sebastião 7) Praia do Norte 8) Praia dos Pescadores 9) Praia do Sul 10) Praia da Foz do Lizandro 11) Praia de São Julião
Whether you're seeking a luxurious boutique hotel with ocean views or a laid-back surf hostel, Ericeira offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. The town's accommodations are primarily concentrated in two distinct areas: the charming old town with its cobbled streets and traditional architecture, and the modern northern zone near world-class surf spots.
Our interactive map, powered by Booking.com, helps you explore current options and locations throughout Ericeira.
The Ericeira region offers a rich variety of attractions, all easily accessible by car. From the magnificent palace at Mafra to the picturesque cliff side village of Azenhas do Mar, there's something for every interest.
Hidden among these famous landmarks are delightful local treasures. Discover the forested paths of the Tapada Nacional de Mafra, the model village of Aldeia Típica José Franco, or the Bronze Age archaeological site at Castro do Zambujal.
The interactive map below highlights 19 notable and varied sights throughout the region. (Note: zoom in or out to see all of the points)
Legend: 1) Palácio Nacional de Mafra 2) Aldeia Típica José Franco 3) Azenhas do Mar 4) Tapada Nacional de Mafra 5) Julião cliffs (viewpoint and hiking) 6) Forte do Zambujal (ruins and hill) 7) Serra do Socorro (hike and viewpoint) 8) Castelo de Torres Vedras (castle) 9) Castro of Zambujal (ruins) 10) Jardim do Cerco (Mafra) 11) Aldeia da Mata Pequena (small rustic village) 12) Centro de Recuperação do Lobo Ibérico 13) Parque Aventura Cova da Baleia 14) Praia do Magoito 15) Praia de São Lourenço 16) Miradouro da Carvoeira viewpoint 17) Museu Arqueológico de São Miguel de Odrinhas 18) Praia das Maçãs 19) Quinta Sant'Ana (Winery)
Quinta Sant'Ana (Winery)
A working winery and wine estate in the Mafra region that produces wines from Portuguese and international grape varieties. The estate features historic buildings and gardens, and offers wine tastings and tours. Bookings for tours can be made on their website: www.quintadesantana.com
Palácio Nacional de Mafra
An enormous 18th-century baroque palace-monastery complex and national monument in Mafra, Portugal. It was built by King João V and features one of the most important historic libraries in Europe, with about 36,000 leather-bound volumes. The palace includes a basilica, royal apartments, and extensive gardens.
Aldeia Típica José Franco
A recreated traditional Portuguese village in Mafra created by artist José Franco. It's a museum-like space that showcases traditional Portuguese rural life, including working windmills and displays of traditional crafts and occupations.
Azenhas do Mar
A picturesque white-washed coastal village built into a cliff face. It's known for its dramatic oceanside setting and natural swimming pool carved into the rocks. The village is arranged in a cascade down the cliff with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.
Tapada Nacional de Mafra
A large walled forest and former royal hunting ground adjacent to the Mafra Palace. It serves as a wildlife preserve and recreational area, home to various species including deer and wild boar. Visitors can explore through guided tours or hiking trails.
Castelo de Torres Vedras
A medieval castle with origins dating back to the Moorish period. Located in Torres Vedras town center, it played an important role in Portuguese history, particularly during the Peninsular War as part of the Lines of Torres Vedras defensive system.
Castro do Zambujal
A significant Copper Age/Early Bronze Age archaeological site near Torres Vedras. It's one of the most important prehistoric settlements discovered in Portugal, featuring remains of fortified walls and evidence of early metallurgy, dating back to around 2500 BC.
Jardim do Cerco
A historic garden adjacent to the Mafra National Palace. It was originally designed as the palace's royal garden in the 18th century. Features formal gardens, fountains, and a botanical collection.
Aldeia da Mata Pequena
A restored traditional Portuguese village in the Mafra region that maintains its original rural architecture and character. The stone houses have been renovated while preserving their traditional features, and it now functions as a rural tourism destination.
Centro de Recuperação do Lobo Ibérico
A conservation center dedicated to the recovery and protection of the Iberian wolf. Located near Mafra, it provides shelter for wolves that cannot be released into the wild and conducts research and educational programs about this endangered species.
Museu Arqueológico de São Miguel de Odrinhas
An archaeological museum located near Sintra that houses a significant collection of Roman artifacts found in the region. It's built near the site of an ancient Roman villa and features both indoor exhibitions and outdoor archaeological remains.
Praia das Maçãs
A popular beach town sitting on a wide beach that fills a river valley. This charming coastal spot has a traditional tram which leads up into the hills of Sintra.
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