Ericeira

On the coast west of Lisbon, Ericeira is a fishing village that has become one of the best-known surfing destinations in Europe. Its white houses, its harbour and its clifftop views have kept their character, and the surrounding coast is protected as a World Surfing Reserve.

History and identity

Ericeira was a fishing village for centuries, and its harbour and fish market still work today. In recent decades it has become a centre for surfing, thanks to the quality of its waves, and in 2011 the area was recognised as the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe.

What to see and do

• The old town, with its narrow streets and white houses.
• The harbour and the fish market.
• The beaches and cliffs of the surrounding coast.
• The surf spots of the World Surfing Reserve.

Gastronomy and traditions

The town is known for its seafood and for the fishing traditions that still shape its daily life. Its summer festivals and the surf culture give Ericeira a lively character, and the local restaurants serve the fish of the Atlantic coast.

Visiting Ericeira

Ericeira is on the Lisbon coast, about 35 kilometres from the city, reached by road. Access to the town and beaches is free; for surf conditions and local events, check the official website before your visit.

Visitor information: cm-mafra.pt.

Image credit: Ericeira, Portugal, by GualdimG, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.