Ericeira
A high-energy coastal escape focused on surfing, trail running, and functional fitness in Europe's only World Surfing Reserve.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Welcome to the World Surf Reserve
Morning — Arrive in Ericeira and check into your accommodation. Grab a coffee and a 'Paço d'Ilhas' pastry while walking the cobblestone streets of the old town to orient yourself.
Afternoon — Walk down to Praia da Ribeira d'Ilhas, a world-class surf break. Watch the pros or take an introductory surf lesson with a local school to get a feel for the Atlantic swells.
Evening — Explore the charming town center (Azenhas do Mar area). Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at Mar à Vista, overlooking the ocean as the sun sets.
💡 Ericeira is a World Surfing Reserve; respect the local lineup etiquette if you are an experienced surfer.
Day 2 · Land Sports and River Trails
Morning — Early morning yoga session at one of the many studios in town to stretch out after yesterday's surf. Follow it with a healthy bowl at a surf cafe.
Afternoon — Rent a mountain bike and head to the Lizandro River valley. There are excellent trails ranging from flat riverside paths to challenging technical climbs with ocean views.
Evening — Head to Praia do Sul for a relaxed evening. Have dinner at a 'tasca' (traditional tavern) and try the grilled octopus or local sardines.
💡 The wind usually picks up in the afternoon, so do your bike ride early if you want to avoid a headwind.
Day 3 · Coastal Running and Royal History
Morning — Visit the neighboring town of Mafra to see the massive National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Mafra), a UNESCO site, providing a light walking workout through its vast corridors.
Afternoon — Take a 15-minute drive to the Tapada Nacional de Mafra. This former royal hunting ground offers incredible trail running and hiking through cork forests where you can spot deer and wild boar.
Evening — Return to Ericeira for a sunset drink at a clifftop bar like Boardriders Quiksilver Store, which often has a skate ramp and live music.
💡 Book the Tapada park entry online in advance if you want to do the specific running trails.
Day 4 · Riverside SUP and Wave Hunting
Morning — Second surf session. Try a different beach like Praia da Empa or Matadouro to experience different wave breaks and reef types.
Afternoon — Head to Foz do Lizandro for a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) session on the river. It’s significantly calmer than the ocean and great for a core workout.
Evening — Dine at Lebre, a local favorite known for its 'Prego' (steak sandwich), a perfect high-protein post-workout meal.
💡 Check the 'Magicseaweed' or 'Surfline' apps for the most accurate daily swell and tide reports.
Day 5 · Cliff Hikes and Beach Bootcamps
Morning — Coastal hike from Ericeira to Ribeira d'Ilhas along the cliff tops. The views are spectacular and the terrain provides a good steady-state cardio workout.
Afternoon — Final high-intensity activity: Visit a local CrossFit box or join a beach boot camp session often held at Praia dos Pescadores. Take a final dip in the refreshing Atlantic.
Evening — Farewell dinner at one of the upscale restaurants near the harbor, toasted with a glass of local Lisbon region wine.
💡 The cliffs can be unstable; always stay on the marked fishermen's trails.