15-Day Nature Itinerary in Ericeira

  • Day 1: Praia do Sul
    10 minutes (5.5 km) from Ericeira

    Praia do Sul, which means "South Beach" in English, is one of the most beautiful beaches near Ericeira. With its crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from the nearby cliffs.

  • Day 2: Tapada Nacional de Mafra
    15 minutes (10 km) from Praia do Sul

    The Tapada Nacional de Mafra is a nature reserve that spans over 800 hectares of land. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to discover the diverse flora and fauna of the park. The nature reserve also offers activities like hiking and birdwatching.

  • Day 3: Praia do Coxo
    10 minutes (5 km) from Tapada Nacional de Mafra

    Praia do Coxo is known for its impressive waves, and it's a popular spot for surfing. Visitors can relax on the sand or hike along the nearby cliffs. The beach is also known for its mesmerizing rock formations that have been shaped by the ocean over time.

  • Day 4: Berlengas Island
    1 hour (26 km) from Praia do Coxo

    Berlengas Island is located off the coast of Ericeira, and it's a nature reserve that's home to various bird species, including puffins and seagulls. Visitors can take a boat trip to the island and enjoy swimming, diving, and other water activities. Visitors can also explore the island's historic fort and lighthouse.

  • Day 5: Foz do Lizandro Beach
    30 minutes (14 km) from Berlengas Island

    Foz do Lizandro Beach is a scenic spot for sunbathing, hiking, and surfing. The beach is framed by cliffs, and its sand dunes and river delta are a haven for different types of seabirds. Visitors can also enjoy drinks and snacks at the nearby beach bars.

  • Day 6: Serra de Montejunto Natural Park
    40 minutes (39 km) from Foz do Lizandro Beach

    The Serra de Montejunto Natural Park is a mountain range that's rich in biodiversity. Visitors can hike or bike through its winding trails while admiring the lush vegetation and stunning views of the countryside. The park is also home to several historic landmarks, like the ruins of a Roman temple.

  • Day 7: Quinta das Carrafouchas
    20 minutes (11 km) from Serra de Montejunto Natural Park

    Quinta das Carrafouchas is a wine farm that produces high-quality wines using traditional methods. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the vineyards and learn about the wine-making process. The farm also offers tasting sessions, where visitors can sample different wine varieties.

  • Day 8: Mafra National Palace
    10 minutes (6 km) from Quinta das Carrafouchas

    The Mafra National Palace is a historic landmark that was built in the 18th century. Visitors can explore its impressive collection of art, furniture, and tapestries. The palace also houses a library with over 40,000 volumes of books.

  • Day 9: Santa Cruz Beach
    20 minutes (12 km) from Mafra National Palace

    Santa Cruz Beach is a long and wide sandy stretch that's perfect for swimming and surfing. Visitors can sunbathe, walk along the shoreline, or enjoy the nearby restaurants and cafes. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets.

  • Day 10: Sítio das Fontes
    30 minutes (20 km) from Santa Cruz Beach

    Sítio das Fontes is a stunning natural park that features lush greenery, streams, and waterfalls. Visitors can wander through the well-maintained trails while exploring the diverse flora and fauna. The park also offers picnic areas and other recreational facilities.

  • Day 11: Mafra National Hunting Reserve
    10 minutes (6.7 km) from Sítio das Fontes

    The Mafra National Hunting Reserve is a protected area that's home to several animals, including rabbits, hares, and deer. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and fresh air while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.

  • Day 12: Ribeira d'Ilhas Beach
    15 minutes (6.5 km) from Mafra National Hunting Reserve

    Ribeira d'Ilhas Beach is one of the most popular spots for surfing and other water sports near Ericeira. The beach is known for its impressive waves, and it's a favorite destination for professional surfers. Visitors can also explore the nearby cafe and restaurant scene.

  • Day 13: Limipicos Caves
    15 minutes (7.2 km) from Ribeira d'Ilhas Beach

    The Limipicos Caves are a hidden gem of Ericeira. Visitors can explore the stunning calcareous rock formations while learning about the geological history of the area. The cave system offers tours guided by experienced professionals.

  • Day 14: Praia da Empa Beach
    30 minutes (16 km) from Limipicos Caves

    Praia da Empa Beach is a charming spot near Ericeira that's perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can relax on the sand or explore the nearby cliffs and rock formations. This beach is also known for its traditional fishing boats and fish-based cuisine served by restaurants around it.

  • Day 15: Cabo da Roca
    20 minutes (12 km) from Praia da Empa Beach

    Cabo da Roca is a majestic cliff that's known for being the westernmost point of Europe. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and explore the nearby lighthouse. The area is also a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Praia do Sul (3 hours, free)
  • Tapada Nacional de Mafra (2 hours, €8)
  • Praia do Coxo (2 hours, free)
  • Berlengas Island (6 hours, €20)
  • Foz do Lizandro Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Serra de Montejunto Natural Park (4 hours, free)
  • Quinta das Carrafouchas (2 hours, €10-€20 per person)
  • Mafra National Palace (2 hours, €6)
  • Santa Cruz Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Sítio das Fontes (4 hours, free)
  • Mafra National Hunting Reserve (3 hours, free)
  • Ribeira d'Ilhas Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Limipicos Caves (2 hours, €15 per person)
  • Praia da Empa Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Cabo da Roca (3 hours, €5 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €64 - €78 per person

Transportation

Ericeira is a small town, and most of the attractions are within a few kilometers of each other. The best way to explore the area is by renting a car, which costs around €20 per day. There are also buses that operate between the major towns around Ericeira, which cost around €2-€5 per trip.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you may want to consider visiting other charming towns near Ericeira, like Sintra and Cascais. These towns offer a mix of stunning historic landmarks and natural scenery. If you have less time, you may want to reduce the number of beach visits on this itinerary to make time for other attractions in the area.

Airports

The nearest airport to Ericeira is the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), which is located approximately 38 km away from the town center. The airport serves international and domestic flights and is connected to the town center by buses and taxis.

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