Ericeira, perched on high cliffs some thirty meters above a string of sandy beaches, has benefited greatly from it’s location. A small fishing village whose name derives from sea urchins (Ouricos do Mar) and where shellfish are still reared in tanks that can be seen at the bottom of the cliffs, Ericeira is home to one of the very few natural harbours between Cascais and Peniche. Because of this the small fishing village grew into a major port, with boats leaving to trade with countries as far away as Scotland and Brazil.This village is known for its whitewashed chapels and houses that line the narrow streets.
You can even enjoy a freshly caught (and delicious) seafood dinner at one of the historic seafront restaurants after working up an appetite surfing the waves on Ribeira das Ilhas beach, one of the best surfing spots in Europe.
