What to See Around Ericeira
Photo: Nina Vukas (Cabo da Roca)
If you're coming from abroad to attend one of our trainings in Ericeira, it would be a shame not to extend your stay before or after the course. The area is filled with stunning scenery, perfect for preparing for the training or unwinding afterward. Renting a car will give you access to many nearby destinations. I live between Lisbon and Ericeira, so I'll share some spots closer to Lisbon. Rest assured, you can't go wrong, regardless of the direction you choose.
Explore Nearby Destinations
An hour's drive north takes you to Peniche, known for its beautiful beaches, caves, and breathtaking views. A short drive from Peniche will take you to the charming old village Obidos, a must see if you are in the area.
Heading 10 minutes inland from Ericeira, you'll find Mafra, home to the magnificent National Palace. Another 50 minutes away is the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve.
Within a 15-minute drive south, you'll reach Praia da Vigia, famous for its immense cliffs and endless ocean views. Continue south for 20 minutes to discover Azenhas do Mar, a pristine village perched atop the ocean, and then head further south to visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe and Sintra Mountain Range for dramatic cliffs, amazing views and a beautiful sunset. Consider spending the night in the historic village of Sintra, just 15 minutes away, to rest up for the next day's adventures.
Discover Sintra
Spend a day exploring Sintra, renowned for its palaces, gardens, and quaint atmosphere. Buy tickets in advance, as it's a popular tourist destination. Places to visit:
National Palace of Pena: This palace is the crown jewel of the Sintra Hills. Purchase tickets for both the park and the palace to fully experience the terraces, courtyards, and interior rooms, including cloisters, dining rooms, sitting rooms, chambers, and more. Even on my fourth visit two months ago, it was worth every penny. Explore the lush park surrounding the palace, marveling at the Valley of Lakes, Queen's Fern Valley, Camelia Garden, a waterwheel, a temple, statues, grottoes, and the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.
Quinta da Regaleira: This site requires one ticket, which you should also get in advance. It's filled with stunning examples of 19th-century romantic architecture, including the famous Initiatic Well. While the Well is intriguing, many other structures and buildings are equally captivating. Spend at least a full day, if not two, in Sintra to fully appreciate its magic. Check online for any updates before your visit.
Continuing South
After immersing yourself in Sintra's history and greenery, head 20 minutes south to Praia do Guincho. Enjoy a meal at Bar do Guincho or the more upscale Muchaxo.
Then, continue to Cascais (10 minutes away) and take in the view at Boca do Inferno. The coastline between Cascais and Lisbon is lively and filled with historical landmarks.
Carcavelos: My home, just 15 minutes from Cascais, boasts a long beach popular with surfers. If you surf or want to try, this is the place. You might even spot me at the beach for a dip.
Follow the coastline towards Lisbon to see historical sites like Torre de Belém, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Palácio Nacional de Belém, and the MAAT (Art, Architecture, and Technology Museum). You'll also pass Ponte 25 de Abril and the Sanctuary of Christ the King across the river. Lisbon itself has many attractions, which we can explore another time.
Further South
If you have more time, cross the river for more stunning beaches. After a 40-minute drive, you'll reach Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, Praia dos Galapinhos, and Praia da Figueirinha. Each beach is heavenly, making it hard to choose just one.
Continue to the Sado River, where you can either drive around the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve or take a ferry. Welcome to Troia, a narrow strip of land with long, beautiful beaches and otherworldly sunsets.
Keep following the coast to reach Comporta, a long stretch of sand extending from Troia to Comporta. The water becomes more ocean-like as you go further south.
Returning to Lisbon
If your time is limited, head back north to Lisbon. The drive from Comporta to Lisbon takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes if you don't take the ferry. If you have more days, the entire coastline from Comporta to the Algarve is worth exploring—perhaps on your next visit to Portugal?
I once read that the brain can get accustomed to too much beauty and stop registering things as beautiful as they are. In this part of the world, that's a real possibility. Despite my Portuguese roots and potential bias, these spots remain breathtaking even after traveling the world. Enjoy your stay!
Our next 200-hour YTT in Ericeira
Bruno Morais
Bruno is one of the Lead Teacher Trainers at Spanda Institute, leading our intensive Yoga Teacher Training courses in Portugal and Sri Lanka. Bruno is also a dancer, movement enthusiast and a passionate traveller.
When he is not training new teachers, you can find him teaching classes in and around Lisbon or exploring and discovering beautiful destinations.