Picturesque Ericeira is a former fishing village sitting atop dramatic cliffs, with stunning beaches below and some of the best waves in the world along its coast. An abundance of trendy cafes, fabulous seafood restaurants and great-value accommodation options have opened up here in recent years, transforming it into a super-cool surfer town with an ultra-relaxed, boho vibe. And You and the Sea captures this perfectly.
"Hello, good lookin’!” Cheeky messages and colourful murals of sea creatures greet us everywhere: on the garage floor, the elevator mirror, the hallway walls, and even on our slippers. The hotel feels contemporary-cool and minimalist, and boasts stunning sea views. There's a multi-tiered pool deck tucked away behind the hedges and an indoor pool that opens onto the garden; perfect to watch the sunset and relax after an activity-filled day in or on the water. The apartments range in size from one to four bedrooms, each with smart, pared-back design and splashes of turquoise blue to match the seaside surroundings. We were in the mood for some pampering on our visit, and the sauna and heavenly deep tissue massage hit just the right spot. A delicious dinner of red berry mocktails and crab tacos later, and we schlepped our tired bodies back to our apartment, and fell asleep the moment our heads hit the pillows.
As the hotel's quirky name implies, this is a stylish seaside experience with a playful, personal touch. Active couples, families, and groups of friends will adore it.
Highs
- Fantastic seaside location with stunning views
- Hip and funky décor in the common areas; calm and minimalist in the apartments
- Super-spacious, well-kitted out and spotlessly clean apartments that come in various sizes and have kitchens for self-catering - ideal for families
- A welcome WhatsApp with insider haunts and other useful tips
- Cool, unpretentious Ericeira was Europe's first designated World Surfing Reserve thanks to seven different wave varieties for all abilities - so make sure you give it a go!
Lows
- Parking in the garage is a bit tedious (you need to get out of the car to ring the bell)
- Some apartments don't have sea views - request one that does if you can
- Only a few of the apartments have bathtubs
- Vegan options are very limited at the restaurant - surprising for such a hip place
Best time to go
The summer months can get very hot. Spring and autumn are warm and sunny, with cooler nights - and much less crowded. For surfers, May to November is best. Sumol Summer Fest takes place in July - a popular hip-hop and dance music festival.
Our top tips
Don’t miss the “Watch out for freak waves sign” on the promenade to avoid the “Ericeira baptism” and the ensuing hurried change into dry clothes back at the hotel - particularly unpleasant in chilly November.
Make Ericeira your relaxed holiday base. Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Estoril and Obidós can all be covered on day trips from here.
Make Ericeira your relaxed holiday base. Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Estoril and Obidós can all be covered on day trips from here.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 6 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape