Pros & Cons of Living in Ericeira

Thinking about moving to Ericeira? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Ericeira.

Ericeira, a charming Portuguese seaside town, is known for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and vibrant culture. Nestled on the western coast of Portugal, this picturesque town offers a unique blend of traditional Portuguese lifestyle and modern amenities. However, like any place, living in Ericeira has its pros and cons. This article will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of residing in this beautiful coastal town.

Pros of Living in Ericeira

One of the most significant advantages of living in Ericeira is its stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches, such as Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The town's location on the Atlantic coast also provides breathtaking views of the ocean, especially during sunset.

Ericeira is also a surfer's paradise. It's home to some of the best surfing spots in the world, including Ribeira d'Ilhas, which hosts the annual World Surfing Championship. Whether you're a professional surfer or a beginner, you'll find a beach that suits your skill level.

Another advantage of living in Ericeira is the town's rich culture and history. The town's narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and blue accents reflect its maritime heritage. You can explore the town's history at the local museum, Museu Municipal Prof. Raúl da Bernarda, or by visiting the town's historic sites, such as the Fort of Milreu and the Chapel of Santa Marta.

Ericeira also offers a vibrant food scene. The town is famous for its seafood, particularly shellfish, which is caught fresh daily by local fishermen. You can enjoy these delicacies at local restaurants like Mar das Latas and Tik Tapas. The town also hosts the annual Seafood Festival, where you can sample a variety of seafood dishes and local wines.

Lastly, the community in Ericeira is warm and welcoming. The locals are known for their hospitality and are always willing to help. There are also several community organizations, such as the Ericeira Surf Club and the Ericeira Running Club, where you can meet new people and get involved in local activities.

Cons of Living in Ericeira, Portugal

Despite its many advantages, living in Ericeira also has its downsides. One of the main disadvantages is the town's popularity as a tourist destination. During the summer months, the town can get crowded with tourists, which can lead to increased noise levels and traffic congestion. This can also result in higher prices for goods and services during the peak tourist season.

Another disadvantage is the town's limited public transportation. While the town is served by a bus line that connects it to Lisbon and other nearby towns, the service is infrequent and can be unreliable. This can make it difficult for those without a car to get around, especially if you need to commute to work or school.

The cost of living in Ericeira can also be a disadvantage. While it's cheaper than living in Lisbon, it's still more expensive than other parts of Portugal. This is particularly true for housing, as the town's popularity as a tourist and surfing destination has driven up property prices. Renting or buying a house in Ericeira can be quite expensive, especially if you want to live near the beach.

Lastly, while Ericeira has a vibrant food scene, it's heavily focused on seafood. If you're not a fan of seafood or if you're a vegetarian or vegan, you might find your dining options limited. While there are some vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in town, such as the Green is Good, they are few and far between.

In conclusion, Ericeira is a beautiful town with a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches and world-class surfing to its rich culture and history. However, it's not without its downsides, including its popularity as a tourist destination, limited public transportation, high cost of living, and limited dining options for non-seafood eaters. As with any place, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to move to Ericeira.

AGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote