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Vila Gale Hotel
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Private accommodation
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4.5 out of 5
4 Star Spa Hotel with incredible panoramic Ocean views. Satsanga Spa including treatments & messages. 2 Swimming pools to one with ocean sea water. Spectacular outdoor lounge area overlooking ocean & beach. High ceiling bedrooms.
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Location
Located in Ericeira, a beautiful traditional Portuguese town just 35 minutes north west of Lisbon. Right in the centre of town & overlooking surf beach Praia da Sul
- Reviews
- Facilities
- Room types
- Getting there
- Surf Lessons
- Waves
- Terms
52 REVIEWS
Summary
Room Type: Private
Sleeps: 2
Spacious bedroom with high ceilings, overlooking the land side of the hotel. Breakfast included.
Room Type: Private
Sleeps: 2
Spacious bedroom with high ceilings, overlooking the swimming pool & Ocean and Praia do Sul surf beach. Breakfast included.
Room Type: Private
Sleeps: 2
Spacious bedroom with high ceilings. Balcony overlooking the swimming pool & Ocean and Praia do Sul surf beach. Breakfast included.
You can never get lost
When you book you will receive our confirmation email with full travel directions of how to get to us.
We don't provide airport transfers but you can book one easily here: Airport Transfers
- - Nearest Airport: Lisbon
- - Distance from Airport in kms: 30
- - Time from Airport in a car: 35 minutes
- - There is no train from the airport
- - There is no bus from the airport
In the booking steps you can add surf lessons from any of our certified surf school partners below.
- The surf school will either pick you up at your accommodation or meet you at the nearest beach as detail in their profile below.
- The surf school will always contact you the day before to arrange the exact time of your lesson and meet up details.
- Due to changing tides & conditions exact surf lesson times are not decided until the day before.
- The full contact details of our surf school partners are included in your confirmation voucher
- All our surf school partners are certified with their countries National Surfing Association
Surf conditions in Ericeira:
Beginners:












Intermediates:












Advanced:












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Season
Best time to go depends on your level above. July, August & September are the peak tourist months.
This is where you surf Europe's best coast line and let the fun begin.There are over 12 surf breaks along the Ericeira coast, with different options for all standards. With so much choice you'll feel like a kid in a sweet shop! The area was introduced in the Stormriders Surf Guide to Europe with the heading "Enter the Heartland".
World Surf Reserve
In 2011 it was awarded the title of 'World Surf Reserve', there are only 2 other places in the world that share the title: Santa Cruz, US and Manly, Australia.
If it is your first surfing holiday to Ericeira then head straight to Foz do Lizandro and Sao Juliao beaches south of town, they are perfect beginner and intermediate surf spots. Closer to town is Praia do Sul. Another great beginner beach breaks. All best at mid tide but surfable at high and low tide also.
For Intermediates you have the reliable and safe reef break Ribeira d'Ilhas, which host the WSL World qualifying series surf championships every year. And for the more adventurous you have the world class Coxos. That's just naming a few, there are too many surf breaks to mention here!
Don't forget to explore further up the coast - 25 minutes away is Santa Cruz and an hour away is Peniche, home to the World renowned Supertubos and host of the Rip Curl Pro since 2009. 30 minutes south of Lisbon is the Cascais coast with the famous Praia do Guincho surf beach. And when north winds are blowing you can venture further south towards Carcevelos beach and the other surf spots along the Lisbon coast.
Come Surf Ericeira with us…
PAYMENT
- A small deposit is required to secure your booking.
- Your balance is due at check in.
CANCELLING YOUR BOOKING
- To cancel go to the MyAccount section and log in or register and you can cancel from within your account.
- Your deposit is non refundable but can be used for the same property/surf school within one year of your original booking.
- You can cancels anytime up to 7 days before travelling and you will not be charged the balance.
The following cards are accepted at this property:
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November 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
Awesome hotel right by the ocean. Amazing views from the terrace, great restaurant. Two outdoor swimming pools, sauna, gym and many other facilities. Short walking distance to Ericeira center.
How were the surf lessons?
Good teachers. Attentive and patient.
November 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had an absolute ball. The Villa Gale was a fabulous hotel, the amenities were great and if i was going again i would defiantly stay there again. Ericeria was such cool Little town and we found lots of fun even when it was quiet during the week.
I would recommend Tik tak, tik tapas and also "La Pizza" which is off the main square opposite the surf ericeria shop was Delicious food. All in all we had a ball and i have already given your details to lots of my Friends as i would recommend the trip to almost everyone.
How were the surf lessons?
Na onda surf school were absolutely brilliant, the lads that were instructing were great fun but also so passionate about the surfing that it was hard not to get as enthusiastic as they were. As we were there for two weeks we ended up doing 10 days of lessons with them. The whole set up was really professional, we always felt safe and knew we were being watched over by them all.
October 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
The town is a lovely, mostly sleepy fishing town that has clearly had a refresh with the influx of surfers. This has not seemed to ruin it all. There are plenty of good eating places and most at a good, fair price. Highly recommend Prim (which is a meat restaurant) and their sister restaurant Toca (something! - it is 10m away from Prim).
How were the surf lessons with Surf Riders Ericeira?
Activity Centre looked after us well, collected and dropped off each day. My son was a little frustrated as he wanted to do harder surfing but as we where with a 10 year old, the surf catered to more of her needs, which we understood. All in all a good surf school and would recommend them.
October 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We all had a brilliant time although I wish I taken up surfing 30 years ago - great fun though hard work! The kids really enjoyed it and were much better than me! Your info pack re restaurants, beaches etc was great and we ate out at a different place every night.
The food was fantastic (as were the prices). We didn't have a hire car so unfortunately didn't get to visit other places but it is now on my list of places to return to! I think we will definitely try another surf holiday. Also the taxi brothers were great!
The hotel was fine for what we needed it for - the location is brilliant and the kids really enjoyed the pools - also nice that it wasn't full of tourists laying towels out each morning! Seemed to mostly Portuguese that stay there and all very nice. It was brilliant!
September 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
Nice hotel with friendly staff and a central location. Views of the beach are like on a postcard. The town's central square and market are both within short walking distance. If you're taking beginner surfing lessons, then you're also not likely to have to travel far since a lot of beginners start out at the two beaches just to the north and south of the hotel, about 1-5 minutes on foot.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
They're a friendly bunch of instructors who do a pretty good job of handling the chaos of surfing newbies, wave conditions and giving you instruction. Like most things, what you get out of it depends on the effort you put in but these guys will definitely help you along your way and probably leave you smiling at the end of the day at the same time. Recommended.
September 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
The hotel was great in a beautiful location on the beach with excellent facilities. The only down side was we didn't choose the balcony room option. That would of helped with the wet suits and surfing gear.
The town could not of been any better, great restaurants with good food at a reasonable price. Good pubs. The town had some cool surf shops and the locals are very friendly.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
The surf school were fun, friendly, and they really strived to make the surfing as enjoyable as possible. I would return to ericeira for another surfing holiday in a heartbeat.
September 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a fantastic surf holiday. The hotel was really nice. Ericera is an amazing place, we were just disappointed to be missing the reggae festival there this weekend. The whole holiday was really enjoyable and relaxing.Thank you so much for all your help.
How were the surf lessons?
Toby and all the surf guys really looked after us well, I didn't quite get the hang of the surfing, but I'll keep trying.
September 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a brilliant time. The place was lovely and the Hotel was really nice. We will definitely consider bringing a group back next year and stay in the Eco lodges if possible.
How were the surf lessons?
Toby and all the surf guys really looked after us well, I didn't quite get the hang of the surfing, but i'll keep trying.
September 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
I really enjoyed the week in Ericera, the town itself is beautiful, very authentic and laid back. I loved that we didnt come across one Irish/English bar!!! The hotel I must say, for the price, was amazing!
The staff couldnt have been more pleasent and helpful, the breakfast could fill you up for the day and the location could not have been more perfect!
Overall we had a fantastic time and I have recommended the surf holiday to friends in work. I will definately be returning to Ericeira and would definately stay in Vila Gale again.
How were the surf lessons?
I surfed on four days with the surf school. It was brilliant
August 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
The hotel is pretty old and dated but the staff were very friendly and helpful. If you're on the first floor and located near to the bar area do not expect a quiet night!
The town is great :) Many restaurants and bars that all seem good. Check out Sunset Bamboo, Juke Box and Adegar Bar 1987 for chilled out drinks. Tik Tapas is a great place to eat. The Beach bus is a great way to get around all the beaches and access the Surf Reserve.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
NaOnda Surf School was really good. Friendly and helpful staff/instructors. Beach was excellent. As a first time surfer in my 40's I was well pleased to get standing up without assistance after only a few lessons. The beach was often really really busy with surfers, very crowded at times. The instructors managed the the space really well. Highly recommended.
August 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
The hotel was excellent, it felt a little dated but this was more than made up by the quality and attentiveness of the staff. We had a really pleasant stay there and will definitely go back.
The town was a lovely fishing village, pretty much uncommercalised and had a lovely feel to it. My children, wife and I were very impressed.
How were the surf lessons with Surf Riders Ericeira?
Sam and his team were excellent and went way beyond to make sure we had an incredible time.
August 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
ood hotel, big! Nice swimming pools.
Not many children for our 10 year old to mix with. Much older crowd.
Very close to town centre, 5 minute walk.
Town is lovely. Small fishing port so very good seafood restaurants a-plenty. Excellent beach bus (every hour) that will take you and your surf board to the numerous surf beaches Ericiera has to offer. Be warned, a lot of rocks. If this bothers you when surfing, think twice. The ocean is colder than in France, long wetsuits are a must. Wetsuit boots need for some beaches. Surprising windy!
How were the surf lessons?
Lesson experience was mixed. I booked two intermediate lessons, the first was good but the second was hopeless. The waves were big so the school went to the only only beach suitable for large waves - as did many other schools. Our group was far too big and overall it was extremely crowded. If you are booking lessons, do so when the waves are no more than than 3-5ft (unless you are experienced) as all schools head to the same breaks and it's overcrowded.
August 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Our surf holiday went great. The hotel was perfect, couldn't fault it. It's really charming. The staff were lovely. The rooms were great ,amazing views and very spacious as hotel rooms go. I thought Ericeira was very picturesque, the views as you walk up along the coast towards the fishing pier are pretty spectacular. We made a trip to Sintra which is lovely and also got to Obidos. (worth the trip, quite touristy though). We headed out from Obidos to the coast to a place called Foz del Arelho which has an amazing lagoon style beach. Had a nice seafood lunch in a place along the seafront.
Very impressed with the food in Eiriceira. The seafood is excellent and terrific value for money. We ate in Tik Tak, Prim and a place called Furnas right down on the seafront beside the hotel. We also tried the seafood place near Tik Tak that does just shellfish and they give you a hammer, can't remember the name of it, was very good. My favourite was a little place on the seafront next to Canastra , think it was called El Rei, the fried gambas in garlic were divine. The kids loved Tik Tapas, was really busy when we went in, great buzz. We also liked a little bar called The Neptune, popped in there a couple of times. Overall ,it was a brilliant break, I think we managed to get a lot in within the few days! Really liked the area and would definitely recommend it
How were the surf lessons?
We loved the surf lesson, it was brilliant fun. The girls thoroughly enjoyed it. Tobi was great with them.
August 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
Town is great, very handy to Lisbon, lovely setting, great food. Hotel was gorgeous, great pool area, nice rooms, good overall value.
August 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
Hotel was fantastic, great facilities with lovely pools, food and views over beach and Atlantic. We really liked Ericeria town; Tik Tak was probably the best restaurant, Bamboo Bar for drinks and cocktails and Limpoco restaurant & bar at Lazandro beach is also really good with great views. All in all, it was really enjoyable surfing holiday.
How were the surf lessons?
The surf was very powerful and the surf instructors were really good and there were lots of them.
August 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
Great surf holiday in Ericeira. Town is nice, quiet during the week, a class atmosphere at the weekend. I have never seen a town so clean. Cool little shops around town. The hotel was grand, views were amazing, breakfast was ok , the fruit very tasty. Overall, good spot would definitely recommend the town and would go back.
How were the surf lessons?
Great surf, great weather, Foz do Lizandro beach is class and the guys at Na Onda surf school were sound.
August 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great time. The town its self was nice and chilled out not to much in the way of pubs and clubs but we made your own craic. Restaurants were beautiful and the price of food and drink was fairly cheap.
Hotel was brilliant, location, facilities and breakfast were perfect. It made the surf holiday for the girls whom all loved the pool and the views. All in all we had a great week and would definitely go back.
How were the surf lessons?
The surf school were very good. The lads were very helpful and kept a close eye on us all, so the men could relax and not worry about the girls getting into trouble.
August 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
Was a great surfing holiday the town had some beautiful restaurants like Pinta & Pedra Dura. The food was reasonably priced. There is plenty of shops which to brows and buy, some gems like Rustica and surfing gear outlets we thought were great.
The people are all very helpful. There was one nightclub which was jammers, but good craic and unusual credit card drink buying system. The hotel view, rooms, location, food, staff and hospitality was great. In all a great holiday and think we would go back to Ericeira again.
How were the surf lessons?
The surfing was very good, the instructor were very helpful and has very good English. Think we will try the surfing again.
July 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We stayed in the Hotel Vila Gale. It is a lovely old fashioned hotel in a beautiful location. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful. I normally go there in May and of course found the hotel to be a lot busier in July but the staff were still amazing and I was really impressed by their very quick replenishing of buffet and turnaround during a very busy breakfast time. They still managed to keep cheerful and calm during the hustle and bustle. I can't recommend this hotel highly enough. As always Surf Holidays were very helpful with booking and advice on Ericeira. Ericeira itself is a lovely place to visit and at high peak you will need to book your restaurant. Tik Tak is probably the most popular but all the restaurants around here are lovely. Furnas Restaurant is a lovely place to eat, a little bit more expensive, but great food, ask for window seat, a great place to see the sunset. But go find your own as there are lovely restaurants and bars dotted around the small lanes in the town. I usually skipped dessert and went to the harbour to buy waffles and chocolate sauce or have a coffee and custard tart in one of the pastry shops on the square.
July 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
The hotel was great but a little quiet for my taste. For a lone traveller I would recommend getting into one of the many hostels in the town. Perfect for couples and families. Great service from the team.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
It's perfect!!!!!!
July 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
Accommodation was fantastic; rooms well furnished, clean and comfortable beds! Breakfast was particularly good, probably the most varied breakfast buffet I have had; and I consider myself a buffet coniseur. Staff were very friendly and polite particularly the housekeepers said good morning every day, breakfast staff and reception guys. The town was beautiful filled with plenty of places to eat, have a coffee everything you need. Restaurants in the town were one of the best bits of the holiday, we ate at a different one every night and did not have a bad experience, not even a mediocre one they were all exceptional!
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
Surf lessons were again fantastic instructors were super friendly and took great care of us and kept us informed about times and locations every step of the way. All the beaches were well suited for our level. Had a great time would 100% go again.
July 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Vila Gale Ericeira was very nicely located and our rooms clean, spacious and interlinked for the family of which we were very happy. The service was nice as well. Some minor draw backs in the restaurant / room service but all in all fine.
Ericeira is a perfect place to stay especially for those who enjoy surfing or are willing to learn. Also great places around such as Sintra and Nature Park.
Wonderful restaurants e.g. Casa Portuguese, Pedro Duro, Pinto. Better to eat in the center than in the hotel - better price, service and food.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
The whole family took surf lessons, we were first timers. (NaOnda) The system functioned well, lessons were accurate and we were well looked after. Nice monitors especially for our youngsters.
Perfect beaches.
July 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Vila Gale Ericeira was very nicely located and our rooms clean, spacious and interlinked for the family of which we were very happy. The service was nice as well. Some minor draw backs in the restaurant / room service but all in all fine. I loved especially our cleaning woman, she made the best impression of all the personnel in the hotel. Always joyful face and nice greetings, very discrete also.
Ericeira is a perfect place to stay especially for those who enjoy surfing or are willing to learn. Also great places around such as Sintra and Nature Park.
Wonderful restaurants e.g. Casa Portuguese, Pedro Duro, Pinto. Better to eat in the center than in the hotel - better price, service and food.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
The whole family took surf lessons, we were first timers. (NaOnda) The system functioned well, lessons were accurate and we were well looked after. Nice monitors especially for our youngsters
July 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
Had a great holiday. Super place
July 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
Holiday in Ericeira was terrific. The views from the hotel room were amazing.
How were the surf lessons?
The surfing was a blast. Great surf school
July 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
Great place - it was our honeymoon and the hotel was perfect. Ericeira is charming, friendly people, great beaches, amazing surf and top Cuisine - especially the seafood
June 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Hotel was nice.
Our room was close to the Bar on the ground floor and one night it was noisey so as for a room away from there.
Rooms are a bit old fashioned. It was difficult to get out of the shower which was over the bath and there was nothing to hang onto.
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
My son took them- they were ok.
Beaches nice but sea rougher than we expected.
June 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great time last week. One of our best holidays ever! The hotel was perfect, location couldn't have been better, service, breakfast, etc. was excellent. We did go to Lisbon on Tuesday for the day, but it was a short visit as it was 36 degrees.
How were the surf lessons?
Surfing was great fun and well-organised. Yet again the kids put us to shame.
June 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Our holiday was great in Portugal! We liked the hotel with pool and playground for children, and the location was great, too.
How were the surf lessons?
Surfing with Toby and co was a very nice experience.
June 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We recently returned from our fantastic surf holiday in Ericeira. I hesitate to write good things as I don’t want too many people finding out about this un-spoilt part of Portugal. Having never been to Portugal, we didn’t really know what to expect. We simply wanted to visit somewhere with good surf, guaranteed heat, great food packaged up in a traditional environment and we found it all thanks to Surfholidays…
We pre-arranged to be picked up from the airport via Barata Taxis €55 each way as detailed in the welcome pack. Special thanks to Eric who was very welcoming and informative. They can also taxi you around the town, to the beach etc. on request. We stayed at Vila Gale hotel.
The hotel is definitely a 4-Star but it’s not at all pretentious, so you feel very comfortable even in your normal beachwear… The reception staff were very attentive, providing us with lots of information on arrival including a very useful print out of the local bus timetable. Not forgetting the vouchers for our daily pool towels (luxury or what). We couldn’t afford a room with a view, but the hotel grounds sit on cliff face overlooking the Atlantic coastline, so I think it would be worth paying a little more to secure the view if you can.
Breakfast is served until 10AM so you can have a lie-in should you need it. You are then greeted with an amazing all-you-can eat buffet including refreshments, fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereal, toast, pastries, cooked breakfast….you simply can’t get bored with this much variety. Breakfast can be eaten inside the hotel, or if you prefer, on the patio overlooking the sea.
Then there’s the pool area - take your pick from 3 pools. The larger pool is freshwater for adults and ‘sensible’ junior swimmers. There’s also a good sized kids pool (chlorine) and a smaller round toddler pool. There are also plenty of sun-loungers, so you don’t have to get up at stupid o’clock to reserve a bed /umbrella. If you get bored staying poolside, you can always take advantage of their free gym and Jacuzzi.
If I have one complaint, and this is minor really, I think the hotel should consider providing free Wi-Fi. They have it in the Lobby and bar but not in the rooms. It doesn’t cost much to introduce and keeps young and old happy!
As for the evenings, we tended to take the scenic route along the cobbled coast front to the centre (5 mins). There we could take our pick of great places to eat –its wise to book, and as in most Mediterranean countries, they eat late. We thoroughly enjoyed our time, only wish we could have stayed longer so we could have done a little more sight-seeing.
How were the surf lessons?
We took the bus to Foz do Lizandro (about 3 mins) 1 Euro per person. The beach is incredible with safe bathing to the left, disabled access onto the beach and constant surf (best for beginners/intermediates). Toby and the instructors at Na Onda are great – incredibly professional and very accommodating. Our son had the time of his life; the perfect environment for teenage boys (and girls) who love the water.
June 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great week. Weather was good, and 3 nights Lisbon and 4 Ericeira was the perfect mix. We planned to visit Sintra after checking out of the hotel on Friday morning, but the weather was so good we just stayed by the pool instead. The hotel Vila Gale has a great location and the view was great from the balcony. We were in room 311.
Food was great in Ericeira. We ate out each night, Tik Tapas, Tik Tak, Prim, and then Mar d’Areia - a fish place Alvaro recommended. Great food in all 3 places and good value. We didn't go out to any bars in Ericeira, we were happy to take it easy this particular week!
We got buses to and from Ericeira which was handy, low hassle and kept the cost down, so happy enough there. All in all a great week, and I'd defo recommend Ericeira. We've been to Corralejo in Fuerteventura, Famara in Lanzarote, Taghazout in Morrocco (twice), and Ericeira was best all round destination so far I would say, defo for a town, but would have liked more surf. 3 days was our choice though!
How were the surf lessons?
The lessons were good, we told Alvarro we'd surfed before and were happy paddling out back so we surfed at the beach by the Vila Gale. I wasn't too keen on the rocks, but Alvarro let us know where was safe and gave us good tips and we caught quite a few nice ones, so all in all we were happy, and enjoyed the lessons. Great having an instructor between just 2 of us.
June 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a wonderful time in Ericeira, thank you! Your hotel recommendation and the surf school was a perfect fit for us. Barata Taxi was also very reliable and helpful. The town Ericeira, the short walking distances to beaches and through the whole town, the atmosphere and the restaurants was great. We made it to Lisbon by local bus, and enjoyed every minute! This is a hotel and a place where we would love to come back!
How were the surf lessons?
We enjoyed the surf classes very much.
June 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
Ericeira was fantastic. The hotel and pool were great, everyone was very helpful and all the information you gave us was really useful. We didn’t explore too much, we had a wander down to some of the southern beaches but didn't have a huge amount of time to travel anywhere else. The town was lovely and we both hope we will be back in the future
How were the surf lessons?
Really enjoyed the surf lessons, again everything was well organised and everyone really friendly.
June 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great holiday, with most things delivering over and above our expectations. Hotel was great, really clean, family friendly, friendly staff, lovely pool area, great views. We couldn't really fault it. Ericeria is lovely, and we loved the fact that there were so many fantastic restaurants.
Your guide sheet was great and helped a great deal when heading out for dinner. We liked the area but stayed within a few kilometers of the hotel this time (our toddlers were too busy having fun to spend too much time in the car). Foz beach really suited us well with lots to do for the children.
June 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great time again, was really really chilled and the weather was brilliant – high 20’s to early 30’s every day, little or no cloud, no rain. Perfect! We spent 3 nights in Lisbon to begin, stayed in a lovely hotel at the bottom of the Avenida de Liberdade (Heritage – HIGHLY recommend it) and just did a bit of sightseeing, shopping, milling about. And by chance got to see Jack White playing in a really cool venue about 300m from our hotel!
We hired a car then and drove out to Ericeira, which was as lovely as ever. Spent our days going on day trips to other beaches away from the town, Sintra, Cascais, or just lazing about at Foz de Lisandro/ Baleia. The hotel was nice enough, just as we remembered it from a few years ago. The breakfast is very good, facilities are decent, staff are nice, location is great and the pools etc are great.
My only quibble with the place is that the decor is a bit old fashioned. I can’t see this feedback changing anything to be honest. It’s not a massive deal, and I’d prob stay there again, but it would be the main drawback of the Villa Gale in my opinion.
Quite a few new restaurants popped up in Ericeira since we were last there 2 years ago, the best of which (that we tried) being a sushi place, Uni. Tik Tapas still remains the favourite though, think we ate there 4 times between lunch and dinner over the course of the week! Tik Taks is great too. Wish they had a Tik Tapas in Dublin!
June 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
Great location, fabulous terrace and sea views, wonderful outside pools, very comfortable and clean with helpful staff. Only negative - bar drinks were expensive. We thought the restaurants in Ericeira were very good. We particularly enjoyed the seafood restaurants with the ocean views.
We hired bikes from Ericeira hostel and cycled to Riberia D'llhas to watch the surfers. We did not bother to go to Lisbon as we didn't have a car and enjoyed exploring Ericeira and relaxing on the beaches and at the hotel.
Overall we had a fantastic holiday and would recommend the location and hotel to anyone who enjoys surfing. It was nice to visit somewhere which was unspoilt, uncommercialised and not full of British tourists!
How were the surf lessons?
Surf lessons were fantastic, excellent tuition. We loved Foz do Lizandro beach and walked there to surf.
May 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great time in Ericeira! The surfing part was great. Ericeira town itself was lovely. The pack you sent was very helpful and the restaurants were good and very reasonable. We spent a couple of nights in Lisbon and made a trip to Sintra too.
Really liked both places but were glad when it was time for us to head to the coast and just lie out in the sun! I think I might spend another week there in Spring and hopefully figure out this surfing thing!
May 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a fantastic short break to Eiriceira . We arrived on a Saturday morning into Lisbon and hired a car. The directions were excellent that we got from Surf holidays and we were parked up in the Vila Gale hotel within 1 hour from arrival. This was my second time staying at the Vila Gale and I have to say it’s one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in. It is not 5 star décor or facilities but if you want lovely service, 100% cleanliness and the most idyllic location then you have come to the right place.
The hotel has the most spectacular views. I opted for a room with sea view balcony. This hotel is a must when visiting Ericeira, it is within walking distance of all excellent seafood restaurants and bars in the town . The breakfast and room service menu is excellent too . Incredible value for money . I would highly recommend hiring a car to visit the Beaches and close by attractions especially Sintra this is a must see
May 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
The hotel, beaches and restaurants were all fabulous. Ericeira is a beautiful place and we really enjoyed our holiday there. The welcome pack was really helpful also.
May 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
We had an amazing time in Ericeira - didn't want to come home :(. The hotel was excellent again, our third time back. Thank you so much for getting us a room closer to the sea, the view was lovely!
Unfortunately, despite our best intentions, we didn't venture out of Ericeira. We did make it to the night club Ourico though and you were right, six o'clock does come round fast! We did venture up to Ribeira d'Ilhas and Coxos, the waves were a bit too big for me but was cool watching the other surfers. We also found this great cake shop on the square, used to go there for a coffee and cake and then sit out in the square and watch the world go by - it was bliss.
How were the surf lessons?
Surfing was amazing. We had such a good time. It was so much fun. The first week was a bit rough now, there was a lot of falling off, but the second week was perfect, I really got into it. The instructors were brilliant as always. They looked after us really well and they were good craic too! They organised for the group doing lessons to get together for dinner both weeks, was a really good idea and we had two great nights out with them.
May 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
What a great family holiday we had in Ericeira, with our 3 girls, 18,15 and 12. We Stayed in Vile Gale Hotel which was fantastic, two large outdoor pools overlooking the sea, with plenty of well looked after sun loungers.
Supper Buffet Breakfast, to start the day, great rooms with Balcony and sea views..wow. Ericeira town was brilliant, small coppeled stoned streets with plenty of shops and restraunts. Great Bars/restraunts on the board walk at the beach, to relax with a beer/coffee after 2 hours in the water.
Plenty of other beaches, but we just loved Lasandro. Did not hire a car, there is no need as everything is so close to the hotel ,plenty of places to eat with in a 5 min walk. Fos do Lasandro beach is a lovely coastal 20 min walk, or a 5 euro taxi ride away.
The Bamboo Bar was our favorite Bar, with free wifi, and great Cocktails and shakes. The restraunts were great and very inexpensive, plenty to choose from. We spent from 50 euro to 70 euro on evening meals, for the 5 of us (all adult meals) including wine or beers.
How were the surf lessons?
Surfing was Fantastic, at Fos do Lasandro beach with Na Onda surf school , superb instructors
April 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Loved the hotel, rustic place.
April 2019
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great holiday. We found Ericeira to be a quaint little town with great restaurants and lots of interesting shops. The hotel location was fantastic and it was fine.
The bedrooms could do with updating but it was acceptable. Your recommendations for Tik Tac and Tic tak tapas were spot on and we ate in both a few times.
Also the taxi driver you suggested was great and hugely entertaining.
How were the surf lessons?
I hadn't realised before we left that the surf beach was not actually the one beside the hotel so it was a bit of a disappointment to have to travel to that however when we got there we saw terrific it was (Foz Lizandro) and the Na Onda surf team extremely helpful and friendly.
April 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
The holiday went great, just what we needed! We did two nights in Lisbon (first time there and loved it!) then hired a car at the airport and drove up to Ericeira for the week.
Ericeira is a lovely fishing town. Great restaurants, coffee shops, some bars and shops. It suited us perfectly but if you were looking for crazy night life, maybe not the best choice. We ate in a lot of the restaurants but our two favourites were Tik Tapas (great food and atmosphere) and Esplanada Furnas (amazing fish and best views, expensive).
Best location in Ericeira, good facilities, worth the extra money for a room with a sea view. Some of the negatives would be hotel car park is tiny so most days you need to circle the area looking for on street parking.
Breakfast is a bit of a zoo with the large numbers of guests and food would be average. Food at the pool bar is way over priced, so best eat outside of hotel.
So all in all I'd have to recommend them
How were the surf lessons?
The surf school seemed pretty disorganised the first few days because of the weather. Every afternoon we came down for the lesson we were informed that the lesson had just been put back another hour. So a little frustrating but soon you just get used to it!
However once on the water the instructors were excellent and really came into their own. Most days the class sizes were reasonable small, so it was easy to get some attention.
April 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a brilliant week in Ericeira. Hotel was fantastic. The area, beaches and restaurants all provided everything we needed.
How were the surf lessons?
Surf lessons were a bit disorganised on the first day, but were fantastic once I got into them
March 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a fantastic time! The hotel was great, really well located in Ericiera. The pools were great although they were'nt deep enough for jumping or diving! The hotel staff were really friendly and helpful.
Breakfast was lovely, lots of choice and it was all fresh and tasty. We can also recommend the mojitos from na onda! Ericiera was a lovely quaint small town. Its was'nt full of drunken tourists which was perfect.
We ate in tik tak twice because my partner had monkfish with prawns and rice the first time and we needed to go back so I could order it for myself! Highly recommended and very reasonably priced. The bakery on the square deserves special mention for their pastries! We did'nt venture as far as lisbon or sintra. We were quite happy relaxing by the pool or at foz beach!
How were the surf lessons?
The surf lessons were very good. The instructors were very helpful, friendly and fun! The surf beach is pver a 20 minuute walk so we just got a taxi for about €4 each time.
March 2019
Travelled solo
How did you like the accommodation?
The breakfast was poor: fruitsalad quite soft . Some peaches out of tins (in summer!), poor bread. Second class meat. The hotel was quite good. Great swimming pool area .
I had bad luck with waves of 4 metres and a bad current the first day. But then there were very good waves. The beaches were nice – not crowdy. The restaurants were ok too.
March 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great time! Hotel was good, very convenient, beautiful location, rooms and public spaces very acceptable. Town has real charm/character.Great restaurants. Beaches are also very good, weather was great which helped!
We organised our own hire car with Iberent. I would not do that again, we had to wait 45 mins for them to arrive for us both on arrival and departure.
How were the surf lessons?
Ulisses from the surf school is a top man. We had a lot of fun with him; also very knowledgeable about the locality, surfing generally, excellent English. He worked hard to make sure we had a good time. I would recommend him to anyone.
March 2019
Travelled as a couple
How did you like the accommodation?
We had a great time in Ericeira. The hotel was class, clean and very well kept. Ericeira was great, unspoiled with hardly any tourists and the people were friendly. Foodwise I can recommend Restaurant Prim (just off the square) for steak. We had seafood in Tik Tak which was delicious.
How were the surf lessons?
The surf was good, much better than Lahinch (when I was there this summer).The guys from the surf school were cool and very easy going and also very professional.
February 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
The surf holiday was absolutely fantastic, the hotel was amazing. It was a great holiday.
How were the surf lessons?
The surf was savage when we were there, we mainly went to Foz do Lisandro and it was really consistent. Quite a sharp takeoff but a lovely left that I enjoyed all week. Also went to another beach that i just can’t remember the name of, but it was essentially 10 mins north of the town, and there was monster surf there, probably some of the best surfing I’ve ever done.
February 2019
Travelled with friends
How did you like the accommodation?
Brilliant holiday! We had a class time, absolutely amazing surf holiday! The hotel was very nice, staff were very helpful and the location was incredible, it felt like we were on a boat we were so close to the sea. Ericeira was lovely, pretty little town that was very chilled out. We couldn't believe how cheap it was to eat out, we tried most of the restaurants you recommended, they were all really good, we really liked tik tak.
Will definitely be going back next year! It was a lovely walk to the beach!
How were the surf lessons?
Surfing was so much fun! Everyone at Na Onda was really friendly and the instructors were so nice.
Travelled with family
How did you like the accommodation?
Beautiful small town easy access from Lisbon 30 min drive very friendly clean and a holiday destination without being commerciallised
How were the surf lessons with Na Onda?
Surf school instructors very patient and intent on everyone enjoying the experience