Upon arriving at the Aparthotel You and the Sea, the allure is evident. Located near Praia del Sul in the beach town Ericeira, roughly 40-minute drive from Lisbon, the environment feels alive with the rhythmic sound of waves and the cool embrace of the sea breeze. This isn’t just another hotel stay; it is the start of a miniature adventure. The apartment’s design is contemporary, blending minimalist aesthetics with coastal themes. Those turquoise accents interspersed with white walls aren’t just for show – they mirror the sea's hues just outside our window. Every morning, waking up to a seascape framed by dunes set the tone for the day.

Designed with meticulous attention to detail, our apartment seamlessly merge modern aesthetics with the vibrant colours of the seaside. The turquoise blue accents aren’t merely decorative—they reflected the shimmering Atlantic just a stone's throw away. We stay in a 3-bed apartment. It’s huge with a massive living area and well equipped kitchen with two bathrooms.

You and the Sea boasts amenities tailored for both relaxation and adventure. Its indoor pool offers a serene haven, while the garden pool is the perfect spot for watching the sunset. Its state-of-the-art gym, equipped with the latest fitness machinery, ensures guests can maintain their workout routine, surrounded by inspiring views. Families visiting will appreciate the dedicated kids' room, designed with engaging activities and safe play areas that will delight the younger guests.

The fun indoor pool

The entire hotel, pool, beach-side amenities are filled with fun and trendy art. Vibrant and intriguing art installations accentuate the hotel's coastal ambiance, beckoning us to discover more. The captivating outdoor space that captivates every visitor, making it hard to leave. Whether you're seeking the thrill of skating on a wooden wave, challenging friends to a soccer match, or simply savouring a cocktail with the vast ocean as your backdrop, this space offers it all. Regular yoga sessions are held every Tuesday and Friday for those seeking serenity. For the adventurous at heart, skateboarding lessons are available every Friday afternoon. Yet, it isn’t all about adrenaline. For example, you can rent bikes from the hotel, pedalling your way through Ericeira’s alleyways or along the scenic coastal routes. And the playroom keeps the kids entertained, while you might sneak in the Spa for a massage or a steam bath.

Ericeira has a blend of historical charm and surfer-chic. The town is abuzz with activity: locals, and goats :-) navigating narrow alleyways, surfers discussing wave forecasts, and tantalizing scents wafting from restaurants. This pleasant town effortlessly melds its rich history with a trendy surfer ambiance. As one of the world’s premier surfing locations, the town’s beaches—each with its unique character—beckons wave riders of all levels. It was designated a World Surfing Reserve in 2011 — the first in Europe. Yet beyond the surf, the town offers a plethora of cozy cafes, seafood eateries and local artisan shops.

Ericeira's history is inextricably tied to the sea. Dating back to the early days, its prime location made it a significant fishing village. The abundant marine life in its waters, particularly the highly prized sardines and sea bream, made it an economic hub in the region. It’s allure although wasn't just limited to fishermen. Portuguese royalty and nobility, in various epochs, sought refuge and relaxation in this coastal enclave. This royal patronage greatly influenced the town’s architecture and layout, with several mansions and estates dotting its landscape as a testament to its past grandeur.

One of the most significant episodes in Ericeira's history occurred in the early 20th century. In 1910, King Manuel II, the last king of Portugal, fled from Lisbon to Ericeira's shores amidst the Republican Revolution. From here, he embarked on his journey into exile, marking the end of the monarchy in Portugal.

Back at the Aparthotel after exploring, we find ample ways to relax and recharge. While the pool is a favourite spot for a refreshing dip, the spa is an oasis for tired muscles. The apartment became our little hub, perfect for unwinding and planning the next day's escapades.

Can we make a reservation for tonight?

Dining is also an experience. Our first meal at the Jangada restaurant, part of You and the sea is a testament to Ericeira's culinary prowess. While we delve into an eclectic mix of wood-fired pizzas and modern Portuguese dishes, the kids are all praises for the crab tacos. Breakfast has equally impressive and on request all these delicious dishes also come to you apartment when ordering room service. For further dinners, we oscillate between exploring Ericeira's diverse culinary scene and putting the apartment’s kitchen to the test.

We are very happy to share all this with a dear friend and her teenage son. The first joint activity we do was paragliding with Flywithgaus who operates his business anywhere along the Atlantic coast, mainly depending on wind strength and direction. The adrenaline rush of gliding above the coastline, with panoramic views of the sea and town, is invigorating. The kids, usually not short of words, are rendered speechless during the flight, only to chatter incessantly about it later.

As there are so many activities on offer, we for the next day decide to split up our party. Two of us took the car to explore the nearby city of Mafra. The city's palace, an architectural marvel, offers a deep dive into Portugal's rich history. The extensive library and the artistry evident in every nook makes a deep impression.

The woods around Mafra offer a different kind of adventure for the others. Navigating its trails, the sounds of nature are our soundtrack, and every turn revealed scenic vistas. Here, there is a small stream flowing between rocks, and there, a wide view of the untouched landscape. We take breaks, share stories, listen to the quiet around us, and rest up for the next part of our walk.

Venturing a bit further, but still in the vicinity, is the enchanting town of Sintra. Historically, it's been a retreat for the elite, but its history is ancient, with Moorish influences and Neolithic remnants. Its mist-covered hills are home to romantic palaces, lush gardens, and ancient castles, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. A trip to the nearby Óbidos, with its medieval castle and whitewashed houses, offer another layer of Portuguese history. And no visit to the region would be complete without trying out the local surf schools or stand-up paddleboarding lessons.

By the end of the week, we realize it is both the major highlights and the smaller moments that define our stay. Whether it is charting a new trail, attempting a new dish, or simply debating the next day’s itinerary over breakfast, every moment counts. As we check out, we carry more than just souvenirs. We have a trove of memories, experiences and stories. Aparthotel You and the Sea has been the perfect backdrop for our Ericeira adventure. Until next time!

WOW

# Situated on Portugal's sun-kissed western coastline, Ericeira is not just a scenic gem, but also a town steeped in history. Its charming streets, vibrant houses, and sunlit beaches carry tales from many eras.

# While modern cafes, surf shops, and boutique hotels like "You and the Sea" have sprung up, they coexist harmoniously with the historic edifices and the town’s traditional essence.

# The hotel’s proximity to the beach means spontaneous sandcastle-building sessions and picnics by the sea.