Webcam Erisheira. Praia do Norte beach
The small Portuguese city of Ericeira, with less than 10,000 inhabitants, is located 35 km northwest of the capital Lisbon. The name "Ericeira" is thought to be derived from "Ouriceira" and the word comes from "Ouriço", meaning "sea urchin". According to one legend, these animals were abundant along the beaches of Ericeira. However, recent scientific research does not support this theory. Perhaps the name of the area has Phoenician roots.
The first written mention of Erisseira is found in a document issued in 1229 to the monk D. Fernando Rodríguez Monteiro, who distinguished himself in military affairs. In the centuries that followed, people appreciated the climatic features of this coastal region. According to the chemical engineer Charles Lepierre, the beaches of Ericeira had the highest concentration of iodine on the entire northern coast of Portugal.
The Bishop of Coimbra took regular baths here in 1803. In the 19th century Erisheira was often visited by the members of the royal family. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the construction of houses for Lisbon aristocrats began in the vicinity of the town.
For a long time the port of Erisheira was the fourth most important in Portugal. But in the second half of the 19th century the railroad construction caused it to lose its position. During World War II, Erisseira and its surroundings were home to foreign communities who fled their homeland because of the persecution of the Nazis: Germans, Dutch, Belgians, French, and Poles.
After 1950, the region gradually became a popular beach holiday destination. It is also known as Europe's largest surfing center.
Tours to Erisheira in Portugal are chosen by people who prefer wide sandy beaches. In the city itself and to the south of it there are three such beautiful places to relax: Praia do Sul, Praia do Peixe, Praia do Lizandro. Ocean waves, soft sand and excellent infrastructure have brought the popularity of this resort region.
North of Erisseira is Peniche, also a favorite of surfers. In between these towns are several small, little-known settlements. But they offer the most attractive setting for a quiet holiday, including with the family. For lovers of peace and quiet are beaches Valmitao, Porto Dinheiro, Areia Branca.
Holidays in Erisseira are chosen by people of all ages and with different interests. In addition to those who dream of a chocolate tan, surfers come here. There are 10 surf spots in Erisseira and kids can board at the age of 7.
The best surf spots are north of town: Praia do Norte, Praia do Norte and the world championship course, Praia da Ribeira de Ilhas.
Incidentally, the last two of the above beaches have been awarded the EU Blue Flag and are among the best in Europe. Praia do Lizandro is the best place for beginners' lessons, where people from all over the continent come to learn how to ride a wave.
