As Julia Roberts famously declared in Eat Pray Love, the pursuit of a meaningful life involves a harmonious balance of indulgence, spiritual reflection, and personal growth. Nestled on the rugged and breathtaking coastline of Ericeira, Portugal, You and the Sea Hotel is a perfect embodiment of this philosophy. Offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and distinctive coastal experiences, this hotel managed by Amazing Evolution, stands as an ideal location to embrace the essence of eating, praying, and loving in one of Portugal’s most enchanting settings.
Getting There
Reaching the hotel from Lisbon Airport is a delightful and scenic journey that enhances the anticipation of your coastal retreat. The drive to Ericeira, approximately 40 kilometres northwest of Lisbon, offers a captivating glimpse into Portugal's diverse landscapes which change throughout the entire journey, something unique to the country. During the drive you’ll embark on a scenic route that transitions from the bustling cityscape of Lisbon to the tranquil, rolling hills and verdant countryside. As you approach Ericeira, the road meanders through charming rural vistas, dotted with traditional Portuguese farmhouses and lush, green fields. The final stretch brings you closer to the coast, where panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs set the stage for your arrival at You and the Sea Hotel. This picturesque drive not only eases you into the serene ambience of Ericeira but also highlights the natural beauty that awaits at this destination.
Elegant Design and Comfort
From its stunning design and scenic location to its exceptional amenities and engaging activities, You and the Sea Hotel provides an idyllic escape for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Upon stepping into You and the Sea, guests are instantly captivated by its refined yet welcoming design. The surfboards, prominently displayed, pay homage to Ericeira's world-renowned waves, drawing surfers from around the globe. The interiors effortlessly blend modern elegance with coastal charm, crafting an ambiance of tranquil sophistication. Hanging lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow, while terrariums add a touch of nature's beauty. The open floor-to-ceiling windows and airy design of the restaurant and lounge invite the outdoors in, creating a seamless connection between the serene interior spaces and the breathtaking coastal surroundings.
To continue a luxury home from home experience, the hotel boasts 35 daily serviced apartments and rooms. Each room and apartment is meticulously designed with a soothing colour palette that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding sea.
Our room was a particular highlight of the stay. It featured a spacious private patio that offered unobstructed panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, providing a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery with a morning coffee or tinto Alentejo. The apartment’s contemporary furnishings and stylish decor ensured a luxurious and comfortable retreat.
Each apartment boasts a breathtakingly spacious lounge, larger than many homes, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. The integrated kitchen is fully equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, including a fridge, dishwasher, and washing machine, ensuring every convenience is at your fingertips. The expansive bathroom, complete with a luxurious tub, invites relaxation and tranquillity. Ample storage is thoughtfully incorporated, while the meticulous attention to detail in the design is evident in the choice of materials—natural wood, sumptuous fabrics, and elegant finishes—all of which elevate the sense of sophistication and comfort to new heights.
Aesthetic and Functional Exteriors
The exterior design of the hotel complements its natural surroundings, with modern architecture that blends seamlessly with the lush greenery and pristine coastline. The clean lines and understated elegance of the building are highlighted by the vibrant blue of the sea and the surrounding greenery.
A standout feature of the hotel is its stunning private beach access. Guests can enjoy the soft sands and clear waters of the Atlantic just steps from their accommodation, making it easy to immerse themselves in the coastal beauty of Ericeira. The hotel’s thoughtfully designed pool area further enhances the outdoor experience. Surrounded by comfortable loungers and meticulously landscaped gardens, the pool offers a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. The adjacent poolside bar serves a range of refreshing beverages and light snacks, adding to the laid-back and luxurious atmosphere.
Dining and Culinary Delights
Dining at You and the Sea is a feast for the senses and a celebration of Portuguese cuisine. The hotel's restaurant is renowned for its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and inventive culinary techniques. The menu features a delightful array of Portuguese dishes, each prepared with a contemporary twist to highlight the rich flavours and traditions of the region.
Breakfast at the hotel is nothing short of spectacular. The breakfast banquet offers an extensive spread of both traditional and modern delights, from freshly baked pastries and artisanal cheeses to vibrant seasonal fruits and rich Portuguese coffee. A highlight of the spread is the iconic pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart with a perfectly crisp, flaky crust—a true taste of Portugal. We also enjoyed the best eggs we've ever had, cooked to perfection and paired with freshly baked bread that was warm, crusty, and irresistible. Each morning begins with this lavish selection, setting a positive tone for the day and allowing guests to savour a variety of delicious and nutritious options. The experience is further enhanced by an à la carte menu, offering personalised dishes to suit every palate.
Lunch and dinner are equally impressive, with the restaurant’s emphasis on seasonal ingredients and innovative preparation methods ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience. The in-house stone pizza oven churns out fresh, artisan pizzas with perfectly charred crusts, a delightful treat for any time of day. For something unique, the duck croquettes are a must-try, offering a rich, savoury bite that perfectly balances crispy and tender textures. Whether savouring a perfectly grilled seafood dish or indulging in a hearty traditional Portuguese dish, guests are treated to a culinary journey that celebrates the best of local cuisine.
Unique Activities and Experiences
One of the standout offerings at You and the Sea is the chance to dive into activities that immerse you in the local culture and environment. Among these, skate surfing stands out as an exhilarating experience—a sport with Brazilian roots that has found a passionate following in Ericeira.
The hotel provides lessons for guests of all skill levels, making it an exciting way to connect with the waves and enjoy the surf in a new way. We had the privilege of a one-on-one training session with João Zank, a skate-surf champion and founder of SurfTech. Together with his business and life partner, Inês Narciso, João established SurfTech to not only teach surfing and skate surf but to inspire beginners to embrace new challenges with confidence.
João, originally from Brazil, is more than just an instructor—he holds a degree in the Biomechanics of Surfing, which deepens his teaching approach by helping students understand how to effectively use their muscles and body to master both sports. This expertise makes his lessons incredibly beneficial for individuals of all skill levels, from novices to those looking to perfect their technique.
In addition to skate surfing, the hotel provides a range of other engaging activities. For those interested in wellness, yoga sessions are available, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating practice with breathtaking views of the coast. The hotel also caters to roller skating enthusiasts, with dedicated facilities and a friendly atmosphere that invites guests to enjoy this fun and energetic activity.
The activities at You and the Sea are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ensure that every guest finds something enjoyable and memorable during their stay. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the hotel’s diverse offerings provide ample opportunities to explore and enjoy.
Wellness and Relaxation
The wellness facilities at You and the Sea Hotel are designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa area is a true haven of tranquillity, featuring a beautifully appointed sauna and an opulent Turkish bath. These wellness spaces are meticulously designed with a keen eye for both comfort and aesthetic appeal, ensuring that every guest enjoys a soothing and revitalising experience.
The sauna, which also includes two massage rooms and an aromatic steam room, is an oasis of warmth and serenity. It offers a peaceful environment where you can unwind, melt away tension, and let go of the stresses of daily life.
Adjacent to the sauna, the Turkish bath offers a deeply restorative experience. The steam room, adorned with intricate tilework and bathed in soft, ambient lighting, creates a tranquil atmosphere that encourages complete relaxation. The gentle steam and warm surroundings help to ease muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote a profound sense of well-being—perfect for unwinding after a day spent surfing the waves of Ericeira.
Warmth and Personal Touches
What truly distinguishes You and the Sea is its exceptional service and the personal touches that create a welcoming, home-away-from-home atmosphere. The warmth and attentiveness of the staff are evident from the moment you arrive. They go above and beyond to ensure that every guest’s needs are met with genuine care and hospitality.
Small, thoughtful touches—like a welcome sign with your name, homemade cookies waiting in your room and positive WhatsApp messages—enhance the personalised experience, adding a special charm to your stay. These gestures reflect the hotel’s dedication to making every guest feel valued and at home, further elevating the overall appeal of the property.
Overall, You and the Sea Hotel in Ericeira offers a luxurious and unique coastal retreat that combines exceptional design, comfort, and memorable experiences. With its beautiful interiors, excellent amenities, and attentive service, the hotel provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, indulging in delectable Portuguese cuisine, or engaging in exciting activities, You and the Sea ensures an unforgettable stay in one of Portugal’s most picturesque coastal towns.
For more information visit HERE
You and the Sea Ericeira
Address: R. das Silvas 2, 2655-431 Ericeira, Portugal
Phone: +351 261 243 370
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
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