Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ESTREMADURA
Running up the Atlantic coast from the mouth of the Rio Tejo almost to the Rio Mondego,
Estremadura has long been a land of plenty, its rolling hills and valleys offering up some of
Portugal's richest farmland. For proof, visit the elaborate kitchens that fattened up the
monks at Alcobaça's extraordinary monastery. The coast is blessed with miles-long strands
of beach, which are also home to some of Europe's best surf waves.
Estremadura earned its name the same way as Spain's Extremadura: for a time, it repres-
ented the furthest reaches of the Reconquista.
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Ericeira
POP 10,260
Picturesquely draped across sandstone cliffs above the blue Atlantic, sunny, whitewashed
Ericeira is popular with
lisboêtas
seeking a quick weekend getaway. It's equally renowned
for spectacular ocean vistas and excellent seafood restaurants and is also a mecca for
surfers, who come here for the great waves and camaraderie. The town's old centre is
clustered around Praça da República, with the sprawl of newer development spreading
south and north.
