The name of your accommodation(s)

Ericeira Prime Villas

Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

I’m Rui, a Civil Engineer, and my entire family is from Ericeira. I worked in Portugal, Spain, Algeria, Timor, and the United States, but in 2019, I left my job to dedicate myself fully to our family project: Ericeira Prime Villas. I’m married to Catarina, and we have three children – Vasco, Joana, and João. We opened our hotel in 2021, and it has been an incredible experience.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our customers. Would you like to tell us more about yourself? For example: your interests, free time activities, work, family, holidays?

Although I love the sea and nature, much of my time is spent with my family and dogs. The rest is devoted to our project and ensuring our guests feel at home and very welcome. I truly enjoy welcoming people and sharing the best of what Ericeira has to offer.

When and in what way did this property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

As a Civil Engineer, I traveled extensively around the world. Each time I returned to Ericeira, I felt inspired to share its beauty and charm with others. This led to the idea of creating a project from scratch, reflecting our vision, and showcasing Ericeira with the quality and comfort that we believe guests deserve.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

We opened in 2021, and daily maintenance is a top priority. The decoration was entirely designed by my wife Catarina and my mother-in-law, with no two villas being alike.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

Since I chose to dedicate myself 100% to this project, it has become everything to me alongside my family. It represents our dreams, efforts, and commitment to providing the best experience for our guests.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

Our property offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere. It’s just a five-minute walk from the center of Ericeira, but it feels private and serene, providing the best of both worlds.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

I love the exteriors, especially the swimming pools and gardens. These spaces transform the property into a little slice of paradise, where the villas seamlessly blend into the lush surroundings.

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

The proximity to Ericeira’s center, just a five-minute walk away, offers guests the flexibility to choose their vacation’s pace. They can relax in the gardens, swim in the pool, explore the village, or enjoy the sea and surf.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

Designing eco-friendly villas is challenging, given the diverse needs of guests, but we’re proud of how energy-efficient our villas are. Built with wood and featuring sedum-covered roofs, they maintain a pleasant interior temperature year-round, reducing the need for air conditioning.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

The desire to share Ericeira with the world and provide a high-quality experience inspired us.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

Imagine a painting with the sea at its center, surrounded by the charming fishing village of Ericeira, and framed by lush gardens bursting with flowers. At the heart of this scene, a cozy villa awaits, offering tranquility and comfort.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

Our villas stand out for their comfort, including high-quality beds, towels, and linens, as well as the beautifully maintained gardens. The proximity to Ericeira’s center adds to the unique charm of our property.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest?

In our first year, a couple traveling for three months booked a last-minute stay after their car broke down. When they entered the villa, they looked at each other and said, “We feel at home.” Moments like these make our work so rewarding.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation?

I hope they remember feeling warmly welcomed, having everything they needed, and wanting to return one day.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday? Your valuable tips will be featured on your accommodation's page!

Depending on the time of year, I recommend visiting our stunning beaches. Regardless of the season, don’t miss our delicious local cuisine – simple, fresh, and absolutely delightful.