Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Trilho dos Coxos
★5.0(1 reviews)Adventure
🕑 2.5 to 4 hours depending on how much time you spend swimming and exploring👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Older children and teens will appreciate the full hike and swimming opportunities, while younger kids (6-8) can tackle shorter sections with plenty of breaks. The terrain requires steady walking and attention to coastal paths, so very young children may need carriers or close supervision.
About
Trilho dos Coxos offers families a stunning coastal hiking experience along Ericeira's dramatic Atlantic shoreline. This accessible trail combines breathtaking ocean views with the bonus of natural swimming spots, making it perfect for active families who want to explore Portugal's rugged coastline. The well-maintained paths are manageable for children, and the reward of cooling off in natural pools makes it an adventure kids will remember.
Highlights
- ✓Dramatic clifftop views of the Atlantic Ocean with opportunities to spot dolphins and seabirds
- ✓Natural tidal pools and swimming spots where kids can safely splash and explore marine life
- ✓Accessible coastal paths that wind through unique rock formations and coastal vegetation
- ✓Multiple photo-worthy viewpoints perfect for capturing family memories
- ✓Relatively quiet and uncrowded compared to busier tourist beaches
Pro Tips
- 1.Start early in the morning (8-9am) to avoid midday heat and have the trail mostly to yourselves, especially during summer months.
- 2.Bring sturdy water shoes for the whole family as the natural swimming spots have rocky entries, making them safer and more comfortable to explore.
- 3.Pack more water than you think you'll need, plus salty snacks. The coastal breeze can be deceiving about how much energy kids are using.
- 4.Download offline maps before you go as cell service can be spotty along the coastal sections. The trail markers are generally good but having backup navigation helps.
- 5.Parking is limited near the trailhead. Arrive before 10am or consider parking in Santo Isidoro village and walking to the start (adds about 10 minutes).
Best Time to Visit
Visit during spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) for perfect hiking weather and calmer seas for swimming. Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid weekend crowds. Summer offers warmest water temperatures but expect more visitors and intense midday sun.
What to Know
This is a free outdoor trail with no facilities, so come prepared with all supplies including water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats. The nearest restaurants and shops are in Santo Isidoro village or Ericeira town (about 10 minutes drive).
Seasonal Notes
Best visited April through October when weather is warmest and seas are calmer. Winter months (November-March) can be windy and rainy with rougher ocean conditions, though the trail remains accessible for experienced hikers. Summer (July-August) offers best swimming but brings more visitors and heat.
Nearby Eats
Head to Ericeira town (5km away) for family-friendly options like Prim (casual beachfront restaurant with grilled fish and simple kids' meals) or stop at a local pastelaria in Santo Isidoro village for fresh pasteis de nata and sandwiches to fuel up before or after your hike.
More Activities Near Ericeira
Activity
Pedra Lume Beach
Pedra Lume Beach is a gem for families seeking a safer beach experience near Lisbon. The sheltered cove provides calmer waters than many Atlantic beaches, making it ideal for children learning to swim or play in the ocean. Little explorers will delight in the natural rock pools teeming with marine life, while parents can relax knowing the protected bay offers gentler conditions.
Ice Cream
Gelataria Ericeira
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Gelataria Ericeira is a delightful traditional gelato shop in the heart of Ericeira's charming town center, offering homemade ice cream that will cool down little ones after a day exploring this coastal surf town. With family-friendly seating and authentic Portuguese flavors alongside classic favorites, it's the perfect spot to treat the kids while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Restaurant
O Forno da Encosta
$$
O Forno da Encosta is a welcoming family restaurant in the charming surf town of Ericeira, serving hearty traditional Portuguese dishes that appeal to both adventurous and picky eaters. With a dedicated kids menu, generous portions perfect for sharing, and a relaxed atmosphere where children are genuinely welcomed, it's an ideal spot for families to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine without the stress of fine dining formality.
Activity
Casa do Artesão
Casa do Artesão in the charming surf town of Ericeira offers hands-on creative workshops where kids can learn traditional Portuguese crafts alongside local artisans. Families can try their hand at pottery on the wheel, create painted tiles in the azulejo tradition, or make other authentic crafts in a welcoming studio environment that celebrates Portuguese culture.