Parque de Santa Marta

Parque de Santa Marta is a public recreation park in the heart of Ericeira, a seaside town in the municipality of Mafra, in the Lisbon region of Portugal. It covers about 3.3 acres (a little over 1.3 hectares) and sits on Largo de Santa Marta, right beside a chapel built in 1760. It is a relaxed place to take a break from the beaches while keeping the ocean in sight.

Where is Parque de Santa Marta?

The park is in Ericeira, roughly 50 kilometres northwest of Lisbon, on high ground above the Atlantic. From its terraces you can see the Furnas area and Praia do Sul beach. Ericeira itself is known as Europe's only World Surfing Reserve, so the park suits anyone who would rather watch the waves from above than face them.

What is there to do?

The park mixes green space with sports and cultural facilities. On site you will find:

• a skate park, with equipment available to rent,
• tennis courts and a squash room,
• a mini golf course,
• a playground and recreation area for children,
• a music room,
• an amphitheatre overlooking the sea.

There are also shaded green corners for walking or reading, plus cafés, a bar and a restaurant where you can eat and drink with a view of the surroundings.

Who is it for?

Families with children will appreciate the playground and open lawns. Active visitors and teenagers can use the skate park, courts and mini golf. Travellers without a fixed plan will find benches, shade and a viewpoint over the coast, and anyone interested in outdoor events can check the programme for the amphitheatre and music room.

When to go

Ericeira has a mild Atlantic climate, so the park is pleasant for much of the year. In summer many people combine a stroll here with time at the beach, while in the quieter months it is a calm spot with an ocean outlook. Towards evening, when the sun sits lower over the water, the panorama across Furnas and Praia do Sul is at its best.

Combining the park with the town

Because the park is in the centre of Ericeira, it is easy to pair with a walk through the old town, the fishing harbour and nearby beaches. The Santa Marta chapel next door dates from the 18th century and adds a small historical stop. The easiest way to arrive is on foot, and walking through the green areas needs no ticket, although some sports facilities may charge for use.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parque de Santa Marta the same as the park in Madrid? No. The name is easy to confuse with the Parque de Santa María metro station in Madrid, but this park is in Ericeira, Portugal.

Where exactly is it? On Largo de Santa Marta in central Ericeira, next to a chapel from 1760.

Is there anything for children? Yes, the park has a playground and recreation area.

Can I get food and drink? Yes, there are cafés, a bar and a restaurant on site.

Which sports are available? Tennis, squash, mini golf and skating at the skate park, with equipment rental.