This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Peniche.
Peniche is a bustling little surf town about an hour north of Lisbon.
It's the perfect town to visit to escape from the hustle and bustle of Portugal's larger cities and the perfect place to just relax on the long stretch of beaches in between Peniche and the neighbouring town of Baleal.
But be warned the water can get a little chilly.
The town is also fairly compact, so you can easily explore Peniche on foot and enjoy the many great food establishments and the many year-round events that Peniche has to offer. Peniche is also a great base to explore some of the nearby fishing towns and islands, like Nazare and Berlangas Island (only accessible in Summer). The town is easily reached by bus from most major cities in Portugal and has direct links to Lisbon and Porto.
There is a range of great hostels in Peniche -- some are right in the heart of the town with all the benefits of being in a beach town but still being close to transportation; others are little further afield in the town of Baleal.
Some are even right on the beach, so there's no excuse to miss the gorgeous Portugese sunshine.
Peniche is a great place to try out surfing if you have never given it a go, as most Peniche hostels offer lessons at a rate affordable for backpackers, or at least are associated with a company that can help you out.
Ferrel vs Peniche vs Baleal Island
There is three main towns in the area. Ferrel, Peniche and Baleal Island. On this listing you find all accommodations listed in Peniche. It is much easier this way to compare. Please use the filter to check for the different towns.
It really depends on what you want to do here. All towns are well connected.
Ferrel Town and Ferrel Hostels
The seaside parish of Ferrel, located in Peniche, Portugal, is built on a rocky peninsula known for long, picturesque beaches and consistent wind and waves. Traditionally, these waters were important for local fisheries, but more recently have been a big draw for surfers from around the world.
Recognized as a “true Mecca of surfing,” Ferrel is definitely the surf capital of Portugal. Since the town is located on a peninsula, it is surrounded by potential surf spots with varied swell and wind direction, providing fantastic conditions for both experienced surfers and beginners looking to get a little practice. There are a number of surf camps and schools in the area, and recently hosted the World Championship Tour of the World Surf League.
Staying at a hostel or hotel in Ferrel is a great way to explore the western tip of the Peniche Peninsula. Accommodation can be found ranging from spa resorts to hostels full of surfers – depending on what kind of experience visitors are hoping to have during their stay in Ferrel. Even if you’re not interested in surfing, the hostels here offer a perfect opportunity to get a feel for this beautiful seaside town.
A short ferry ride away, visitors here can explore one of the world’s first nature reserves – the Berlengas islands, located only 10km out from the peninsula. The peninsula itself is full of landmarks to check out, with a busy harbour, old chapels, white windmills, and expansive rocky, beaches. The land formation that houses the town of Ferrel is considered a unique example of Toarcian turnover by many geologists, remnants from the Early Jurassic worldwide extinction.
There are daily buses running between Lisbon and Peniche, and taxis are available to bring visitors to the village of Ferrel. Car rentals are also a great option for travelers in this part of Portugal.
Written by local enthusiast for Peniche hostels
Keppers
