Immerso Hotel
Portugal
Immerso Hotel
Rua Bica da Figueira, Marvão, Santo Isidoro, Ericeira, Portugal
www.immerso.pt/en/
HOTEL INFORMATION
Group
N/A
Shareholders
Privately owned
Date of Creation
N/A
Hotel General Manager
Gonçalo Menezes
Gonçalo Menezes joined the Inspire Capital Group in 2016 as Art Director, drawing on his background in architecture from Lusíada University.
In this role, he developed the visual identity and branding of several Group companies, as well as overseeing architectural projects and construction. He was also involved in developing the Immerso Hotel, from the initial concept and architectural design to construction and brand positioning.
In 2020, he completed his Hotel Management training at AHP. With the opening of Immerso in 2022, he took on the role of manager, coordinating operations, teams, and suppliers.
In 2024, he became Director of Immerso Hotel, taking responsibility for strategy, operational management, results, and consolidating the unit’s luxury positioning.
Hotel Positioning
5 Star Boutique Hotel
Design Hotels
Development Strategy
Immerso began operations in 2022, a year focused on consolidating operations, stabilising teams, and establishing the concept in the market. Despite it being the opening year, there was significant early interest from international markets, particularly the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands, all of which showed a strong affinity with the hotel’s positioning. In 2023, the hotel entered an initial phase of maturity, significantly strengthening its international profile in the process. Foreign markets came to represent the majority of overnight stays, with the United States and the United Kingdom standing out. This year, Immerso joined Design Hotels, a Marriott brand, which increased its international visibility, particularly among travellers who value boutique and design properties. Meanwhile, the website has established itself as the primary international sales channel. Pricing policies have been adjusted and products have been developed to target high-demand global segments such as wellness, weddings, active travel and MICE.
In 2024, the strategy focused even more intensely on foreign markets, with digital campaigns segmented by country, a growing presence in international channels, and closer relations with global trade partners. Priority markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Brazil and Benelux were given greater attention, alongside fam trips, press trips, inspection visits and partnerships with DMCs and luxury operators. The hotel reinforced its reputation, improved international traffic and increased the consistency of its products and services. In 2025, Immerso further consolidated its global relevance by expanding its network of travel advisors, premium operators and international wedding planners. The potential of the destination’s nature, wellness retreats, international weddings and relaxed luxury segments was confirmed, and the hotel began to adjust its prices, communication and products with greater precision and alignment with global trends.
Immerso will enter a more ambitious phase of international expansion by 2026, supported by its integration into Virtuoso and its application to Serandipiens. The annual plan focuses on strategic markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Brazil, Switzerland and Belgium. Targeted campaigns and a presence at global trade fairs will be complemented by products geared towards the lifestyle of international travellers. Between 2022 and 2026, Immerso has therefore evolved from a newly established project into a competitive and recognised entity on the international stage, with a clear focus on the internationalisation and diversification of its target markets.
Immerso Hotel
History & Story
Immerso, first 5-star hotel, located in Ericeira World Surfing Reserve.
Outside surrounded by nature, in a green and cosy valley, with a wonderful view to the sea, based on eco-sustainability concepts.
Inside, elegant and relaxed, our 37 rooms seek the balance between comfort and refinement, always having nature as inspiration.
The Emme and Emme on Fire restaurants, with the signature of the renowned Chef Alexandre Silva, value local products and producers, oriented towards organic production.
Our Bars, perfect for enjoying a drink by the Pool, relaxing at sunset, or enjoying the stars.
At the Spa, the right context to find balance and renew energy, far from the hustle and bustle of the world, close to what matters.
Date Renewal
N/A
Date added extensions
N/A
Main Strengths, Special Touch
Close to the sea and nature;
Located in the First World Surfing Reserve;
Focused on Slow Living.
Location
Ericeira is located on the west coast of Portugal, in the municipality of Mafra, around 50 kilometres from Lisbon. This seaside community is a haven not only for surfers, but also for local and international tourists. Despite its modern popularity, Ericeira retains its roots as a traditional Portuguese fishing village with a history dating back to the 12th century.
Since being recognised as a World Surfing Reserve in 2011, Ericeira has experienced a revival, attracting a growing number of wave enthusiasts. This influx of visitors has prompted the development of accommodation options, transforming the village into a popular destination with a diverse range of offerings that cater to the local surf culture. Remarkably, it has managed to preserve its original characteristics and unique atmosphere. The village’s beaches are renowned for their surfing conditions and are considered to be among the best in Europe.
Ericeira boasts a rich cultural and natural heritage, including landmarks such as the Church of Misericórdia, the Church of Saint Peter and the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve Interpretation Centre. Natural resources such as the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve and sea urchins also contribute to the area’s unique identity.
Fishing remains a fundamental part of the local community’s identity, with the fishing port and small vessels occupying a central place in the urban core, showcasing the enduring significance of fishing. The historic centre, characterised by houses painted in shades of blue and white, reflects the village’s centuries-old fishing heritage, exuding charm with its decorative and architectural details. Ericeira is notable as the first place in Europe and the second worldwide to be recognised as a World Surfing Reserve. to be recognised as a World Surfing Reserve. The criteria for this recognition included the quality of the waves, the cultural importance of local surfing, environmental sensitivity and strong community mobilisation.
Initiatives such as the Sea Urchin International Festival and the Portuguese Surf Film Festival aim to promote local products, support the economy and combat seasonal tourism. By hosting national and international surf events, Ericeira aims to capitalise on tourist demand, support local trade sustainably, boost the economy, and increase its global recognition as a surfing destination.
Key sites/activities in the area
Beaches & Nature:
• 11km of beaches;
• Walking paths along the cliffs.
Historic Centre & Culture:
• Explore the historic town centre of Ericeira, with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, local shops and cafés, and traditional Portuguese charm;
• The « Largo do Jogo da Bola » is a central square which is perfect for walking around;
• The Chapel of São Sebastião is a small historic church located in the town centre.
Parks and outdoor activities:
• Santa Marta Park: a green space for walking, picnics and relaxation;
• Ericeira is Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve, with multiple world-class surf spots and surf schools;
• Sunset viewpoints: ideal spots for enjoying a drink while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
Food & Local Life
• Enjoy fresh fish and seafood at the seaside restaurants — Ericeira is well known for its seafood cuisine.
Day trips and nearby attractions:
• Tapada Nacional de Mafra – a natural park with trails for walking and cycling;
• The Mafra National Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Ericeira and is perfect for a half-day trip.
Fun Facts
• It is Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve and the second in the world since 2011;
• It boasts a high concentration of world-class surf breaks along a short stretch of coastline;
• Ericeira is a traditional fishing village famous for its fresh fish and seafood;
• The name Ericeira is believed to come from the word for sea urchin;
• It was the last place in Portugal where the royal family stayed before going into exile in 1910;
• It is also known for its spectacular Atlantic sunsets, facing west over the ocean;
• Despite its small size, Ericeira has over ten beaches nearby;
• The town has strong historical ties to the sea, navigation and octopus fishing;
• The traditional houses are white with blue trims, which is typical of the town;
• It is located close to palaces, convents and natural parks, such as UNESCO World Heritage Mafra Palace and Tapada Nacional;
Children’s Corner
We welcome children at our hotel, but we do not have a Kids Club.
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
Number of suites: 2 – Suite & Suite Immerso
Number of Luxury rooms:
• 8 Nature Rooms
• 16 Inspire Rooms
• 6 Ocean Rooms
• 5 Ocean Superior Rooms
Number of rooms, (keys) in all: 37
Restaurants & Bars
Emme Restaurant (main restaurant)
• Consulting chef: Alexandre Silva (Michelin-starred chef)
• A restaurant that respects the region’s recipes and gives them a new shape. A casual, fun, uncompromising proposal with a spontaneous vibe to be discovered. Enjoy your meal in a dining room designed for casual dining or on the adjoining veranda, both with wonderful views of the sunset.
Opening Hours:
• Breakfast – From 07.30 am to 10:30 am
• Lunch – From 12:00 pm to 03:00 pm
• Dinner – From 07:00 om to 10:00 pm
Emme on Fire Restaurant (Outdoor restaurant open between May and October, depending on weather conditions)
• Consulting chef: Alexandre Silva (Michelin-starred chef)
• From the charcoal grill or wood-fired oven come authentic dishes, perfect for summer afternoons spent outdoors. Lunches are extended with casual conversation and the peaceful view of the Ericeira valley and sea. A place to pause, live, and share.
Emme Bar
• A selection of Companhia Portugueza do Chá teas and the best signature cocktails make the bar the perfect spot at any time of day. The whiskey, cognac, and cigar menu makes the end of the day magical.
• Open every day from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Wellness
• SPA with 3 treatment rooms (1 treatment room for two people, with jacuzzi, and 2 treatment rooms for 1 person);
• Sauna, Turkish Bath and Sensory Bath;
• Gym open 24h;
• Heated outdoor swimming pool.
Corporate & Celebration Events
• A 56 sqm meeting room with a maximum capacity of 40 people in theatre style;
• Emme Restaurant or Emme on Fire Restaurant for meals.
Extra Notable Features
• Yoga Classes (available to our guests free of charge twice a week during low season, and every day during high season);
• Surf Classes;
• Golf Course (25 minutes away).
Hotel and restaurant Awards
• 2024 – Architectural Design – Hospitality Architecture category
• 2023 – The Soul of Lisbon Wines – Emme Restaurant
• 2024 – Boa Cama Boa Mesa – Suggested accommodation
• 2024 – Boa Cama Boa Mesa – Suggested restaurant
• 2024 – National Tourism Award – Sustainable Tourism
Number of employees
47