OUR TEAM
Simon Angerer
Cycling and bike travel are my life and my passion.
I’ve explored Southern Europe, Eastern Europe, Morocco, and large parts of South America by bicycle. I’ve also led tours in the Alps, in the Algarve, and currently in Lisbon. In my life, I’ve never owned a car, but I’ve always had a bike. I take great joy in sharing my love for cycling—it keeps you fit, helps you discover your surroundings, and is environmentally friendly. Cycling is sometimes the fastest way to get from point A to point B, and always the best way to explore a destination.
I provide a bicycle garage that you can use freely, organize tours around Lisbon that you can join, and have some bikes available for rent. Additionally, I document my adventures through stories, photos, and impressions collected from my travels.
Even though I’m not a professional racer, I ride thousands of kilometers every year. I’m not a professional mechanic either, but once I fixed a broken bike using only a screwdriver and two stones. I’m simply an enthusiast who spends most of their time on a bike. Whatever you’re looking for, I can’t guarantee I can help, but I’m more than willing to try!
Pedro Tavares, Joaquim Pipio and Joao Santos – Surf school in Ericeira
The surf school is located in the heart of the village of Ericeira. It was founded by three friends who shared a common dream: to pass on the knowledge they had accumulated over years of surfing experience.
The main goal of the school is to practice and teach surfing in the best possible way, allowing students to either learn how to surf or improve their existing skills. Notably, the school is run by local surfers from Ericeira, who have a deep understanding of the area and extensive knowledge of the best surf spots, selecting the most suitable ones based on weather and surf conditions.
Their mission is to share knowledge and passion for surfing, so that others can experience the same joy they do. Whether for beginners or advanced surfers, they provide a unique and unforgettable experience, giving students an authentic insight into the vibrant surf culture.
All surf instructors are qualified and certified by the Portuguese Surf Federation. They hold the “Cédula de Treinador de Desporto” issued by the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth. These professionals are dedicated to connecting surf culture with nature, offering every student a truly memorable and distinctive experience.
Additionally, the school is fully compliant with accident and liability insurance regulations.
The surf school is located in the center of Ericeira, 38 km northwest of Lisbon, 20 km from Sintra, and 9 km from Mafra. The Mafra region is internationally known as Portugal’s “surf mecca” and is one of the best surf destinations in Europe. Furthermore, Save The Waves has certified Ericeira as the first World Surf Reserve in Europe and the second worldwide.
João Macedo
Turning people into surfers and surfers into athletes since 2000!
With our exclusive “7” teaching method, we develop new talent by teaching people of all ages the mindset and fundamental techniques of surfing. We offer an authentic and high-quality surfing experience. Our entire team is trained and certified in collaboration with the Portuguese Surf Federation and Universidade Lusófona.
Experience and explore the Portuguese coast, which offers ideal surfing conditions all year round. We place great emphasis on mobility to always find the best surf conditions for our students and provide them with new experiences and opportunities for growth. In addition, we educate all sports enthusiasts on the importance of environmental protection at beaches and coastal areas.
Julien Marmelo
I am the one who will guide you along the coast during your journey.
Born and raised in France in a Portuguese family, I moved to Portugal in 2017 after an extensive trip through Asia. In early 2018, I became a certified surf instructor to share my knowledge and passion with others.
That same year, I traveled to Sri Lanka to teach surfing and experience a new Asian culture I had never encountered before. After this journey, in 2019, I decided to open a hostel in Ericeira called Lagun Ericeira.
After four years filled with joy and encounters with incredible people, I wanted to offer my clients—who had become friends—new opportunities. This led to the creation of WavesFinder.
With WavesFinder, you have the freedom to surf either the North or South coast during your chosen trip, whenever you want.
Are you ready for your next adventure?
Lia Muczenski
I was born in 1964 in Stuttgart, Germany, and have been living in Portugal since 2006. At the age of 20, I began my journey in professional contemporary dance, during which I developed a deep understanding of the human body as a gateway to the soul. Since then, I have dedicated myself to supporting people’s healing processes through body work. I am a Body Worker and Psychotherapist, helping many individuals regain their full potential on a profound level.
As a Yoga teacher (Vinyasa Flow), I am well-trained and experienced as a counselor in Inner Child Therapy and Co-dependency, with additional knowledge in Family Constellations (Bert Hellinger) and Trauma Work (especially Somatic Experiencing according to Steven Levin). I specialize in working with people who have experienced early childhood trauma. My training also includes Holistic Massage, Body Work (Body-Mind Centering), and since 2011 I have been an Advanced Watsu Practitioner (Shiatsu in water).
Over the years, I have organized and led yoga retreats, meditation sessions, dance and movement retreats, and detox retreats in various locations across Europe.
I speak German, Portuguese, and English fluently.
Francisco Mendonça
Francisco is not only one of our most experienced guides, but his guidance is also a major advantage for the hikes he leads.
Armando Rodrigues - local partner in Flores and Corvo
We are a company committed to our clients, always offering the best options for activities and connection with nature during their stay on Flores and Corvo. We connect our clients in a unique and meaningful way, creating an unforgettable experience that exceeds expectations and links people and places through stories, culture, gastronomy, and information.
Isabel Andrade and Marla Castro – local partners in Madeira
Isabel and Marla specialize in creating unforgettable travel experiences, based on over 20 years of industry experience. The expert team carefully designs each itinerary to ensure a tailor-made experience that exceeds clients’ expectations. They place your wishes at the center and provide excellent service as well as personal support at every stage of your journey.
Zé Nuno und Jeffrey – Surf school in Aljezur
The surf school was founded in 2014 by Zé Nuno and Jeffrey, who run the school together with a small team of experienced instructors. They work exclusively in small teams to ensure personalized attention.
Zé Nuno has been surfing for over 25 years and teaching for 17 years. He is a Level 2 certified instructor by the Portuguese Surf Federation. He studied Tourism Management, loves tubing, and plays the didgeridoo. Originally from Porto, where he began teaching, he was captivated by the charms of Aljezur and has been living there since 2009.
Jeffrey was born in 1989 in Canada and moved to Aljezur in 1990, where he grew up and still lives today. He started surfing at the age of 15, and his favorite maneuvers are airs and tubes. In recent years, Jeffrey has worked as a certified Portuguese lifeguard on the beaches of Aljezur and is also a surf coach certified by the Portuguese Surf Federation.
Ivo Carmo – Surf School in Vila Nova de Milfontes
After many years of experience as a surfer and coach, he founded a surf school to offer a more exclusive service in Vila Nova de Milfontes. He knows the town like the back of his hand. As a child, he spent a lot of time here with his grandfather, who showed him the Mira River and the ocean, and shared many stories.
Ivo began surfing in 1993 as a child at Malhão Beach. He studied and lived in Lisbon and Berlin, earned a degree in Philosophy at the University of Lisbon, and published several books. He became a Level 2 certified coach by the Portuguese Surf Federation and is the President of the local surf association, Associação Foz do Mira (2018–2024), which promotes surfing in the community and raises awareness about environmental issues.
Paulo Medeiros – local partner in S.Miguel
Paulo is part of an experienced team of around 12 guides, trained at some of the best schools and capable of providing unique experiences across a variety of outdoor activities. Your safety is always ensured, and you can expect flexibility and great enthusiasm from them as they share the world of São Miguel Island. We believe this is what sets them apart and contributes to the success of the activities offered.
Their mission is to bring you São Miguel in an authentic and exciting way. Whether you are an experienced traveler or not, the tours provide a social and safe opportunity to explore diverse and untouched places. The friendly and flexible staff have extensive knowledge and expertise to make your experience truly exceptional.
Whether you are planning your first adventure or are already an experienced traveler, they help you discover the most amazing people, places, cultures, and landscapes of São Miguel. Whether you join a small group tour or create your own tailor-made adventure, we guarantee you will experience the world in a unique and, above all, enjoyable way.
