Nazaré, a charming coastal town in Portugal, boasts a lively resort on the west coast of central Portugal with a vast crescent-shaped length of golden sand. The appearance and customs of the town’s residents reveal their Phoenician ancestry. Fishing men and women in the area are often seen wearing black stocking caps and plaid pants, while their female counterparts may wear black shawls and brightly embroidered aprons.
Nazaré is not only known for its beautiful beach and rich history but also for its world-renowned surfing. In 2011, Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara rode a record-breaking 78-foot wave off the coast of Nazaré, putting the town on the map for big-wave surfing. Since then, surfers from all over the world have flocked to Nazaré to test their skills on the massive waves. But even if surfing isn’t your thing, Nazaré offers plenty of other activities, such as exploring the town’s narrow streets, visiting the local market, and indulging in the delicious seafood cuisine.
If you’re planning a trip to Nazaré, there are plenty of things to do and see. The town received its name from a statue of the Virgin brought back from Palestine’s Nazareth by a monk in the fourth century. Today, modern-day Atlantic waves the size of multi-story parking garages frequently crash into the coast of Nazaré as winter swells arrive.
One of the top attractions in Nazaré is the old fishermen’s district, with its dense cluster of modest whitewashed homes lining lengthy passageways leading down to the shore. Numerous restaurants serving fish and seafood in this section of town are among the best in all of Portugal.
For breathtaking views of Nazaré’s dramatic Atlantic coast, head to Stio, a lofty location perched atop a cliff. It is best accessed via a 110-meter-high funicular railway. A strategically placed belvedere provides panoramic views of the town and beach.
According to legend, in the 12th century, a local horseman (a friend of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques) was about to fall into the waves below when the Virgin Mary intervened. On top of the cliff is a small chapel called the Ermida da Memória.
Finally, don’t miss the 17th-century church of Our Lady of Nazaré, with its two baroque bell towers and exquisite Dutch azulejo tiles. The church has an exquisite interior and a wonderful view of the sandy beach below. Nazaré is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to
Portugal. In addition to the church, Nazaré is also known for its world-renowned surfing waves, which attract surfers from all over the globe. The town has a charming atmosphere with narrow streets, traditional houses, and local markets selling fresh seafood. Visitors can also take a cable car up to the Sitio, a cliff-top area with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re a history buff, a surfer, or just looking for a picturesque coastal town to explore, Nazaré has something for everyone.
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