Nazaré is a renowned fishing village in Portugal, where the traditions of the sea shape everyday life. Fishermen here use barcos—traditional wooden boats with high, curved bows designed to face Atlantic waves. These boats, often brightly painted and adorned with protective symbols, are a distinctive part of the local landscape. The primary catch includes sardines, mackerel, and sea bass, with sardines being especially prized. Local women continue the custom of drying fish on racks along the beach, preserving Nazaré’s fishing heritage and providing fresh flavors for visitors to enjoy.
Start your journey at Nazaré’s beach, where the scent of the sea and the bustle of fresh seafood restaurants set the tone. From here, make your way to the historic funicular, a 19th-century marvel connecting the lower town to Sítio, the cliffside district perched high above.
At the top, visit Ermida da Memória, the small chapel tied to the legend of Dom Fuas Roupinho. In 1182, while chasing a deer on horseback, he narrowly avoided plunging off the cliff when he prayed to the Virgin Mary, who miraculously stopped his horse. Nearby, the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, built in the 16th century, stands as a guardian over Praia do Norte, where the world’s largest waves draw surfers from across the globe.
On your descent, stroll through the nostalgic streets of Nazaré’s lower town, where tiled facades, narrow alleys, and the rhythm of local life immerse you in the town’s enduring spirit. This walk captures Nazaré’s dual essence: the raw power of the ocean and the intimate charm of its community.