Nazare Fisherman Village – A Gem of Portugal

Welcome to Nazare, a picturesque fisherman village located on the stunning coast of Portugal. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and world-renowned waves, Nazare offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and thrilling adventures. Let’s dive into the top things to do, a glimpse into the town’s history, and the incredible world records created by the powerful waves of Nazare.

Top Things to Do in Nazare

• 1. Enjoy the Beach: Nazare boasts beautiful sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks along the shore. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax and soak up the sun’s rays.
• 2. Witness the Giant Waves: Nazare is famous for its colossal waves, attracting surfers and thrill-seekers from all over the world. Head to Praia do Norte to witness the power and beauty of these gigantic waves.
• 3. Explore the Old Town: Take a stroll through the charming narrow streets of Nazare’s old town, where you’ll find traditional houses, local shops, and delightful restaurants serving fresh seafood.
• 4. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazare: This iconic religious site overlooks the village and offers panoramic views of the coastline. Admire the beautiful architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance.
• 5. Discover the Nazare Lighthouse: Climb up the lighthouse for a panoramic view of Nazare and its surroundings. The view from the top is truly breathtaking and provides an excellent photo opportunity.
• 6. Indulge in Local Cuisine: Nazare is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes. Don’t miss the chance to savor fresh fish, grilled sardines, and the famous caldeirada, a traditional Portuguese fish stew.

A Glimpse into Nazare’s History

Nazare’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements found in the region since prehistoric times. Over the centuries, the village developed into a significant fishing port, known for its brave fishermen who ventured into the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

The cultural heritage of Nazare is deeply rooted in its fishing traditions. The women of Nazare, known as “as varinas,” would wear traditional colorful skirts and seven gold chains, symbolizing the days of the week, while selling fish at the local market. These traditions are still celebrated today, offering visitors a glimpse into the village’s past.

Breaking Big Wave World Records

Nazare is world-famous for its enormous waves, attracting professional surfers and adrenaline junkies seeking the ultimate challenge. In recent years, the village has witnessed several big wave world records being shattered.

In 2011, Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara rode a massive 78-foot wave in Nazare, setting the world record for the largest wave ever surfed. This achievement put Nazare on the map as one of the premier surfing destinations globally, drawing more thrill-seekers and surfing enthusiasts to its shores.

The record was further broken in 2017 when Brazilian surfer Rodrigo Koxa surfed an incredible 80-foot wave, solidifying Nazare’s reputation as the home of awe-inspiring waves and extreme surfing.

Conclusion

Nazare, with its captivating beauty and thrilling waves, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion. From lounging on the sandy beaches to exploring the rich history of the village, there is something for everyone in Nazare. Don’t miss the chance to witness the power of the ocean and embrace the charm of this fisherman village.

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Gonzalo

Founder & Owner at The Lisbon Guide

20 Years Experience
Travel Advisor & Passionate for Portugal

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Passionate traveler, travel planner, private tour guide, and travel article writer in Portugal.
Owner of The Lisbon Guide with more than 250.000 pages visited every year (5 million views in 12 years)
 
I'm based in Lisbon/Portugal and experienced in travel planning, tour guiding, and entrepreneurship since 1996, and guiding customers for over 20 years across Portugal. Helping customers from all over the world, planning their stay in Portugal. I'm also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide, assisting thousands of travelers yearly to plan their perfect trip.

*Disclaimer: All articles on this website express solely my opinion, and some services can be provided directly by myself, or through any partner.

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