A quiet Portuguese town that’s home to some of the world’s biggest waves has become a must-visit for the most daring surfers.
Around 90 minutes’ drive north of Lisbon, Nazaré is an historic fishing village where fishmongers can still be spotted wearing traditional garb, seven skirts.
There are many reasons that tourists should visit the gorgeous coastal spot – including its long sandy half-moon shaped beach with bright awnings that contrast with acres of white sands.
But what the little town has become most famous for its Hawaii-esque gigantic waves – with Germany’s Sebastian Steudtner possibly surfing the tallest-ever wave recorded in the sport earlier this year.
The staggering mass of water measured 28.57m (94ft). It’s yet to be approved by the World Surf League but the current world-record height is 26.21m (86ft) – and was also set by Steudtner there in 2020.
The surfing season typically runs from October through to March and the weather remains pretty mild during that time, with a top temperature of 22C.
Tourism website Visit Portugal explains more about the pretty spot which also includes plenty of opportunities to try local cuisine in its many independent bars and restaurants.
It said: “This is the beach in Portugal that retains the more colourful fishing traditions, and it’s not uncommon to encounter fishmongers who still wear the traditional seven skirts.
“At the end of the afternoon on Saturdays during the summer months, don’t miss sitting on the seawall to watch the fascinating ‘Arte Xávega’ (Drag Nets) spectacle, in which nets laden with fish arrive from the sea and the women scream out their wares for sale. If you don’t understand the words, don’t worry – they use codes that often only they know.”
As well as lovely traditions, there are also fabulous natural landscapes on offer.
The website added: “Facing the sea on the right, you will see an impressive headland. This is Sítio, which provides one of the most famous views of the Portuguese coast.”
There are plenty of tourists who have made the trip and are giving the thumbs up to others pondering a visit on travel review website Tripadvisor. However, one sensible user warned that swimming in the sea should be avoided.
They said: “Unfortunately hardly swimmable due to strong currents, high waves and (therefor) red flags.
“The beach itself is beautiful with a playground, public toilets and great views of the ocean, waves and rock formations.
“It’s very mindful watching the waves crash ashore…!”
Another simply added: “Enchanting and mesmerising experience at this beach.”