Nazare

About

For much of its history, Nazaré was a tiny fishing village perched atop a cliff to protect its inhabitants from raids by everyone from the Vikings to Dutch pirates. In the 19th century, it finally expanded to its famed beachfront, which is now a popular weekend and holiday destination. But step back from the bright-colored umbrellas, and you’ll find a network of cobbled streets lined with pleasant colored houses, and maybe a traditionally-dressed fisherman roasting his latest catch. A modern funicular brings visitors up to the old town (Sítio) where you’ll find historic churches, such as the Shrine to Our Lady of Nazaré, where the town’s namesake Byzantine Black Madonna is enshrined. Venture from the picturesque town center to the lighthouse point for stupendous views of the coast. If you’re visiting in winter, you may catch Nazaré’s infamous 100-foot-high waves, and maybe see the brave surfers trying to tackle them.