Nazaré

Introducing Nazaré

The most scenic of the region’s coastal towns, Nazaré is an uncanny combination of fishing village and cheery, cheesy beach resort. Its grid of extra-narrow streets forces locals and tourists into remarkable intimacy.

In fact, the whole place is crammed to bursting in July and August – including the extra-wide sweep of beach. But even when they’re outnumbered by tourists, the town’s womenfolk won’t let you forget who’s boss. Many still wear traditional costumes of short but voluminous skirts and brightly embroidered tops. They patrol the narrow streets with admirable swagger, touting quartos (private rooms) and selling dried fruits and nuts along the oceanfront promenade.

The old town is tucked up against honey-coloured cliffs at the north end of the beach. A funicular climbs to the cliff’s edge, affording sweeping views as well as access to Promon-tório do Sítio, the town’s original site.

Last updated: Sep 29, 2008