Nazaré brings together the phenomenon of the Nazaré Canyon with big waves, maritime culture and historic buildings. When looking for a hotel in Nazaré, it helps to first choose the focus of your stay: geology and the sea, maritime tradition, or the history of buildings and pilgrimages. These themes tell different sides of the place.
The Nazaré Canyon and the big waves
The Nazaré Canyon is a geomorphological phenomenon of tectonic origin and is linked to the Nazaré-Pombal Fault. The canyon begins to take shape about 500 metres offshore. Its significance is also evident in the water: it brings nutrient- and plankton-rich waters to the surface, thereby supporting a diverse fauna that includes economically important species. Geology and marine life are therefore part of the explanation for Nazaré’s special relationship with the sea.
The big waves and surfing in Nazaré are also linked to the underwater canyon, which makes their formation possible. Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is a viewpoint overlooking the big waves at Praia do Norte. Its history dates back to 1577: under the rule of D. Sebastião, construction began to defend the bay against attacks by Algerian, Moroccan, Dutch and Norman pirates. Inside are the Centro Interpretativo do Canhão da Nazaré, the Surfer Wall and temporary exhibitions. Exhibition content may change; if you want to see a particular exhibition, check the current programme in advance.
Maritime culture and Arte Xávega
In Sítio, the Museu Dr. Joaquim Manso explores the historical and cultural identity of the Nazaré region, with a particular focus on maritime culture. On display are miniatures of traditional boats from Nazaré. Traditional clothing is presented in work, festive and mourning versions; characteristic fabric patterns, decorative richness and the wearing of several skirts by women are also among the details shown.
Nazaré’s traditional fish sellers are associated with the seven-skirt costume. A seasonal encounter with this maritime tradition is Arte Xávega: on Saturdays during the summer months, in the late afternoon along the seafront promenade, you can watch nets laden with fish arrive from the sea as the women call out their wares. These details about timing and location provide a practical reference when planning your trip.
Pilgrimage and historic transport heritage
Construction of the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré dates back to the 14th century, when King Dom Fernando made a pilgrimage to Senhora da Nazaré. The sanctuary attracts large pilgrimages every year, held on 8 September. If you want to experience this religious tradition, you can take the fixed date into account when choosing when to travel.
The Ascensor da Nazaré is also part of the historic heritage and is considered urban cultural heritage. Its route is 318 metres long and has a gradient of 42 percent. The Ascensor was inaugurated on 28 July 1889. The figures for length and gradient give a concrete impression of this infrastructure; the transport system’s long history also offers another way to explore Nazaré’s architectural and cultural history.
A coastal route by bike
Those who want to combine Nazaré with a longer cycling route will find a 65-kilometre cycle path along the coast. It runs from Nazaré to the protected Praia do Osso da Baleia near Figueira da Foz and passes through the Pinhal de Leiria. Alongside the themes of the sea, culture and history, this offers a route option for cyclists. As infrastructure conditions can change, it is worth checking the current route conditions before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Famalicão, Valado Dos Frades, Serra Da Boavista.
Go to the main travel overview: Nazaré.
