From Nazaré to Peniche

We say goodbye to the unique classical charm of Figueira da Foz and head to a once small fishing town that became a major surf Mecca, Nazaré.

But Nazaré is more than its incredibly big waves. It is a deeply fascinating destination with countless secrets to unveil.

The canyon of Nazaré is a puzzling geological phenomenon which is 5.000 meters deep and about 230 km long. It is the cause of such incredibly monster waves, attracting top surfers from all over the world.

Put into perspective, the world’s highest building - Burj Khalifa, in Dubai - is 828 meters-high, the Grand Canyon is 1828 meter-high and the Canyon of Nazaré is 5.000 meters-deep at its deepest point! The Canyon of Nazaré amplifies waves, increasing their size, speed and power, before they reach the shore. And there is no limit to how high these monster waves can be.

This is why surfers from all over the world pilgrim to Praia do Norte every Winter. In
the Fort of S. Miguel Arcanjo are exposed the surfboards offered by these surfers who venture in the waves of the Praia do Norte.

The best view over Nazaré can be taken from Sítio district, where you can get to by funicular. This is the ideal spot to contemplate this absolutely unique coastal town, while feeling the wind on your face. The half-moon shaped beach of Nazaré is one of the most picturesque beaches in Portugal, seducing us with colourful beach huts, friendly dry fish sellers and dazzling natural beauty.

Fish drying in Nazaré is a remarkable trade mark of local identity. The origins of this tradition remain unknown, but this would be the best way to preserve food in times of scarcity. “Estindarte” has survived until the present day.

Leaving Nazaré, also an important water sports’ center, we head to the seashell shaped beach of São Martinho do Porto, ideal for families, located halfway between Nazaré and Caldas da Rainha.

The beach of Salir do Porto has the highest dune in Portugal, which is 50 meters-high! Seen from the bay of São Martinho do Porto, you can have an idea of the real extension of this breath-taking dune.

In the south we will find the one-and-only beach of Foz do Arelho, located near Caldas da Rainha, set in a unique natural landscape, near Óbidos Lagoon, a coastal lagoon that covers an area of 2600 ha.

This is the home of many migratory birds and aquatic biodiversity. In the cliffs of Foz do Arelho the wooden paths, designed by Nadia Schilling, perfectly set in the natural landscape, are a true must.

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