Monday, 23 February

Today's Route  [Santa Cruz to Nazaré]

Today is a drive up Portugal’s Silver Coast from Santa Cruz to Nazaré, turning the journey into a scenic beach-and-clifftop road trip. Along the way we’ll stop in Peniche for rugged ocean views, wander the medieval streets of Óbidos, and catch lagoon-and-coast scenery at Foz do Arelho and Salir do Porto. We’ll break up the day with a seaside lunch in São Martinho do Porto before arriving in Nazaré for its dramatic cliffs and big-wave energy.

Cabo Carvoeiro Lighthouse  [Peniche]

Peniche is a rugged seaside town known for dramatic cliffs, salty ocean air, and a strong surf-and-fishing vibe. Cabo Carvoeiro Lighthouse sits on the edge of the cliffs with sweeping Atlantic views and some of the wildest scenery in the area. It’s an amazing spot for photos, fresh wind, and sunset watching.

Castelo de Óbidos  [Óbidos}

Castelo de Óbidos is a storybook medieval castle perched above the charming walled town of Óbidos. Its stone walls and towers offer beautiful views over terracotta rooftops and the rolling countryside beyond. Walking the ramparts feels like stepping back in time.

Miradouro da Foz do Arelho  [Foz do Arelho]

Foz do Arelho is a laid-back beach town where the calm lagoon meets the open Atlantic, making it great for both swimming and watersports. Miradouro da Foz do Arelho is a scenic viewpoint with wide, breezy views over the dunes, water, and coastline. It’s an ideal spot for sunset photos and a peaceful pause by the sea.

Pegadas de Dinossauro  [Salir do Porto]

Pegadas de Dinossauro in Salir do Porto is a fascinating spot where you can see ancient dinosaur tracks preserved in the coastal rock. It’s a quick but memorable stop that makes the landscape feel suddenly prehistoric. Visiting at low tide can make the footprints easier to spot and appreciate.

Lunch at Boca do Mar  [São Martinho do Porto]

Boca do Mar Restaurante in São Martinho do Porto is a relaxed seaside spot with beautiful views over the bay. It’s a great place for a classic Portuguese seafood lunch, especially grilled fish, arroz de marisco, and fresh shellfish. The easygoing atmosphere makes it perfect for lingering over a long meal by the water. 

Sítio District of Nazaré  [Nazaré]

The Sítio neighborhood of Nazaré sits high on the cliffs and is packed with history, legends, and some of the best viewpoints in town. You’ll find beautiful religious landmarks like the hilltop sanctuary and the tiny chapel tied to the town’s famous miracle story. It also mixes in modern Nazaré fun, from epic giant-wave lookouts to quirky statues and sweeping ocean views from the miradouro.

Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo & Farol da Nazaré  [Nazaré]

Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is a dramatic clifftop fortress overlooking Praia do Norte, famous for its connection to Nazaré’s giant waves. Right beside it, the Farol da Nazaré lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks on the coast, with incredible ocean views in every direction. It’s the perfect spot to feel the power of the Atlantic and imagine the world-record surf days. 

Gruta Forno de Orca  [Nazaré]

Gruta Forno de Orca is a striking natural rock formation on Nazaré’s wild Praia do Norte coastline. It’s known for its rugged, sculpted cliffs and the dramatic ocean backdrop that makes the whole area feel untamed. This is a great stop for photos and a quick dose of raw Atlantic energy.

Baloiço da Ladeira  [Nazaré]

Baloiço da Ladeira is a scenic swing spot that turns a simple moment into a postcard-worthy view. It’s perched in a way that lets you soak up the landscape while snapping a fun photo. A quick stop here adds a little playful magic to the day. 

Restaurante Tabernassa  [Nazaré]

Restaurante Tabernassa is a cozy, rustic spot that feels like a classic Portuguese hideaway. It’s a great place for hearty local dishes like grilled meats, bacalhau plates, and rich traditional stews. The warm atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring.

Stay at Villamar Style Maison  [Nazaré]

Villamar Style Maison in Nazaré is a stylish, modern stay with a calm and comfortable vibe. It’s a great base for exploring both the beach and the cliffside viewpoints without being far from the action. The clean design and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to unwind after a full day out.