If the Silver Coast is the real Portugal then the seaside town of Nazaré is perhaps what epitomizes the region as a whole. Based around a centuries-old fishing village, and built on and around majestic white cliffs, its beach front is lined with inviting coffee shops, bars and traditional seafood restaurants.

Nazaré has recently become famous among the world’s surfing community for its record breaking waves, but it has long been popular with visitors for many other reasons. The golden beaches and breathtaking scenery aside it also hosts some of Portugal’s biggest and best New Year’s celebrations. Thousands of people flock to the beach to enjoy the live music and spectacular fireworks display.

And in the spring, everything stops for Carnaval. For about a week an amazingly festive party atmosphere takes the whole place over: from the youngest to the oldest the residents dress up in colourful and crazy costumes, decorate huge floats and parade through the streets drinking and dancing.

It’s really quite a sight to see. And if you want to step back and view it from a distance, you can take the funicular railway up to the nearby cliff-top village of Sitio. This charming area is home to a beautiful church, quaint traditional cafes and restaurants, and even a bullring; and, of course, it offers breathtaking views all year round.

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