Nazare, Alcobaca and Batalha

Dermot in Sitio overlooking Nazare

Nazare 

We settled into Orbitur Valado campsite outside of Nazare. The tall pines cast wispy shadows and a cool breeze blew through the hilly campsite. It felt very peaceful and mild compared to Lisbon and that was just what was needed.

Black Virgin in Sitio

We soon headed for Sitio which is on a high bluff above the beach. Said to be crowded in summer, there were relatively few people today so we enjoyed the stunning views from our rocky perch. We visited its church with its famous "Black Virgin" and read the story of its miraculous discovery.  

A stroll through the town provided great views of the beach below and the funicular that runs between the two.  There were women dressed in their distinctive skirts with colorful petticoats, embroidered aprons and shawls who were selling nuts from stands in the square. 

Our photos here - click on the "i" in a circle for info.

Then we went in search of parking close to the beach. When a sign on the road indicated motorhomes weren't allowed, I suggested we were really more of a van and Dermot grumbled that I was a bad influence on him. It turned out that many motorhome drivers ignored the sign and were even wild camping in the lot. Vindicated!

Woman in traditional dress, not selling anything.

Strolling down the pretty beach we came upon a display of historic boats, fish drying racks (still in use), a beach soccer tournament, women in traditional skirts and shawls (sometimes on their heads) and dramatic views where the beach meets the cliff. 

Here is Rick Steves' article on this area. I couldn't say it better.

This beach town seemed to have so much to offer!  Though we weren't here at the right time of year to witness it (October-March), this area has waves up to 100 feet tall and surfers come here from all over the world for a chance to compete.

We explored some back streets and had dinner in a recommended restaurant. This is Cataplana -fish, clams, mussels, shrimp, onions, peppers and tomatoes served with rice and a vino verde to wash it down. Delicious! We even took the leftovers "home" and had it reheated the next night.  

Alcobaca and Batalha

The next day we headed to two small towns in the area, both known for their monasteries.

There's so much history here, I can't do it justice so I'm adding these links:

Alcoba Monastery

Batalha Monastery

I'm still in catch-up mode on my posts so bear with me.

Next: Coimbra