
Fátima and Nazaré: spiritual devotion, fishing traditions and the mecca of big wave riding
On this day trip we'll take you to the North West region of Portugal, to the village of Fátima, Portugal's most significant pilgrimage site for Catholics all around the globe and the fishing village of Nazaré, home to some of the biggest waves in the world and the the mecca of big wave riding.
We will start the day early and and roam to Fátima, the heart of Portuguese devotion and one of the world's most significant Catholic pilgrimage destinations. While in Fátima guests shall see the Sanctuary of Fátima, where the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity are located, as well as the Chapel of Apparitions, built where Virgin Mary appeared in 1917 (in case guests wish to do so and depending on the schedule of the day, it is possible to attend the mass in Fátima). This day trip offers both religious pilgrims and cultural travelers a chance to visit and experience the atmosphere of this special place.
From Fátima we'll head West to see the fishing town of Nazaré, by the Atlantic Ocean. We usually suggest having lunch here, as it is home to some of the freshest seafood in the country. After lunch, we'll go up to the clifftop to check the place where the legendary waves of Nazaré are breaking, at Praia do Norte, right next to the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo (depending on the season and swell predictions). In case we are lucky with the swell, this is a fabulous display of heroic courage of men taking off the overwhelming force of nature, with the massive waves formed by the canhão da Nazaré, its geologic underwater canon.
All day trips are private and their itineraries and schedules can be adjusted to the guests convenience. Don't hesitate to contact us so we can accomodate any special needs or preferences.