Discover Nazaré by Motorhome : Complete Guide
Introduction
When we talk about Portugal, we often think of Lisbon, Porto or the Algarve. But do you know Nazaré? A little gem on the west coast of Portugal, it is a must-stop for road trip enthusiasts and campervan travelers. In this article, we will introduce you to Nazaré, its campervan parking spots, its gastronomy, and the activities not to be missed, as we had the chance to spend a day in this city full of surprises, lows, but also highs, you will understand why.
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What is Nazaré in Portugal?
Nazaré is a picturesque small town located on the Atlantic coast of Portugal. It is particularly famous for its giant waves that attract surfers from all over the world. It is a destination of choice for those looking to combine history, culture, nature, and water sports.
History of Nazaré
Historically, Nazaré was a small fishing village. Its name comes from the Hebrew word meaning “guardian”. According to legend, the Virgin Mary protected a monk who had been caught in a violent storm at sea near Nazaré. Today, the city is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions and modernity.
Geographical location and climate
Nazaré, a coastal city in Portugal, is known for its beautiful beaches and giant waves. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. The maximum temperature in Nazaré averages 20°C throughout the year, ranging from 14°C in January to 26°C in August. It rains an average of 841mm per year, with a minimum of 7mm in July and a maximum of 120mm in November.
When to travel to Nazaré on a road trip?
The climate is pleasant for a trip to Nazaré from March to November, but the weather is really ideal from June to September. For swimming, the best period for a suitable water temperature is from May to November. Here is a summary table of the average weather conditions per month: Here is a summary table of average weather conditions by month:
| Month | Average temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Weather | Opinions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9°/14° | 107 | ☔️ | Unfavorable |
| February | 9°/15° | 103 | ☔️ | Unfavorable |
| March | 10°/17° | 93 | ☀️ | Favorable |
| April | 12°/18° | 78 | ☀️ | Favorable |
| May | 14°/21° | 60 | ☀️ | Favorable |
| June | 16°/23° | 23 | ☀️ | Ideal |
| July | 18°/25° | 7 | ☀️ | Ideal |
| August | 17°/26° | 8 | ☀️ | Ideal |
| September | 17°/26° | 42 | ☀️ | Ideal |
| October | 16°/23° | 106 | ☀️ | Favorable |
| November | 12°/17° | 120 | ☀️ | Favorable |
| December | 10°/15° | 101 | ☔️ | Unfavorable |
In conclusion, if you plan to visit Nazaré, the summer months are the ideal time to enjoy the good weather and the sea. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, the spring and autumn months also offer pleasant weather conditions.
Nazaré, this beautiful destination, is especially famous as a surfer’s paradise, as it is here that the highest waves in the world break. But here’s the thing, when you arrive in the city center, you are far from being overwhelmed by this surfing atmosphere. And for a good reason, the surfers’ beach is not in the heart of the city. What a surprise to discover a seafront as peaceful as a lake, when we were sold the surfer’s paradise!
But don’t worry, the long-awaited surf beach is only a funicular ride away. This picturesque journey offers breathtaking views, introduces you to the architectural gems of the city, and finally drops you off at the gates of the surfing paradise. Get ready for an adventure!
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Spots for sleeping and campervan service areas in Nazaré
Nazaré offers several places where you can park your campervan for the night. However, it should be noted that campervan parking is prohibited in certain parts of the city.
- 📍 Nazaré – 5 Rua Maritony: A quiet place to spend the night and park, without additional services. (Google map )
- 📍 Nazaré – Rua 25 de Abril: A commercial car park where we spent the night. It is a good solution when you see that campervans are prohibited in all directions. (Google map)
- 📍 Nazaré – 18 Largo da Fonte Velha: Parking spaces for 3 or 4 vans on the street, no services except public toilets on the small square 2 minutes away. It is a very quiet place to spend the night. (Google Map)
Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to spend the night in Nazaré. Free spots for campervans are quite rare and therefore often crowded, even in December, during our visit to this charming town. However, to enjoy the day, we opted for a parking lot on land, which offered reassuring and secure tranquility.
What to eat in Nazaré and where to eat?
Nazaré is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes, sourced from local fishing. Bars and restaurants line the seafront, offering a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes. From fish soup to seafood grills, you will find tasty and diverse gastronomy.
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We also tried the culinary experience offered by Gaivota restaurant, a charming establishment located in the heart of the city. This place honors the rich Portuguese culinary tradition with a delicious menu. You can expect an abundance of grilled meats, fish, seafood, and other succulent delights, straight from the neighboring ocean. A true treat for the senses!
Watch the Vanlife video on visiting Nazaré
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What to do in Nazaré?
Nazaré has a lot to offer travelers. The city is known for its impressive waves, some reaching up to 30 meters high. It is a true surfer’s paradise and an impressive spectacle for spectators. You can also take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, visit the Surf Museum, or climb the Farol da Nazaré to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the ocean. Nature lovers can walk along the beach or go hiking in the surrounding hills.
Conclusion: Why visit or return to Nazaré?
Nazaré offers a unique combination of culture, history, gastronomy, and outdoor activities. Whether you are a surf enthusiast, a food lover, or a culture enthusiast, Nazaré has something to offer. Moreover, despite its growing popularity, the city has managed to preserve its authenticity and charm. The only downside for campervan travelers is the parking restriction in certain parts of the city. But once you find your spot, you will fall in love with Nazaré and only want to come back.
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