Nazaré in Two Hours: A Cliff-Top Walk with Calm Atlantic Views & Sea Cave Discovery
Nazaré was a quick stop on our coach trip from Lisbon to Porto. Some in the group went for lunch or even a swim (brave souls!), but I took the chance to explore on foot. What followed was a perfect under-2-hours loop packed with stunning, calm sea views, a fascinating sea cave, and a bit of local history. All without breaking a sweat.
⏱️ Nazaré 2-Hour Walking Route
Route: Miradouro do Suberco > Escultura “Veado” > Farol da Nazaré > Forno de Orca Cave > Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth > Capela de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré
Time: About 2 hours
Style: Loop, some hills and rocky paths
Good for: Anyone who loves coastal views, history, or a little adventure
🚩 Miradouro do Suberco (00:00–00:20)
We started at this jaw-dropping viewpoint. From up here, the famous crescent beach stretches out below and the Atlantic sea was beautifully calm that day — glassy and peaceful. This cliff has long been a lookout for locals watching over fishermen’s boats — a lifeline for the community. Standing there, it felt like stepping back in time, connected to centuries of sea-faring history.
🦌 Escultura “Veado” (00:20–00:30)
Next, we strolled down Estrada do Farol to see the quirky “Veado” sculpture. It’s a fun little stop and a reminder of the artistic soul tucked into this fishing town. This path also connects the cliff-top district to the village below - a route fishermen have known for generations.
🌊 Farol da Nazaré (00:30–00:45)
The lighthouse stands proud on the cliff edge, built in the early 1900s to guide sailors through these tricky Atlantic waters. We didn’t go inside as the queue was long, but the views from outside are stunning, with the calm sea spreading wide below. It’s a humbling reminder of the sea’s power and the lighthouse’s vital role.
🕳 Forno de Orca Cave (00:45–01:15)
From the lighthouse, we made our way down to this natural sea cave carved by relentless waves. Historically, fishermen used it as a shelter and storage spot—nature’s own safe harbour. Getting there is a bit rugged, but the peaceful sound of gentle waves lapping made it feel almost magical. Just watch the tides — better safe than sorry.
⛪ Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth (01:15–01:30)
Walking back toward town, we paused at this 14th-century sanctuary steeped in legend. It’s said a knight was saved from falling off the cliffs by a miraculous vision of the Virgin Mary - a story woven into the town’s identity. The calm here was the perfect contrast to the open sea.
🙏 Capela de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré (01:30–01:45)
We finished at this quaint chapel, peaceful and perched overlooking the ocean. It’s said to have been built as a humble place of worship connected to the larger Sanctuary nearby. Though small, it holds centuries of local devotion and offers a quiet spot to reflect while taking in the stunning coastal views. We didn’t go inside but liked soaking in the quiet and the atmosphere as a nice way to wind down.
📸 Best Selfie Spots
Miradouro do Suberco: For panoramic beach and calm ocean shots
Farol da Nazaré: Lighthouse with peaceful sea behind
Forno de Orca Cave: The cave’s mouth makes a dramatic backdrop, especially with calm waters
Sanctuary courtyard: For a peaceful, historic vibe
💡 Pro Tips
Wear sturdy shoes — some parts near the cave get slippery and rocky
Bring a windbreaker — even calm days carry that Atlantic breeze
Check tide times before heading to Forno de Orca Cave
If you have time, catch surfers at Praia do Norte — when the waves roll in, it’s world-famous
🕰 More to Do If You Have a Full Day
Take the funicular up and down between beach and cliff-top for a scenic ride
Visit the Museu Dr. Joaquim Manso for insight into Nazaré’s fishing culture and traditions
Wander local markets near the sanctuary for fresh seafood and crafts
Feast on grilled sardines or caldeirada (fish stew) at a beachside restaurant
💭 Final Thoughts
This quick walk gave me a perfect taste of Nazaré—stunning views, a touch of adventure, and a peek into a town shaped by the sea and legend. If you’re passing through, it’s well worth squeezing in. Just pack sensible shoes, a curious spirit, and maybe a jacket to handle the Atlantic breeze.
And honestly, I can’t wait to come back one day when the giant waves roll in at Praia do Norte. Seeing those monstrous Atlantic swells - surfers tackling waves taller than buildings - is next-level wild. If you get the chance to visit during winter swell season (November to February), don’t miss it. It’s nature showing off in the most spectacular way.
