Nazare is one of the finest beach resorts in Portugal, and is an outstanding destination for a holiday. The town is situated on a wide bay of golden sands and stands in the shadow of the towering Sítio headland. Historically, this headland provided shelter for the fishing fleet and the boats were moored high up on the sands, safe from the ferocity of the ocean. Today, fishing has succumbed to tourism, but Nazaré is proud of its heritage, and the town has lost little of its character. Cobbled streets lead from the beachfront, fishermen’s houses have been converted into stylish hotels, and old women still wear traditional dress. In the summer months, Nazare is a bustling and vibrant holiday destination, which attracts a diversity of nationalities and range of ages. The winter draws a wholly different type of tourist, daredevil surfers, who come to surf the colossal waves that break off the Praia do Norte beach.