PLACES YOU ARE GOING TO VISIT



Serra da Pescaria
To the south of Nazaré, an outcrop parallel to the coastline where the oldest rocks in the Nazaré region appear, from around 154 million years ago. They are deposits from the Upper Jurassic, which show a close connection with tectonic activity, linked to the 2nd phase of "rifting" of the opening of the Atlantic Ocean and separation of the supercontinent Pangea. The structures present in the Serra da Pescaria also underwent tectonic changes due to the diapiric intrusion characterized by “Margas da Gorda” which originated the “typhonic valley” of Caldas da Rainha. This formation, delimited by inverse faults, originated a valley covered by Mesozoic and Cenozoic sediments, where, on the western edge, we will find the Serra da Pescaria.

Salgado beach
On the western edge of Serra da Pescaria, in the coastal sector of the region south of Nazaré, from the mouth of the Alcoa river to the limit of Salgado beach, we can find an active dune structure, quite complex, formed by two dune cords, separated by an interdune corridor where plant associations show the different mesological conditions that characterize this coastline.

Dinosaur tracks
Late Jurassic structure is essentially characterized by two distinct formations: the “Montejunto Layers”, which date from the Middle to Upper Oxfordian; and Kimeridgiano's “Layers of Alcobaça” (transgressive episode). In these formations, essentially limestone to limestone-margose, we can see two dinosaur tracks, one of them in a sub-vertical layer covered with trace fossils of the genus Thalassinoides. In addition to these dinosaur footprints, we can also observe a large number of other fossils of essentially marine organisms such as bivalves, gastropods, corals, oncoliths, rudists and sponges that indicate a marine facies of higher temperature waters, corresponding to more tropical climates.

Capela de Santa Ana
One of the oldest buildings in the municipality, it may have been built in the 12th century. It served as a place of prayer and farewell for fishermen, where family members would go to see them off and on. Until the beginning of the 20th century, processions were still made from Salir do Porto to this chapel, although by then it had fallen into disrepair. It gradually lost the importance it once had and was left in total ruin. The chapel, which had fallen into disrepair, and the surrounding area have been restored, making it easier to visit and to organise religious events, especially pilgrimages, and to revive old traditions.

São Martinho do Porto
Also known as "A Concha," São Martinho do Porto bay emerges with the gradual silting of the former lagoon and is, in our days, a beach of distinctive beauty shaped like a shell. The Atlantic Ocean flows in between the Farol and Sant’Ana hills.
During the 12th century, Alfeizerão, located right next to it, was an important maritime port.
Today, it is a site for family outings par excellence, with a promenade that runs along the entire beach. The area is quite lively during the bathing season.

Foz do Arelho - Cais da lagoa - Birdwatching
At the confluence of Óbidos Lagoon with the sea, Foz do Arelho offers the possibility to choose between two distinct types of beaches. On one side, the lagoon, a place of great beauty, is ideal for children due to its calm waters and for windsurfing, taking advantage of the wind that is usually felt here.
On the other side, the beach open to the sea, with strong waves and without significant currents, provides excellent conditions for surfing and holds the Blue Flag, confirming the quality of its waters.
With its distinctive beauty and rich biodiversity, the Óbidos Lagoon stands as a true gem in the West of Portugal, where a harmonious coexistence between nature and the local community thrives in a symbiotic relationship.
This coastal wetland holds undeniable ecological and scenic significance, owing to the essential functions and natural values inherent in such ecosystems. It also plays a crucial role in environmental education and awareness, offering visitors an authentic encounter with the indigenous flora and fauna.
As a prime spot for observing aquatic and migratory birds, unrivaled along the coast between the Mondego River mouth and the Tagus estuary, the lagoon hosts substantial gatherings of ducks, waders, and seagulls during winter. Witness the majestic osprey diving towards the water or marvel at the herons perched on the stilts of the pier, and be captivated by the graceful flight of small flocks of flamingos.
Exploring the surrounding trails will unveil a mosaic of natural and agricultural habitats, along with noteworthy geological formations like Penedo Furado and the rock of Gronho. Walk along the expansive dune barrier by the sea or stroll beneath the refreshing shade of the ameals and towering stone pines along the lagoon's edge. Cycle through Várzea da Rainha or meander through the extensive reedbeds of Braço da Barrosa, serenaded by the melodic calls of reed nightingales.
Embark on an adventure along the undulating paths of Arelho hillside scrub or discover the small yet resilient flora strongholds of the Vau swamp environments, where unique communities of plants, insects, and amphibians persist. Upon closer inspection, encounter enigmatic species such as the diminutive insectivorous plant Pinguicula lusitanica or the towering margarine of the ditches. Discover the intricate patterns of the fire salamander or the vibrant beauty of the Epilobe Sphinx butterfly.