Nazaré's Giant Waves Meet Colares' Unique Wines: A Portuguese Coastal Delight
Nazaré, a coastal town in Portugal, is famous for its colossal waves at Praia do Norte, while the nearby region of Colares is renowned for its unique wines. Let's explore these two distinct yet interconnected worlds.
Nazaré's Praia do Norte is a mecca for surfers, drawing enthusiasts from around the globe to ride the massive waves created by the underwater Nazaré Canyon. Meanwhile, the nearby Colares region, part of the Lisboa wine district, boasts a microclimate that yields distinctive wines.
In Colares, the sandy terrain has protected vines from the grape phylloxera plague. Here, AdegaMãe winery cultivates its grapes naturally, shunning herbicides and pesticides, allowing weeds to flourish between the vines. The result is the crisp, salty, and citrusy Malvasia de Colares, a perfect match for both octopus salad and traditional Portuguese stew cataplana.
Further south, Torres Vedras' Quinta da Boa Esperança winery produces the salmon-pink Rosé Atla̭ntico. Back in Nazaré, the 16th-century São Miguel Arcanjo Fort houses a surfing museum and offers a panoramic view of the town's famous waves.
Contrasting these coastal delights, Alcobaça, a town inland, is famous for its historical sites and the delicious pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) from Pastelaria Alcôa. The recipe for these treats was originally crafted by neighboring nuns.
From the giant waves of Nazaré to the unique wines of Colares, and the historic charm of Alcobaça, this region offers a blend of natural wonders, culinary delights, and rich history. Each destination, though distinct, contributes to the vibrant tapestry of Portugal's Central West.
