And speaking of local traditions, among the most popular ones is that of The Seven Skirts of Nazarè: local fisherwomen still wear colorful seven-layered skirts, which according to different versions of the story stand for the days of the week, the colors of the rainbow, seven consecutive waves and several other mythological and biblical symbols related to the number seven. Yet a more practical interpretation suggests that the layers are meant to protect the women from the cold. In any case, The Seven Skirts are part of the traditional costume, along with the clogs and the black headscarf.
The Breathtaking Views
Among the not-to-be-missed experiences in Navaré is undoubtedly the ascent to Sítio, a promontory overlooking the ocean that rises 100 meters above the rest of the village. It can be reached by car, on foot along a curvy path or, much more pleasantly, with the funicular. In addition to admiring the view of the bay and the beach of Navarè, we recommend visiting the church and the small chapel on top of the promontory, Ermida da Mémoria, whose history is linked to the miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary, who apparently saved a hunter by preventing his horse from falling off the cliff.
Finally, if you wish to take a bath without risking being swept away by the giant waves, consider heading about eight kilometers south of Navarè to the pleasant beach of São Martinho do Porto, sheltered inside a closed bay, where the water it is calmer and a little less cold.
Author : The Slowear Journal