Nazaré is a small fishing village on the west coast of Portugal and has become very famous because of the incredible large waves that roll in here from the Atlantic making it a mecca for big wave surfers at Praia do Norte (North Beach). The enormous waves are due to a submarine geomorphological phenomenon known as the Nazaré Canyon which allows the formation of perfect giant waves. This submarine canyon is the largest underwater canyon in Europe and is about 170 km long and reaches depths of 5,000 metres. The canyon increases and converges the incoming ocean swell dramatically enlarging wave heights.
It is during the winter months, especially October to March, that the biggest waves are seen here. During my visit it was flat calm but still a very beautiful and dramatic location. A walk along the cliff tops gives you panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and then you can visit the Fort of São Miguel and the Arcanjo lighthouse.
Passionate Photographer …. Lost in Asia
Stuart Taylor of HighlanderImages Photography has been making images for over 40 years focusing on Asia with a documentary/photojournalistic style.
Stuart is available for a variety of assignments in subject areas of photojournalism, commercial, architectural, real estate, industrial, interior design, corporate, urbex, adventure, wilderness, and travel.
E-Mail : staylor@highlanderimages.com