People search. Often in the wrong places. Recognising, or perhaps realising, that surely there must be more than just a birth, a life, then death. Spirituality seekers hold heads to the sky, the stars, the universe, or the even moon. Hoping for something from without, that can only be found within.
Human nature demands an explanation for all things. To an extent, it drives what some might call progress. Yet, at the same time there are many things that can’t be explained. So many personal experiences that don’t make sense. Will never make sense. Knowing how, can never explain why?
Why? The single word puzzle that has continued to confound and confuse mankind.
Today, we head to the Silver Coast resort of Nazaré. Famous for its 2026 record for the tallest wave ever surfed – 86 feet! No chance of seeing anything remotely like that. Wrong time of the year. A long stretch of convenient boardwalk encourages a stop for a leg stretch and photo shoot – across the bay towards São Martinho do Porto.
Nazaré downtown, the epitome of a typical coastal resort, exhibits all its trappings. Gift shops, restaurants, hotels, surviving on the whim of passing trade in summer. On the benefits of the surfing communities that arrive from all four corners of the globe to compete, during November to March, when the waves can become formidable.
Nazaré uptown, is certainly that. Precipitously perched.
The old town, known as Sitio, a complete contrast to it’s lowly other half. A handful of visitors sniff out every nook and cranny, like bloodhounds caught on the scent.
Our day of religious study continues with a visit to the Sanctuary of Fátima. Portugal’s answer to Lourdes.
Many pilgrims arrive on knees along dedicated paths. Like slow snails they leave a golden trail of devotion in their wake. Hearts full of intention. Either for themselves, or those they love most dearly.
Our day eventually ends on Camping Redondo.
