Northern Spain / Portugal in the off season (Jan / Feb)

[omniflow]

After our unsuccessful attempt to see 100ft waves in Nazare in November a couple of years ago, we are thinking of re-attempting the trip but in Jan / Feb. In order to maximise flexibility we would go by car so that we're less tied to a specific time to visit Nazare and could be guided by the surf forecasts.

For the avoidance of doubt, the plan is just to see the waves, surfing them is not on the cards.

My real question is, what's the general area between San Sebastian and Nazare like in the off season. I know San Sebastian will be worth visiting any time of year, but what about other places. We've been to Logrono in March, I think it was a Tuesday, and the place was dead. It was still fun, but nothing like it is when it's busier. Similarly we've been to Gijon and La Coruna in May and they were both pretty dead. There was a local football derby in Gijon whilst we were there, that might have had something to do with it.

I know this is Pistonheads, but I'm not bothered about taking in the best driving roads. We're more interested in Food, Drink and a reasonably lively atmosphere. We don't really enjoy being the only people in a place no matter how good the food is.

Even taking the Santander / Bilbao ferry, just driving straight to Nazare seems like a bit too much of a slog for a potentially disappointing trip so I'm looking for ways to make it more interesting. However, it needs to be a time of year that maximises our chances of seeing big waves.

[Every day a journey]

Sintra isn't too far (1.5 hrs by car though this being Pistonheads you can do it in 45 mins) from Nazare and there will always be stuff going on there and plenty of good food.

[paulwirral]

Pamplona is worth a visit , it’s a decent size and it’s not just about the bull run , we enjoyed it the couple of times we’ve been , once after the run and there was life , I know what you mean about logrono.

[Venisonpie]

We've recently had a long weekend in Bilbao which was fantastic. Great dining options, interesting architecture and particularly warm hospitality.

[omniflow]

I've had a bit of a re-think on this. It looks like we can fly to Lisbon in Jan / Feb for £120 return in total for the two of us and rent a car for £160 for 2 weeks with full insurance. Whilst I absolutely love the idea of a road trip in my own car starting from the UK, it just doesn't make sense in this instance.

Now I'm just wondering how last minute and open ended I can do this. My plan would be to wait until the 12 day Surf forecast looks a bit hopeful and then book flights, car hire and accommodation. I wouldn't have thought that the surf forecast will impact price or availability of flights to Lisbon or car hire from the airport, but it may impact accommodation price / availability in Nazare. If that's the case, we'll stay a few miles up or down the coast. It's not like you're going to be sitting on your balcony at 8pm watching the waves - it will be dark.

Any recommendations for Nazare specifically, or the immediate locality would be welcome.

[CABC]

Just south is Obidos, a sweet castellated town. and a short drive to the coastal town of Peniche.
it would be livelier in Feb when warmer & winter tourism picks up.
Cascais and Setubal are pleasant areas around L.
If you're there for 2 weeks you might also consider the Algarve. once over the bridge from Lisbon it's a relaxing 2.5hr drive on an empty m'way.
I know it wasn't what you asked about, but it'll be a lot warmer and eating fresh fish outside for lunch could be pleasant for a couple of days. Weather down there can be quite distinct from Lisbon.
In the Alentejo there's an excellent restaurant in the herdade do esporao winery. no hotel unfortunately.

[languagetimothy]

I replied to your other older post as I live out in Portugal and about 20 mins drive from Nazare. I was there a couple of days ago for a stroll in the 23deg Sun.

I think really if you are flying into Lisbon you should have your base there and make a few day trips, particularly in jan/feb. like many places out of season particularly coastal/beach areas can be a bit dead. Nazare could well be the same with not much in the way of entertainment (live music for example).

you can drive to Nazare from Lisbon in about and hour 20 so its easy for a day trip. the A8 motorway is very good and isn't that busy. it is a toll road tho. or stay overnight so you can explore the area and have a few wines. there's historical stuff if that's your thing. like Obidos, and Alcobaca (where I live)

as others have said Cascais is an easy day trip from Lisbon by train. Sintra too (by bus) Lisbon has plenty going on of course and you will be spoilt for choice- you might not need a hire car for your whole visit and at that time of year you will get some decent prices for both accommodation and car hire.