Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made headlines last year when they purchased a luxury property in the idyllic seaside village of Melides, where Harry’s cousin Princess Eugenie also has a holiday home. However, it’s Nazare – a two-hour drive further north along the country’s famous coast – where they’ll truly find something that can’t be replicated back home in the USA.

California is legendary for its famous waves, which always attract those seeking sea and surf. However, it can’t match Nazare, which holds the official record for having the largest waves in the world. At their peak, they can be treacherous for inexperienced surfers – but everyone must see them at least once, even if it’s just from the safety of the town’s famous lighthouse.

Last year, pro surfer Sebastian Steudtner broke a world record by riding a wave that was 94ft high – and while Harry might not be attempting those heights just yet, he was gifted surfing lessons by Meghan as a 36th birthday present, soon after the couple first moved to Montecito.

Perched atop a cliff over 1000 feet tall, Nazare’s lighthouse displays panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from two very different perspectives – on one side, the sea is calm and sleepy, but on the other, the waves are ferocious, chaotic and only braved in person by the truly courageous.

Crowds gather in winter for the famous storms, when the waves are at their peak, and line up along the balconies of the lighthouse to see the crashing waves up close and personal, before heading off, inspired, to surf in calmer waters.

Although it might seem counterintuitive to visit in the colder months, temperatures in Nazare are mild all year round and there are plenty of sunny days – even at Christmas.

The lighthouse in the Sitio district is the place to be in the town, although Meghan and Harry are more likely to find a secluded house with views of the bay visible from their own private balconies.

Where can visitors without a multimillion pound budget stay to make the most of Nazare?

Hotel Mare is a three-star hotel with five-star views, which can be seen from the huge rooftop balcony adjoining the breakfast room, where seagulls will join you as you snack on your morning bread.

It’s right in the centre of town, within easy walking distance of the funicular station which will take you up by cable car to the lighthouse where the huge waves can be witnessed.

Otherwise, if – in true Harry and Meghan style – you’re looking for a secluded stopover in a quiet village above the town, Hotel Miramar has sea views, a restaurant serving the likes of fresh octopus and a range of accommodation from single rooms to family apartments.

The couple will no doubt plan a stop in Nazare during one of their future stays at their Portuguese holiday home, to witness powerful waves that they can’t get at home in California – and we recommend the place for a visit too.