Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly purchased a beachfront property in Melides, Portugal. The couple spent millions on a home in the Costa Terra Golf & Ocean Club, a luxury resort that offers private villas, horseback riding, a wellness center, and beach access on Portugal’s Blue Coast. The recommendation for this property likely came from Princess Eugenie and her husband, who have been spending time in Melides since 2022. Other celebrities, such as Gisele Bündchen, George Clooney, and Sharon Stone, have also invested in property in the area, which is known as the “Hamptons of Portugal.”
After resigning from their roles as senior royals in 2020, Harry and Meghan moved to a home in Montecito, California. The couple faced security concerns as they no longer had the same protection provided to working royals like Prince William and Kate Middleton. However, Portugal is considered one of the safest places in Europe, making it an ideal location for the couple and their two children, Archie and Lilibet. Royal expert Christopher Andersen commented on their home purchase, calling it “fascinating” and noting that Eugenie’s husband works for the community in Portugal, which he described as a “very posh area.”
Andersen suggested that Meghan’s eligibility for the Golden Passport, which provides access to all European countries, may have influenced their decision to purchase a home in Portugal. He explained that Meghan, who never obtained a British passport, could benefit from the advantages of holding a Golden Passport through investment in Portuguese real estate. It remains to be seen if Harry and Meghan will indeed pursue this option. The purchase of a home in Portugal could have other advantages beyond simply having a place to reside, according to Andersen’s analysis.
The choice to buy a summer home in Portugal reflects a significant shift for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they continue to establish themselves outside of the royal family’s constraints. The move to Portugal offers a sense of security and privacy for the couple and their children, away from the public scrutiny and expectations that come with being members of the royal family. The purchase of a property in an exclusive area like Melides aligns with Harry and Meghan’s desire for a more secluded and peaceful lifestyle, while also providing them with potential benefits through the Golden Passport program.
Overall, Harry and Meghan’s decision to invest in a summer home in Portugal highlights their ongoing efforts to create a new life for themselves and their family outside of the royal bubble. The move reflects their desire for greater independence and autonomy while also potentially opening up new opportunities for them in terms of travel and access to European countries. As they continue to navigate their post-royal lives, it will be interesting to see how their choice to purchase a home in Portugal influences their future plans and experiences.
