The Scene Edition 3 - Mapro Knight Frank

EVERY TILE TELLS A STORY...

For centuries, Portuguese hand-painted tiles have been used as a storytelling element, inspired by the streets, colours, and daily life of the Algarve. They capture scenes of local culture, from coastal traditions to village architecture, translating the region’s identity into a visual language.

Our intention is to use this language to curate an authentic sense of place, celebrating the culture and craftsmanship while connecting our clients to the Algarve’s unique lifestyle.

WELCOME TO THE THIRD

EDITION OF THE SCENE!

As we begin this year’s edition of The Scene, I find myself reflecting on how much the Algarve continues to evolve, not only as a destination, but as a place people genuinely choose to build their lives around. What was once viewed primarily as a holiday market has matured into something far more layered. Today, we see families relocating permanently, entrepreneurs bringing international businesses with them, investors taking a longer-term view, and a growing community drawn by the quality of life this region consistently offers.

Over the past year, the Central Algarve property market has once again demonstrated remarkable resilience and confidence. Yet beyond the numbers, what continues to stand out is the emotional connection people form with this part of the world.

We are witnessing continued investment in infrastructure, hospitality, wellness, sport, architecture and community spaces, all contributing to the Algarve’s growing international relevance. The luxury market here is no longer defined simply by larger homes or higher prices, but by a deeper appreciation for design, privacy, sustainability and the overall experience of living well.

This edition of The Scene explores that evolution. Alongside market insights and data, we wanted to highlight the people, projects and ideas shaping the Algarve today. From architecture and development to gastronomy, wellness, craftsmanship and community, these stories reflect a region that continues to move forward while protecting the character and authenticity that make it so special.

I would also like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to this edition of The Scene. Producing a publication like this is always a collaborative effort, and it would not be possible without the support, time and generosity of so many people behind the scenes.

A special thank you goes to the entire team at Mapro | Knight Frank for the creativity, commitment and care they have brought to this edition alongside the day-to-day demands of the business.

Most importantly, thank you to our readers, clients and wider community for your continued trust and support. We hope this edition inspires you, informs you, and offers a meaningful reflection of the Algarve we are all so fortunate to be part of.

CONTRIBUTORS

SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT

BUSINESS SUPPORT COORDINATOR

and also

JUNIOR SALES CONSULTANT MANAGING DIRECTOR

WRITER

PHOTOGRAPHY

WRITER

DESIGN

SUZANA BENTO

BENJAMIN FOWLER RODRIGO COSTA

SANDRA NEVES

MIKAILA MENEZES ROBERTO REIGADO

CHARLIE JOHNSON

FILIPA SILVA

of the THE SCENE / ISSUE 3

SALES CONSULTANT SALES CONSULTANT SALES CONSULTANT

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Mapro | Knight Frank © 2026 All rights reserved. The information in this publication may change at any time and does not form part of any contractual commitment. Publications on any of the properties are based on a direct mandate by Mapro | Knight Frank or the affiliated offices of the Knight Frank International network, without the responsibility of third party affiliates, sellers(s) or lesser(s).

TYPE OF PAPER

The Scene is set in 150g Matte Coated Paper and 150g Glossy Coated Paper

FREE DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUIÇÃO GRATUITA

SAM REMUS

LIZA DOW

FRED MACIEIRA

LIFESTYLE CONTENTS

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The Future of Luxury Living in the Algarve

We meet Miguel Batista of Lusoproa to explore how a new generation of developers are inspired by the Algarve lifestyle.

VISION

COMMUNITY PORTFOLIO

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Ombria Resort

The story of a destination decades in the making, now one of the Algarve’s most thoughtfully crafted luxury retreats.

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Knight Frank Partnership

Mapro is proud to partner with one of the world’s leading independent real estate consultancies.

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Market Report

A considered analysis of market performance, offering insight into recent trends and a forwardlooking perspective on what lies ahead.

Celebrating the people and places that bring character and community to this vibrant region.

A curated collection of exceptional properties, complemented by expert insights from leading voices in global real estate.

Exploring the Algarve’s unique way of life, where every day is inspired by an authentic sense of place.

Ideas, spaces, and innovations shaping modern Algarve living.

Female Artists

We meet four of the Algarve’s leading female artists to explore their work, inspirations, and the stories behind their creations.

A Growing Tradition

We were delighted to be invited by the Santos family to experience Quinta da Tôr.

Vale do Lobo

Exploring everything happening in one of Europe’s most prestigious destinations, /60

Design Guide

Our guide explores the rise of gym and wellness design, and how to create a sanctuary tailored to wellbeing.

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Algarve Listings

Embrace life in the sun with a carefully curated portfolio of exceptional properties across the Algarve’s most sought-after locations.

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International Listings

Through our partnership with Knight Frank we gain access to an extensive global portfolio.

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/ PORTFOLIO

A PARTNERSHIP BUILT ON INSIGHT AND INTEGRITY

Mapro is proud to work in partnership with Knight Frank, one of the world’s leading independent real estate consultancies. Together, the two organisations combine global expertise with deep local market knowledge to enhance the property experience in the Algarve.

WORDS / SUZANA BENTO

We are delighted to celebrate this association with Mapro Real Estate that further strengthens our already impressive Portuguese network.

Our London and Global International teams are excited to work closely with Mapro to promote some of the superb opportunities that this region boasts in both a proactive and innovative manner.

/

Having worked closely with Suzana and her team, I can say with enormous confidence that they epitomise our core beliefs with an excellent quality of service, in depth market knowledge as well as, of course, being trusted advisors to all our clients.” Partner - International Private Office

Founded in 1896 and headquartered in London, Knight Frank is recognised for its responsible and collaborative approach to real estate. Its philosophy is centred on improving people’s lives and the environments in which they live and invest, delivered through a global network of specialists working seamlessly across sectors and regions.

Knight Frank office in Baker Street, London

Together, the two (...) combine global expertise with deep local market knowledge...

This partnership strengthens our ability to provide clients with advice that is both personalised and informed by world-class intelligence. Knight Frank’s research capabilities are among the most respected in the industry, delivering data, forecasts, indices and insights across residential, commercial and capital markets worldwide. This depth of knowledge enables us to support clients in making confident, wellinformed property decisions.

The collaboration also brings together a fully integrated suite of services. From prime residential sales and acquisitions to valuations, development consultancy and occupier services, we are able to support clients throughout every stage of their property journey.

What truly defines this partnership is the combination of global reach and local expertise. By uniting our established presence in the Algarve with Knight Frank’s international network of specialists, we offer clients a holistic and connected approach,ensuring they benefit from exceptional insight, wherever their property ambitions may take them.

A

Over a century of experience gives a unique insight into market trends and opportunities.

Collaboration creates a connected, tailored service experience for every transaction.

Our association with Mapro Real Estate goes from strength to strength as we look to expand our exceptional Iberian network. Our dedicated International Desk in our global HQ in London and our wider Global Network work hand-in-hand with Mapro to promote some of the finest properties available in the region in a tailored and effective manner. Having worked across Knight Frank's international network over the last 13 years, I am hugely looking forward to our continued success with Mapro.

/ JACK HARRIS

Partner - International Residential

OMBRIA ALGARVE

A SKETCH OF THE ALGARVE

From this initial sketch, Ombria Resort is a dream decades in the making, a project that has evolved from a simple concept into one of the Algarve’s most thoughtfully designed luxury destinations. Its journey reflects patience, ambition and a deep respect for the surrounding landscape, culminating in a new kind of resort that blends sustainability, architecture and authentic regional character.

/ VISION

FROM LANDSCAPE TO LEGACY

WORDS / BEN FOWLER

From local materials to heritage techniques, it brings us closer to the history, culture, and people that shape our sense of place.”

From local materials to heritage techniques, architecture and design bring us closer to the history, culture, and people that shape our sense of place. Some of these stories make an immediate impression, others reveal themselves slowly, and at Ombria Algarve, it’s less about spectacle and more about discovery.

Nestled on a hilltop beneath the golden Portuguese sun, Ombria Algarve draws inspiration from the Algarve’s everyday beauty: whitewashed forms, clay tones, stone textures, and subtle patterns that reference traditional azulejos, refined through a contemporary lens. The result is a design language that feels both surprising and grounded, modern yet quietly familiar.

The integration with nature and community reflects a collaboration led by WATG, a global leader in luxury hospitality design. Interior finishes and styling were developed by Wimberly Interiors, while Lisbon-based Promontorio contributed architectural expertise. Together, they have created a minimalist yet richly contextual environment that pays homage to regional vernacular architecture through whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, natural stone, and locally sourced materials.

The wellness offering has been shaped with equal intention. Greg Payne, known for his work on destinations such as Estelle Manor, Beaverbrook, and Aman Resorts, consulted on the resort’s, 2,000-square-metre spa. Private terraces, infinityedge pools, and a restorative hydrothermal circuit create a sense of calm immersion and retreat.

Even the golf course tells part of the story. The 18-hole GEO-certified course was designed by Jorge Santana da Silva, a former mentee of legendary architect Robert Trent Jones. His carefully contoured fairways and greens flow through the area rolling hills and ancient trees, forming a Par-71 course that remains closely connected to its natural surroundings.

A UNIQUE CONCEPT

Ombria Algarve is far from a conventional Algarve luxury resort. From a distance, its central tower and cluster of low-rise, whitewashed buildings evoke the silhouette of a contemporary Algarvian village. The architectural language favours authenticity over ornamentation, blending modernist clarity with tactile materials such as cobblestones, clay tile, and limewashed surfaces.

Inside, each space reflects a seamless convergence of nature and culture. Generously proportioned windows and glazed doors frame uninterrupted views of the surrounding hills, citrus groves, and wildflower meadows. Accents of walnut wood, leather, and limestone introduce warmth and grounding throughout the interiors, reinforcing a quiet sense of place.

ROOTED IN THE ALGARVE

The architecture and interiors are deeply informed by the sensory identity of southern Portugal. Geometric latticework, chimney details, and the use of taipa (rammed earth) across the resort’s buildings all reflect a commitment to traditional craft and locally rooted materials. A swim in one of the resort’s four pools reveals Portuguese rosa aurora marble lining the water’s edge.

At Ombria Kitchen, wood-fired dishes are served on locally crafted ceramics, pieces that can also be taken home as a lasting connection to the experience.

At Solalua, the bar in the central square, illuminated walnut-wood tiles reinterpret azulejo patterns with a contemporary sensibility. These details continue quietly throughout the interiors.

Guestrooms and suites in the Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, its luxury branded hotel and residences, feature locally woven rugs, Burel wool blankets from Serra da Estrela, and hydraulic tiles that bring pattern and texture into intimate spaces.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

The resort embodies a forward-thinking approach to sustainable hospitality in the Algarve. Arriving on site, the relationship between architecture and landscape becomes immediately apparent. Bioclimatic buildings open toward sunlit hills and citrus groves, reinforcing a sense of harmony with the environment.

Solar energy, complemented by geothermal systems, harnesses the Algarve’s abundant sunshine, while rainwater collection supports the irrigation of both landscaped gardens and the golf course.

The wider estate spans 150 hectares of ecologically protected land, home to over 700 newly planted oak trees and 1,800 linear metres of restored river habitat. An on-site nursery supports biodiversity and native planting, reflecting a broader rewilding commitment and a 1:5 replanting principle introduced during development.

A DEEP CONNECTION TO PLACE

At Ombria Algarve, design extends far beyond architecture, it becomes an experience of place. From patterned corridors to tactile interiors and village-like squares, every detail contributes to a sense of continuity with the landscape.

This is not a reinterpretation of the Algarve, but a considered dialogue with it, shaped by craft, material honesty, and respect for context.

Guests and residents are invited to immerse themselves further with guestrooms, suites, and residences that reflect this distinctive vision, the foundation for a deeper connection to the Algarve and its evolving story.

This

is not a reinterpretation of the Algarve, but a considered dialogue with it, shaped by craft, material honesty, and respect for context.”

THE

ARTISANS BEHIND THE SMALL MOMENTS

Throughout the property, unique, artisan-crafted elements have been curated for small moments of delight.

Carolina Queiroz Cunha’s custom reception desk was inspired by the geometry of traditional Portuguese azulejos, those iconic blue-and-white ceramic tiles found throughout the Algarve.

Finnish sculptor Tuulia Penttilä created handmade bird’s egg door knockers, each individually crafted from oak and sandstone.

José Conceição’s handmade dishes and tableware can be found throughout the resort. Pottery and ceramic enthusiasts should also look for Conceição’s hands-on pottery workshop, hosted in a historic carriage house on the property.

Reception desk artwork

YEAR IN 2025: A DIGITAL SNAPSHOT

Every year tells a different story, and 2025 was shaped by both challenge and progress. In a changing landscape, reinforcing the importance of trust, stability, and meaningful connections is our focus.

As a team, we stayed in motion, nurturing long-standing relationships, presenting homes with care and intent, and guiding clients through significant decisions with clarity and confidence. Throughout, we remained grounded in what matters most: thoughtful advice, honest insight, and a deep understanding of this unique region.

VISIBILITY BUILT ON A TRUSTED NETWORK

42,733

125,252

2.5M

website visits property and content page views views across Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, including 577,000 YouTube views

This layered exposure reflects how today’s buyers engage: discovering, revisiting, and building confidence over time, often from abroad. Our aim is not to create noise, but to remain present at the right moments in a buyer’s journey.

REVIEW

property viewings

466 275 44 75 new official mandates

DELIVERED WITH CARE

digital enquiries signed purchase contracts offers negotiated

Our strongest engagement continues to come from the UK and Ireland, followed by the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Portugal, reflecting sustained and genuine demand for the Algarve. We are also seeing growing interest from American and Canadian audiences, reinforcing the region’s expanding international appeal.

This year has reminded us why we do what we do, not only for the transactions completed, but for the relationships built over time and the trust placed in our team by clients around the world.

As we move forward, we do so with purpose, clarity, and momentum, continuing to invest, evolve, and add value in a way that supports both our clients and the longterm strength of the market.

MARKET REPORT

A MARKET IN MOTION

WEALTH, MOBILITY AND THE NEW GEOGRAPHY OF PRIME PROPERTY

THE SHAPE OF WEALTH

Global wealth continues to expand, even against a more complex economic backdrop. Over the past five years, an average of 89 individuals per day have entered the ultra-high-net-worth category, bringing the global total to more than 713,000 UHNWIs in 2026.

This growth is structural, driven by capital markets, technological innovation and the continued concentration of wealth at the very top. The United States alone accounts for 41% of the newly created wealth over the last five years, reinforcing its position as the dominant engine of global capital.

A MORE COMPLEX GLOBAL BACKDROP

The environment in which this wealth operates is becoming more fragmented. Geopolitical tensions, renewed inflationary pressures linked to energy markets and supply chains, and a more uncertain interest rate landscape are shaping a more complex investment climate.

For investors, the challenge is no longer simply where wealth is being created, but how it is preserved, positioned and deployed in a less predictable world. Against this backdrop, the continued resilience of prime residential markets becomes more notable.

Nine Pines, a landmark villa in Quinta do Lago

GLOBAL WEALTH CREATION

713.626 UHNWIs globally in 2026.

89 new UHNWIs created daily. +162.000 UHNWIs added since 2021.

41%

US accounts for of new wealth created 2021 - 2026.

53%

North America share is forecast to rise by by 2031.

FORECAST CHANGE IN UHNWI POPULATION

30M+ USD · 2026 – 2031

Source: The Wealth Report 2026

A MORE MOBILE BUYER

Mobility has become one of the defining characteristics of today’s prime buyer. Ownership is increasingly distributed, with homes serving different roles throughout the year rather than acting as a single base. Decisions are shaped by lifestyle, connectivity, fiscal considerations and long-term positioning, resulting in a more deliberate pattern of ownership.

Homes are selected for how they perform over extended stays, how they support daily routines, how they connect to their surroundings, and how easily they can be lived in from the outset.

Prime homes are now part of a global living strategy.

WEALTH MOBILITY

The global buyer is more mobile than ever:

Multi-home ownership increasing; Buyers prioritising Lifestyle + Tax + Security; Longer stays replacing seasonal usage; Demand rising for turnkey, ready-to-live homes.

Markets that combine lifestyle and stability are outperforming.

PRIME PROPERTY, PERFORMING DIFFERENTLY

Prime residential markets have continued to demonstrate resilience. The Prime International Residential Index (PIRI 100) recorded 3.2% growth in 2025, outperforming many mainstream housing markets.

While performance varies significantly between locations, the broader pattern is one of stability rather than volatility. Markets such as Dubai and Tokyo recorded exceptional growth, reflecting how capital is concentrating in high-confidence, globally connected locations.

Over a longer horizon, the picture becomes even clearer. Over a five-year period, Quinta do Lago recorded 61.2% growth, positioning it among the strongest-performing prime markets globally.

Property at the top end is increasingly viewed as a long-term allocation, valued for its durability, its usability, and its ability to hold position within a broader portfolio.

Source: The Wealth Report 2026

While growth varies significantly by market, the underlying trend is clear: prime property continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by global wealth expansion and limited supply. This divergence in performance highlights how capital is concentrating in high-confidence markets rather than moving uniformly across regions.

A WIDER LENS ON LUXURY

The way wealth is deployed is evolving.

The Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index stabilised in 2025, signalling a period of recalibration rather than decline. Luxury capital continues to diversify across asset classes, but the same underlying drivers: scarcity, experience and long-term relevance, remain consistent.

Within property, this is reflected in how homes are assessed. The focus has moved beyond scale towards usability, flow and the overall experience of living within the space.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPLETENESS

A defining feature of the current market is the growing imbalance between supply and demand, particularly at the top end.

This is not simply a shortage of homes, but a shortage of homes that are fully resolved, where design, functionality and experience are aligned. Buyers are placing increasing value on properties that can be lived in immediately, without compromise.

Wellness areas, integrated leisure spaces and seamless indoor-outdoor living are increasingly expected. Where these elements are delivered, demand is stronger and more decisive. Where they are not, hesitation is more common.

A structural imbalance is emerging:

Quinta do Lago recorded 61.2% growth over the last five years, positioning it among the strongestperforming prime markets globally.”

Limited new development in prime resorts; Planning restrictions reinforcing scarcity; Rising demand for turnkey properties; Buyers unwilling to compromise on finish or experience.

The gap between available stock and buyer expectations is widening. Scarcity is supporting longterm value growth.

A MORE STRUCTURED APPROACH TO ACQUISITION

The profile of the prime buyer is evolving. Globally, there are now an estimated 10,000 family offices, many of which are becoming more professionalised and more active in real estate. Their focus extends beyond wealth preservation towards strategic, thematic investments, including value-add and operational real estate.

For the Algarve, this is particularly relevant. It reinforces demand for properties that combine lifestyle quality with long-term resilience, homes that are not only well located, but fully realised.

BUYER PROFILE

The buyer is changing…

Rise of family offices

Focus on value-add opportunities

Increased demand for co-investment

Long-term holding strategies

THE EVOLUTION OF LUXURY

Luxury is increasingly defined by experience, wellbeing and long-term relevance.

This shift, often referred to as the transformation economy, is changing how buyers evaluate property. In residential markets, this is visible in the growing premium attached to wellness, privacy, sport, nature and day-to-day usability.

For destinations such as Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, these qualities are not peripheral to value, they are central to it.

luxury is increasingly defined by experience, wellbeing and long-term relevance”

THE PORTUGUESE MARKET

STRONG GROWTH, SHIFTING DYNAMICS

The Portuguese mainstream property market recorded one of its strongest years on record in 2025. Residential prices increased by 17.6%, while transaction volumes rose by 8.6%, taking total residential activity to €41.2 billion.

Existing dwellings outperformed new homes on price growth, reflecting ongoing supply constraints.

RESIDENTIAL PRICING INDEX IN PORTUGAL

Beneath these headline figures, however, the composition of demand is evolving. Purchases by buyers with tax residence outside Portugal declined by 13.3% in number and 2.1% in value, while domestic buyers increased their share of the market.

This highlights a broader transition, where transaction volume is increasingly supported locally, even as prime and lifestyle-led markets continue to attract international capital.

THE ALGARVE SNAPSHOT

Algarve prime market at a glance

+5.8% luxury resort price growth (2025)

€10,000+/m² in top locations

Strong international buyer mix

Limited new supply

A low-density, supply-constrained market with global demand.

THE ALGARVE: A MARKET THAT OPERATES DIFFERENTLY

The Algarve continues to operate within a distinct segment of the Portuguese market.

While national foreign-buyer activity softened, the Algarve remained the country’s most important region for purchases by buyers with tax residence outside Portugal. In 2025, the region accounted for 29.7% of all such transactions by number and 42.4% by value.

Within the Algarve itself, buyers with tax residence outside Portugal represented 20.1% of transactions by number and 31.3% by value, the highest regional concentration in the country.

This reinforces the Algarve’s position as a market shaped less by domestic volume and more by international, lifestyle-driven demand.

BUYER PROFILE IN THE ALGARVE´S PRIME AREAS

This international mix reinforces the Algarve’s position as a globally connected market, with demand anchored in Europe and the UK. The Algarve’s prime residential market continues to be shaped by an international buyer base, reinforcing its position as a globally connected market.

British buyers account for 45% of Algarve prime transactions.”

British and Irish buyers remain the dominant group, accounting for the largest share of transactions in the luxury segment. They are followed by a strong European presence, particularly from Germany, the Netherlands, France and Belgium. More recently, there has been a noticeable increase in interest from North American buyers, alongside select activity from Switzerland and the Middle East, particularly at the upper end of the market.

ON-THE-GROUND INSIGHT: A MORE SELECTIVE MARKET

From our own activity, demand remains strongest in the €3 million to €5 million range, where buyers continue to act with confidence.

At the ultra-prime level, above €10 million, activity is more selective. Buyers are engaging, but expectations have increased significantly, particularly around the completeness of the product.

Homes that are delivered to a high standard continue to perform. Where elements of the experience feel incomplete, buyers are more hesitant.

RETHINKING VALUE

At the top end of the market, value is becoming more nuanced.

Price per square metre remains a useful reference point, but it does not fully capture how buyers assess a property. Increasingly, attention is directed towards how a home performs, how space is arranged, how it flows, and how easily it can be lived in.

Elements such as orientation, privacy, integration of leisure space and overall usability play a defining role in shaping perception.

LOOKING AHEAD

The global environment remains complex, shaped by geopolitical developments, fiscal changes and evolving monetary policy.

Even so, the structural drivers of the prime residential market remain firmly in place. Wealth continues to expand, capital continues to move, and supply in key locations remains constrained.

In this context, the focus is increasingly on how wealth is preserved, positioned and deployed with intention.

FINAL THOUGHT

As wealth becomes more mobile and expectations continue to evolve, the role of property is shifting. The decision is no longer simply where to invest, but where to spend time, where a home supports both lifestyle and long-term positioning.

In that context, the Algarve remains firmly placed. Defined by consistency, quality and enduring relevance.

SOURCES

The Wealth Report 2026

National Institute of Statistics (INEInstituto Nacional de Estatística) Confidencial Imobiliário – CI - is a well-established and respected independent data provider and analytics company in Portugal, specialising in the real estate market.

They are widely recognised for collecting, analysing, and publishing property market data, including residential and commercial real estate transactions, trends, and price indices.

AN ARTIST’S STORY WRITTEN ON THE WALLS

An interview with Meinke Flesseman: “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time,” said Thomas Merton, and stepping into the world of Meinke Flesseman, it’s easy to understand why.

FEMALE

MEETING UP WITH TOIN ADAMS

I met Toin at her home, a traditional building she is painstakingly renovating, tucked peacefully away in the heart of the Algarve countryside. It felt fitting: speaking with her, it became clear that she sees the world as a sculptor, finding art and beauty in what others often overlook. For Adams, transformation and physical expression are inseparable.

DIVE INTO THE LANDSCAPES OF VANESSA BARRAGÃO

A weaver, sculptor, embroiderer, and beyond, Vanessa Barragão is a contemporary textile artist redefining the boundaries of fiber art. Drawing from age-old techniques to reflect and challenge contemporary issues, she is changing attitudes towards the ancient art form.

ARTISTS

AN AFTERNOON AT THE DUNN STUDIO

The Dunn Studio is a circular, lighthouse-like space built next to her family home. It’s fitting, really. Not only because of its shape, but because of the way the Algarve light pours through its many windows, flooding the room in the very thing that defines her work.

DREAM WEAVER

Dive into the landscapes of Vanessa Barragão.

WORDS / SUZANA BENTO

Drawing inspiration from the natural world around her, Vanessa creates the organic forms and patterns of seabeds filled with marine life, corals, algaes, pebbles and shells, bringing these scenes to life with glowing, luminous movements. Beyond her deep connection to nature, seasons and cycles, she also embraces an environmental sensibility and vision.

Her approach not only involves recycling and repurposing left-overs and scraps coming from textile factories, but also embodies the new trend towards slowing down the creative processes of transformation and production. / COMMUNITY

Born in the south of Portugal, Vanessa’s early life was shaped by coastal landscapes and traditional craft. She learned to crochet with her grandmothers, inherited from a long line of local culture and heritage. Later, while studying Fashion Design at ULisboa, her path shifted dramatically.

Sustainability is not simply a theme in Vanessa’s work, it is its foundation. Every material in her studio carries a previous life. “All the yarns I use are waste from the textile industry,” she says. “What large industries consider waste is good material for me. I work in small quantities, and I give those fibres a new purpose.”

When I’m in my creative space, I don’t like to follow a drawing. I start with an idea, but it changes every day.”

As we walk through the studio, she explains that her practice operates in two distinct rhythms. One side of the studio is dedicated to commissioned projects, carefully planned pieces developed from collections and drawings created for architects and interior designers.

The other side, she tells me with a smile, is where freedom lives. “When I’m in my creative space, I don’t like to follow a drawing. I start with an idea, but it changes every day. The piece evolves by itself. It becomes spontaneous, very much going with the flow.”

Colour, she feels, is always the natural starting point. “It’s the beginning of everything,” she explains. “I see a colour, I love it, and I want to create something from it. Greens, old pinks, whites… they’re my favourites.”

“Inspiration comes from nature,” she reflects. “But also from emotion and memory. My art is a way of translating what I feel into something visible and tactile.” She prefers to create in the late afternoon and into the night, when the Algarve quietens and the light softens. “There’s a calmness at that time. My ideas flow more naturally.”

Inspiration comes from nature…”

As we talk about success, her answer is simple and grounded. “For me, success is authenticity and integrity. If a piece resonates with someone, if it captures an emotion, that is real success.”

Motherhood, she shares, has added another layer to her life and work. “The process of making art taught me patience and perseverance. In many ways, it prepared me for becoming a mother.”

When I ask what she loves most about living in the Algarve, she looks towards the light pouring into the studio. “The light here is incredible, so clear and bright. And there’s a visible connection between land and ocean. The slower rhythm of life mirrors the rhythm of my work. That peace is something I truly value.”

As I step back into the Algarvian sun, I carry with me the feeling that Vanessa Barragão does not simply weave fibres together, she weaves memory, responsibility and renewal into every piece. Her work asks us to slow down, to look closely, and to reconsider what we discard.

If you want to find out more about Vanessa’s work, then visit her website vanessabarragao.com and consider paying a visit to her studio in Albufeira.

WRITTEN ON THE WALLS

An interview with Meinke Flesseman

WORDS / SUZANA BENTO

Visiting Meinke’s studio is a unique experience. As you step into her world, you discover a place where her memories come to life. As an artist, she feels truly privileged to be welcomed into this region, spending her afternoons exploring galleries and studios in Portimão. Every room is filled with paintings, sculptures, and hand painted tiles, each one adding a layer to her life in the Algarve.

Meinke has been in the Algarve for 23 years, and it is clear that the region is woven into her heart. "As an artist, I love it here,” she tells me. "The Algarve has always inspired me. The light, the beaches, the streets, these are the things I return to again and again.”

As we wander through past memories and snapshots of her life, the Algarve appears through a series of ceramic tiles. These, she explains, are her memories. Each tile carries a story of a moment in time, of people she has known, of places she has been. I remember them through my work.

Her journey into art did not begin with painting. Meinke first explored jewellery design, but quickly realised it felt limiting. "Jewellery did not give me the freedom I needed. When I discovered painting, everything changed. I completely fell in love with it because it allows me to express myself more freely. Even as a child, art was my escape. It was my world where I could be myself.

There’s a magic here that no other place can give… I think it gives life to my work.”

There is a magic here that no other place can give. I think it gives life to my work.”

Meinke’s creative path has been shaped by both formal study and lived experience. She studied in Holland and also in Russia, yet it is the Algarve that continues to inspire her most. "There is something about this place that stays with you. It is the light, the colours, the ocean, the feeling of summer. It is all of that which lives inside my work.”

Her home reflects this same spirit. It feels intimate and welcoming, filled with collected pieces that carry their own stories. Watercolours, oils, and ceramics sit alongside antique tiles and curiosities discovered in vintage markets. "I love combining the old with the new,” she says. "It helps a space feel alive, like it has a history.”

After spending time with her, it becomes clear that Meinke’s work is not just about technique or materials. It is about memory, emotion, and connection. Each tile, each brushstroke, each sculpture becomes a way of telling a story that is both deeply personal and quietly universal.

I ask her what makes the Algarve so special to her. She pauses, then smiles. "It is everything. The quality of life, the brightness, the air, the sky. The Algarve inspires me every single day. Even my favourite pieces are about this place. Its animals, its streets, its markets, and the people I meet along the way.”

Fittingly, she chose to name her home after the family who once lived in the Palacete Belchor, a historic house in Portimão with strong roots in the city’s canning industry. The building itself carries layers of history and architectural character, which continue to influence her work. Today, the space has become a place for living, working, and creating, where past and present exist side by side.

Time spent in Meinke’s studio feels like stepping into a living archive of moments. It is a space where memories are translated into form, where each piece becomes a reflection of her journey. The result is work that feels intimate, joyful, and deeply personal, yet always connected to the place she calls home.

If you want to discover more about Meinke’s work, then visit her website www.meinke-flesseman.com or visit her yourself at her studio in Portimão.

CHASING THE LIGHT

An afternoon at the Dunn Studio with Jessica Dunn.

WORDS / SUZANA BENTO

Jessica grew up in London but has been coming to the Algarve her entire life and has lived here permanently since 1987. “The blue skies draw people here,” she says simply. “There’s something about the sun here, the contrast, the drama, the way it changes everything.”

The studio itself was originally built for her father, the beloved actor Clive Dunn of Dad’s Army, who was also a passionate painter. Creativity, it seems, runs through the family. Her mother, actress Priscilla Morgan, shared that artistic world, and Jessica’s daughters, Alice and Lydia, paint and draw too. The house walls are layered with portraits, landscapes and playful creatures. Even the garden bears evidence of artistic expression, a sculpture here, a fading mural there.

“The problem,” Jessica smiles, “is where to put everything.” But inside the studio, there is space, space for light, and for paint.

Although Jessica once worked more figuratively, over the past five years her practice has shifted decisively into abstraction. Now, her canvases are expansive impressions of sky, land and sea, less about representation, more about sensation. “I’m trying to capture the landscape,” she explains. “The Algarve is always changing, the sunset, the seasons, the shadows. It’s about that movement.”

Her process begins, surprisingly, with earth. “I always start with a warm terracotta base, the colour of Algarve soil. It grounds the work. From there, I build layer by layer.”

The Algarve is always changing, the sunset, the seasons, the shadows. It’s about that movement.”

She works across the surface from dark to light, brushing on, scraping off, repeating. Several paintings evolve at the same time as she develops an idea. “The key is knowing when to stop,” she says. “You can always do more, but sometimes it’s about restraint.”

As we talk, sunlight strikes one of the canvases, illuminating a square of brilliant orange. I assume it’s painted there intentionally. Jessica pauses, amused. “That’s just the sun,” she laughs, but I can see the idea forming behind her eyes, already considering how to capture that accidental brilliance permanently.

Jessica’s paintings are abstract, but they are never empty. They hold mood. Memory. Atmosphere. “It’s about the paint and the expressive marks,” she says. “Gradually they evolve into something familiar, something I remember, a sea, a sky… or just a feeling.”

She names her works, subtle clues to their origins. Somewhere carries a streak of colour across the canvas that, once seen, reveals itself as a rainbow. Its companion piece, Way Up High, hangs nearby. Another evokes the dusty drama of a levant storm. Others invite you Into The Woods. A series of blue paintings hover somewhere between ocean and sky. She leaves that decision to the viewer. “Sometimes they even get hung upside down,” she laughs. “That’s the beauty of abstraction.”

Her tonal layering creates a sense of depth and distance, drawing the viewer inward. Standing close to the canvases, the texture is almost sculptural. From afar, they feel immersive, as though you might step directly into them. “For me, the visual experience should be an emotional one,” she reflects. “It’s about looking into a painting and feeling something.”

Jessica’s work has been exhibited in Portugal, the UK, France and Italy, but her connection to the Algarve remains central. “It’s a magical place,” she says. “The colours of the sea, the spring flowers, the sunsets… they’re an endless inspiration.”

You

As I step back into the bright blue skies, I glance once more at the circular studio sitting peacefully in the sun. Inspired by light, she translates it into colour and texture and atmosphere. And in doing so, she reminds us that sometimes the most powerful landscapes are not the ones we see, but the ones we feel.

The finest of details makes art unforgettable

/ COMMUNITY

CAPTURING FREEDOM

“The physicality of sculpture is a language,” she explains. Her sculptures speak without words. Raw textures, exaggerated forms, and the tension between fragility and strength evoke emotion, sometimes discomfort, sometimes wonder, without literal representation. She uses this language to tell the stories of the communities that inspire her work: people, places, and experiences.

Born in Zimbabwe, the African landscape profoundly shapes her work. “It’s the mystery and magic of that continent,” she says. From a young age, Adams drew endlessly, climbing mountains and jumping through waterfalls. At age eight, a defining experience was seeing X-rays of her bones. This triggered a lifelong fascination with anatomy. “I thought we must be made of light, not bone,” she recalls. A journey began, a search for symmetry, perfection, balance, and movement, laying the foundation for her later work.

A high school teacher introduced her to sculpture. There was no formal training, just self-discovery. Later, time spent renovating Victorian industrial buildings honed her understanding of materials and structure.

Meeting up with Toin Adams

WORDS / LIZA DOW

Today, she creates full-scale public and private monuments from steel, glass, stone, resin, and reinforced concrete. Along with three women, she founded Associação the Imaginary Beings to mentor young artists and produce international art events, workshops and retreats.

Her fascination with wings, power, and mythical beasts stems from a deep search for freedom. “I needed magical escapes,” she admits. She projectmanages, welds, bends, casts, draws, and designs with precision, while collaborating with engineers, architects, and craftsmen to bring her visions to life. Passing these skills onto others is something she is particularly passionate about.

“The physicality of sculpture is a language”

Adams’ work is often monumental in scale. Her most recent work is a nine metre tall Saddhu which will be cast in bronze in Gujarat, India. Her five metre steel sculpture in Faro commemorates the 1943 US Liberator bomber crash in Faro estuary. This fitting tribute to the Portuguese fishermen, who rescued seven US airmen, restores a forgotten story of bravery to the landscape. More recently she is focusing on video, VR and AI immersive interactive public spaces, such as the Video Mapping installation A’Mar in Festival Baltum, Albufeira.

Sculpture has a unique way of asking questions, exploring and finding meaning in the world around us. In Adams’ hands, sculpture does not sit still. It is evolving, moving through the imagination, carrying freedom with it.

Find out more here www.toinadams.format.com

DESIGN GUIDE

GYM & WELLNESS AT HOME

SAUNA DOME

The Infrared PEMF Sauna Dome brings a futuristic, spa-like experience into the home. With its sculptural dome shape, layered heat and light technology, and premium visual presence, it feels less like fitness equipment and more like a private recovery pod for a refined wellness space.

BONCHARGE.COM / SELLING FROM $3.349

THERAGUN PRIME 6 TH GEN

The Theragun Prime brings recovery tech into a more mature and design-led territory. Its angular form, matte finish, and simplified interface make it feel robust without becoming visually aggressive. For a home wellness spread, it works well because it balances utility and desirability, offering a product that looks credible, premium, and immediately recognizable in both fitness and lifestyle contexts.

THERABODY.COM / SELLING FROM $330

LIFORME CLASSIC YOGA MAT

The Liforme Classic Yoga Mat stands out through its clean graphic identity and premium finish, making it one of the most visually recognizable products in modern wellness. Its signature alignment system gives it a strong editorial character, while the highgrip surface and refined construction help it feel considered rather than generic. It is both functional and image-conscious.

LIFORME.COM / SELLING FROM £125

TECHNOGYM REFORM

Technogym Reform brings a sculptural, design-led approach to Pilates at home. With its sleek silhouette, refined detailing, and premium materials, it feels more like a piece of contemporary furniture than traditional fitness equipment. Designed to deliver fluid, controlled movement, it combines performance, comfort, and elegance in a way that elevates both the workout and the space around it.

Bala Bangles reimagined wearable weights with a softer, more lifestyle-driven visual language. Instead of looking purely utilitarian, they feel playful, elevated, and highly photogenic, which is exactly why they became so editorially popular. Designed to be worn on wrists or ankles, they bring gentle resistance to movement while fitting naturally into wellness, fashion, and home workout routines.

ROMA™ is more than just a strength machine, it is a masterpiece of craftsmanship that unites performance, elegance, and individuality. Created for those who expect more from fitness equipment, ROMA™ becomes both the centerpiece of training possibilities and a design statement in any space.

/ LIFESTYLE

THE FUTURE OF LUXURY LIVING IN THE ALGARVE

A conversation with Miguel Batista of Lusoproa.

WORDS / SUZANA BENTO

In the ever-evolving landscape of the Algarve’s luxury real estate market, a new generation of developers is redefining what it means to build with purpose. Among them is Lusoproa, a Portuguese developer whose roots stretch back decades, but whose current vision is firmly focused on the future.

Although the Lusoproa brand itself was formally established in 2018, its foundations lie in a much longer legacy in real estate development. Reflecting on a journey that began well before the company’s official launch, Miguel Batista, together with his brother and business partner Diogo, represents a long-standing family tradition.

“We grew up around construction and development,” Miguel tells us. “Our family was responsible for delivering more than 1,000 residential units, particularly in Vilamoura. That experience shaped how we understand the market today.”

Following the global financial crisis, the family business stepped back from large-scale development, prompting a period of recalibration. But rather than stepping away entirely, Miguel and Diogo saw an opportunity to rebuild, this time with a more agile, contemporary approach.

“In 2012, we made the decision to return to the sector,” Miguel explains. “Instead of repeating the past, we focused on adapting to a new reality. We began with the acquisition and rehabilitation of buildings in central Lisbon, where we delivered over 100 units. That phase was crucial, it allowed us to understand a changing market and reposition ourselves.”

This period of urban rehabilitation laid the groundwork for Lusoproa’s next chapter. By 2016, the company had re-entered the new-build market with renewed confidence, launching projects such as Villa Nature in Vilamoura, an early success that signalled its ability to align design, location, and market demand.

Clients are no longer looking just for holiday homes. They want residences that support a lifestyle.”

From that point onward, the formalisation of the Lusoproa brand in 2018 marked not just a name, but a clear identity: A developer focused on high-quality residential projects, grounded in experience yet shaped by modern expectations.

Miguel Batista, Managing Partner of Lusoproa

Lusoproa’s story is rooted in legacy, but shaped by reinvention. The company emerged from a family tradition in real estate, which Miguel and his brother Diogo chose to revive with a contemporary lens. “Real estate has always been part of our DNA,” Miguel explains. “We didn’t just want to return to the market, we wanted to do so with a clear vision adapted to today’s realities.”

That vision is particularly evident in the Algarve, where Lusoproa has delivered and is preparing to launch projects that respond to a more discerning, international clientele. Developments such as Villa Nature and ONE Vilamoura reflect a growing demand for properties that go beyond seasonal use. Today’s buyers, Miguel notes, are seeking homes that offer year-round comfort, privacy, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

“There has been a clear shift,” he says. “Clients are no longer looking just for holiday homes. They want residences that support a lifestyle, spaces that are functional, sustainable, and designed to be lived in throughout the year.” This evolution aligns closely with what we have been observing across the Algarve’s prime markets. International buyers continue to be drawn by Portugal’s safety, climate, and lifestyle, but expectations have risen. Design integrity, build quality, and location are no longer differentiators, they are prerequisites.

For Lusoproa, meeting these expectations begins with a tailored approach to each project. “We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all developments,” Miguel emphasises. “Every project must respond to its location and its audience. In the Algarve, that often means creating homes that maximise outdoor living, natural light, and proximity to key amenities.”

Projects such as Simple Vilamoura aim to capture exactly that. Positioned in the heart of Vilamoura, the development is designed to cater to a growing segment of buyers seeking primary or semipermanent residences, with generous outdoor areas and easy access to the marina, golf courses, and beaches.

Yet behind the polished façades of luxury developments lies a more complex reality. Miguel is candid about the challenges facing developers in Portugal today. Chief among them is the unpredictability of licensing processes, which can significantly impact timelines and investment strategies.

Our goal is simple: to create homes that people trust, value, and genuinely enjoy living in. If we achieve that, the rest follows naturally.”

“Time is the most critical variable in our sector,” he explains. “When you don’t have visibility on licensing, it becomes very difficult to plan effectively. It affects everything, from construction costs to market timing.”

Despite these challenges, Lusoproa remains confident in the Algarve’s enduring appeal. The region continues to attract a diverse international audience, from Northern European buyers to increasingly global investors. However, maintaining this momentum, Miguel argues, will depend on stability and forwardthinking policies.

“Portugal has all the conditions to remain one of the most attractive destinations for real estate investment,” he says. “But we need consistency. Investors value predictability, and that’s something we must continue to improve.”

This is particularly relevant in the context of shifting government policies, including changes to programs such as the Golden Visa. While such measures have played a significant role in attracting foreign capital to the Algarve and beyond, their evolution underscores the importance of adaptability, for both investors and developers.

Even so, Miguel is clear that the fundamentals of the Algarve market remain strong. “What we’re seeing is not a loss of interest, but a maturation of the market,” he reflects. “Buyers are more informed, more selective, and ultimately more focused on quality. That aligns perfectly with our philosophy.”

It is this insight that positions Lusoproa as a developer to watch in the region. With a growing portfolio and a commitment to delivering projects that balance design, functionality, and investment value, the company is contributing to a broader transformation of the Algarve’s luxury residential offering.

As Miguel concludes: “Our goal is simple: to create homes that people trust, value, and genuinely enjoy living in. If we achieve that, the rest follows naturally.”

For us, this perspective captures a wider shift within the Algarve’s luxury market, one where thoughtful development, rather than volume, is defining the next chapter of growth.

Suzana Bento interviewing Miguel Batista

A GROWING TRADITION

We were delighted to be invited by the Santos family to spend the day exploring the Quinta da Tôr estate, walking among the vines, visiting the cellar, and tasting their wines.

/ COMMUNITY

A TOUR OF THE QUINTA DA TÔR VINEYARD

WORDS / FRED MACIEIRA

I arrived at Quinta da Tôr on a sun-drenched morning, winding along the paths of the Algarve countryside until the small village of Tôr appeared, crowned by its Roman bridge.

The vineyard rests quietly at the edge of the hillsides, surrounded by twelve hectares of vines, a place sculpted by nature and steeped in tradition. From the moment I arrived at the estate, I was struck by its authenticity, a true family enterprise, guided by patience, care, and devotion.

Quinta da Tôr gracefully bridges past, present, and future.”

Mário Santos greeted me warmly and led me through the vineyard. Rows of vines were beginning to blossom, leaves bright green after the recent rains. Seven grape varieties are grown here, Touriga, Syrah, Aragonez, and Cabernet Sauvignon among the reds, Chardonnay, Arinto, and Syrah Siria for the whites.

As Mário spoke about the vineyard’s revival, his passion for its story became unmistakable. The Santos family acquired the previously abandoned farm in 2011, completely renovating it and releasing their first bottle in 2014. “It’s not a business for quick returns; it’s a craft defined by patience,” Mário reflected. It soon became clear that every wine produced here embodies that same quiet dedication.

Inside the Quinta do Tôr wine cellar.

Caring for vines, land, and family can yield something extraordinary over time.”

Walking among the vines, I felt the weight of heritage. His daughter, Catarina Santos, joined us, speaking of the family’s determination to pass on not only the vineyard itself, but also the traditions and pride rooted in the land. The passion invested in every stage, from planting and harvesting to fermenting, was tangible. That commitment is reflected in the wines themselves. Even a powerful red with 17% ABV, shaped by the hot Algarve sun, revealed an unexpected smoothness and complexity, a testament to careful timing and attention to detail.

The wine cellar felt like a world apart: cool, fragrant, and still. Barrels of reds, whites, rosés, and sweet wines rested quietly, each holding the story of the land and the family. As Mário recounted the estate’s history, I pictured his grandparents tending small plots of land here. It struck me that Quinta da Tôr represents continuity, a bridge between past, present, and future.

Walking through the family vineyard

Finally, I joined the tasting tables, generously spaced over five metres apart, where the family invited me to explore their wines alongside regional “petiscos”: chouriço, cured ham, local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and homemade olive oil. I could taste the land itself in every bite, the climate, the soil, and the care poured into each bottle.

The experience was relaxed yet instructive, with informal tasting notes guiding me to identify flavours without pressure, making the tasting accessible to both enthusiasts and casual visitors.

The shop stocks the full range of

As I sipped a glass of Quinta da Tôr’s Syrah and watched the sun warm the vineyard, I realised that a visit here is about more than wine. It is about patience, heritage, and passion. It is about understanding how caring for vines, land, and family can yield something extraordinary over time.

Quinta da Tôr is a living story, continually evolving with each generation. I left carrying more than memories of flavours. I left with a sense of connection to a place where life, work, and nature grow together in quiet harmony.

/ WWW.QUINTADATOR.COM

/ GERAL@QUINTADATOR.COM

Quinta da Tôr wines

MORE THAN SPORTS, A WAY OF LIFE

Sport, Wellness & Lifestyle at Vale do Lobo: an Interview with Hernani Estevão, Managing Director

In the Algarve, the conversation around property is shifting from seasonality to lifestyle. Nowhere is this more evident than in luxury resorts such as Vale do Lobo, where sport and wellness have moved beyond additional amenities to become core elements of daily life.

Golf remains at the heart of the resort’s identity, now complemented by a broader ecosystem that includes tennis, the rapid expansion of padel, fitness, and an increasing focus on wellbeing and performance.

Sport is no longer seen as a standalone activity, but as part of a broader wellness-led way of living.”

Ongoing investment, from the redevelopment of the Praça to wider enhancements in hospitality and leisure, reflects a long-term commitment to experience as much as infrastructure.

As a result, Vale do Lobo is increasingly chosen not only for holidays, but for extended stays, repeat visits, and full-time living.

WORDS / BEN FOWLER

Vale do Lobo has long been associated with sport, particularly golf. How has that relationship evolved in recent years?

Vale do Lobo has long been defined by golf, which remains central to its identity. In recent years, however, its sporting culture has evolved to reflect a more contemporary, internationally minded lifestyle.

Sport is no longer seen as a standalone activity, but as part of a broader wellness-led way of living. Alongside golf, tennis, fitness, and outdoor training have all seen strong growth, while padel has emerged as one of the most social and accessible additions to the mix.

This evolution has been supported by continued investment in facilities and programming, allowing sport to sit seamlessly alongside wellness, hospitality, and community life. Today, Vale do Lobo offers a more holistic sporting ecosystem, one that appeals equally to visitors and long-term residents.

Sport removes barriers between people, creating instant connections regardless of language or background.”

Do you feel there has been a broader shift from sport as an activity to part of a wellness-led lifestyle?

Yes, very much so. Sport is now seen less as occasional leisure and more as an integral part of everyday wellbeing.

People are increasingly seeking environments that support healthier routines, where movement is linked to balance, longevity, and quality of life.

In Vale do Lobo, this shift feels natural. The climate and setting encourage outdoor living, where sport exists alongside recovery, nutrition, and mental wellbeing.

It’s no longer solely about performance, but about living better, for longer and with great intention.

This is also why more people are choosing to stay longer or make Vale do Lobo their permanent home.

The Royal Golf Course has rolling fairways set amidst pine trees

In such an international community, does sport help bring people together?

Absolutely. Sport naturally breaks down barriers between people. Whether it’s padel, tennis, golf, or fitness, shared activity creates instant connection regardless of language or background.

These informal environments allow friendships to form organically and help new residents integrate more quickly. Sport also brings together different generations and lifestyles, strengthening the wider sense of community.

In this sense, sport becomes more than activity, it becomes a key driver of connection and belonging.

How important is sport in shaping daily life beyond leisure?

Sport plays a defining role in structuring life here. For many residents, it forms part of their daily rhythm; morning walks, training sessions, or time on the golf course shaping the flow of the day.

It creates structure, balance, and time outdoors, making life feel more grounded and purposeful.

On a social level, it also provides regular points of interaction, helping to build strong, ongoing community connections.

Ultimately, sport helps transform Vale do Lobo from a destination into a place to live.

Where does a newer sport like padel fit alongside golf and tennis?

Padel complements rather than competes with established sports.

Golf remains deeply rooted in the resort’s identity, while tennis offers a more traditional, technical discipline.

Padel sits between the two: highly social, accessible, and easy to pick up. It appeals to a broad audience and often acts as an entry point into a more active lifestyle.

It adds a modern, dynamic layer to the sporting mix and strengthens the overall ecosystem.

Vale do Lobo continues to evolve through investment in infrastructure and lifestyle. How important is this?

Ongoing investment is essential to the resort’s continued evolution. Projects such as the redevelopment of the Royal Spa and the revitalisation of the Praça enhance both lifestyle and overall experience.

New dining concepts and social spaces reinforce the Praça as a central hub, while developments within the Tennis Academy strengthen the connection between sport and hospitality.

Residential projects such as The Residences also support longer stays and year-round living, shifting the resort away from seasonality towards a more permanent residential community.

Together, these investments ensure that sport, wellness, dining, and living are seamlessly interconnected.

How do these developments support the overall destination experience?

They are fundamental. High-quality sports facilities alone are no longer sufficient. The true value lies in how sport connects with wellness, hospitality, and social life.

These developments create a complete lifestyle environment in which activity flows naturally into recovery, relaxation and connection.

They also extend engagement beyond short visits, encouraging repeat stays and long-term residency, strengthening both community ties and the overall value of the destination.

Do facilities and coaching programmes play a key role in long-term appeal?

Yes. High-quality facilities ensure consistency and year-round accessibility, while structured coaching programmes bring them to life.

Coaching turns sport into a habit, supporting progression and engagement across all ages. It also builds community around clubs and academies, particularly among families.

Together, facilities and coaching reflect long-term commitment, an essential factor in attracting residents, investors, and repeat visitors.

Is padel a long-term pillar or still in expansion?

Padel is transitioning from a phase of rapid growth into a long-term pillar of the Algarve lifestyle. Its popularity is now driven less by novelty and more by consistency, accessibility, and habit.

It sits naturally within the region’s outdoor, social culture and complements golf and tennis rather than competing with them.

While growth may begin to stabilise, padel is now firmly established as a lasting feature of the sporting landscape.

Vale do Lobo Tennis Academy

How do you see the future of sport and wellness in Vale do Lobo?

The future is increasingly integrated. Sport, wellness, recovery, and social connection are converging into one ecosystem rather than existing as separate experiences.

There will be a stronger emphasis on daily participation, sustainable routines, and long-term wellbeing. Wellness will sit alongside sport, supported by developments such as the Royal Spa.

Community will remain central, with programmes and shared spaces fostering connection across all generations. The direction is not reinvention, but evolution, aligned with modern lifestyle expectations and year-round living.

For a first-time visitor, how would you describe the experience?

I would encourage visitors to experience Vale do Lobo as a way of life, not just a destination.

Start with movement, padel, tennis, golf, or a coastal walk, and let sport naturally set the rhythm of the day.

Then balance activity with recovery, relaxation, and time in the natural environment.

The Praça plays a central role, bringing together sport, dining, and community in a single setting.

Ultimately, the best way to understand Vale do Lobo is to live it as residents do, even if only for a short time.

That is when it becomes clear why so many return, stay longer, or choose to make it their home.

BUYER'S GUIDE

BUYING PROCESS

BE INFORMED & ENGAGE PROFESSIONALS

Purchasing a privately owned property in Portugal is a structured and well-defined process when managed correctly. It is essential to understand the process, legal requirements, and associated costs. With the right legal and financial guidance, buyers can ensure a smooth transaction while securing their new investment with confidence.

Appoint an experienced local lawyer – They will verify the property's ownership status, taxation history, and, if applicable, the financial health of the company structure (if the property is held within a company).

Engage a qualified surveyor – They will conduct a full inspection of the property to assess its condition and identify any potential issues.

Understand the costs involved – These include taxes, legal fees, and notary fees.

DEFINE THE CONDITIONS OF SALE

In addition to agreeing on the purchase price, both parties should outline key terms and conditions, such as: Payment terms;

Included fixtures, fittings, or furnishings; Timeline for completion;

Any conditions that may affect the purchase (e.g., financing approvals or due diligence findings).

A well-defined agreement helps avoid potential disputes/ delays later in the process.

PREPARE YOUR DOCUMENTS

To proceed with the purchase, the following documents and registrations are required:

Valid Identification (passport or national ID); Portuguese Fiscal Number (Número de Identificação Fiscal – NIF) for each titleholder;

Proof of residency status, which impacts the amount of property transfer tax - Imposto Municipal sobre as Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis (IMT) payable; Proof of tax residency, including proof of employment or last employment details;

Know Your Client (KYC) Declaration, a mandatory compliance document under the anti-money laundering regulation.

PROMISSORY CONTRACT (CPCV - CONTRATO DE PROMESSA DE COMPRA E VENDA – CPCV)

Once all legal due diligence is complete and terms are agreed upon, a Promissory Contract (CPCV) is drafted and signed by both parties.

A 10% deposit is typically paid upon signing. Under Portuguese law: If the buyer defaults, the deposit is forfeited If the seller defaults, they must refund double the deposit to the buyer.

The CPCV legally binds both parties to complete the transaction under the agreed conditions.

5. FINAL DEED & OWNERSHIP TRANSFER (ESCRITURA DE COMPRA E VENDA)

The final stage involves executing the Final Deed (Escritura de Compra e Venda), which formalises the property transfer.

Pre-signing Requirements:

Payment of Property Transfer Tax - Imposto Municipal sobre as Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis (IMT) must be made within 24 hours before signing; Stamp Duty (Imposto de Selo) will also be paid at this time;

Remaining balance of the purchase price is prepared, usually with a banker’s cheque.

Signing the Deed:

Conducted before a notary or at the local Land Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Predial); The buyer makes the final payment.

Final Registration:

Once the deed is signed; Notary fees will be paid and the new ownership must be registered in the Land Registry (Registo Predial); The property’s records are updated with the new owner’s details.

PRIVATE PURCHASE

BUYING COSTS

1.

PURCHASE TAX (IMT - IMPOSTO MUNICIPAL TRANSMISSÕES ONEROSAS DE IMÓVEIS)

The Property Purchase Tax – Imposto Municipal Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis (IMT) is levied on the buyer before signing the final deeds and varies based on the property type and purpose.

Primary Residence IMT Rates

Up to €660.982 → Taxed on a progressive scale (2% to 8%), with a deductible amount applied.

€660.982 – €1.150.853 → Flat rate of 6%

Over €1.150.853 → Flat rate of 7.5%

Urban building plots → 6.5% Rustic plots → 5%

Property with a touristic habitation license → 6.5%

Secondary Residence IMT Rates

Up to €633.931 → Taxed on a progressive scale (2% to 8%), with a deductible amount applied.

€633.931 – €1.150.853 → Flat rate of 6%.

Over €1.150.853 → Flat rate of 7.5%.

Primary Residence for Buyers Under 35

Up to €330.539 → IMT Exempt.

€330.539 – €660.982 → 8% tax minus a deductible amount of €26.443,12.

€660.982 – €1.150.853 → Flat tax of 6%.

Over €1.150.853 → Flat tax of 7.5%.

IMT is calculated on the purchase price, however if this is lower than the rateable value (VPT), the higher value will be considered to calculate the IMT.

STAMP DUTY

(IMPOSTO DO SELO)

Paid by the buyer.

Levied at 0.8% of the deed (escritura) value.

NOTARY FEES

The cost is calculated on a sliding scale depending on the property's value.

Cost: Usually ranges between €500 - €1.500.

REGISTRATION FEES

After signing the deed, the new ownership must be registered at the Land Registry Office

Cost: Around €375

LAWYER’S FEES

Lawyers typically charge between 0.5% – 1% + VAT of the agreed purchase price.

SURVEYOR’S FEES

Fees depend on the service requested and the size of the property

A full property survey is advisable. Fees generally start at €1.500 + VAT Be clear on the level of detail you require in the survey.

BUYING PROCESS

The acquisition of a property held within a company structure follows a broadly similar process to purchasing a privately owned property. However, in addition to the property itself, comprehensive due diligence must also be carried out on the company holding the asset.

Company-held acquisitions are commonly used for estate planning, asset management, succession structuring, and international ownership purposes, but they require enhanced legal, tax, and compliance review.

Commonly structured jurisdictions include:

Malta

Delaware

Portugal

ADDITIONAL STEPS IN THE PROCESS: DUE DILIGENCE

In addition to standard property title searches and planning verification, buyers and their advisers will typically undertake a detailed review of the company structure, including:

Company history and corporate records;

Financial accounts and liabilities

Existing contractual obligations

Shareholder structure and beneficial ownership

Banking arrangements and warranties

Tax and compliance status

The scope of due diligence will depend on the jurisdiction and complexity of the structure.

SHARE PURCHASE AGREEMENT (SPA) / SHARE TRANSFER AGREEMENT (STA)

Where the transaction is structured as a company share acquisition rather than a direct property purchase, the process is generally completed in two stages:

PROMISSORY AGREEMENT

A preliminary agreement establishing the principal terms and conditions of the transaction. A deposit of 10% is commonly payable at this stage, together with an agreed completion timeline.

FINAL TRANSFER AGREEMENT

Upon completion, the remaining balance is paid and the company shares are formally transferred to the purchaser or designated beneficiaries.

OWNERSHIP TRANSFER

Following completion, the corporate management structure and shareholder records are updated to reflect the new ownership.

Where applicable, the change in beneficial ownership must also be registered on the Portuguese Ultimate Beneficial Ownership platform (Registo Central do Beneficiário Efetivo – RCBE), in accordance with Portuguese anti-money laundering regulations.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Corporate acquisitions generally require enhanced compliance documentation, including:

Identification documents for shareholders and directors

Portuguese fiscal number (NIF), where applicable

Proof of residential address

Proof of professional activity or source of funds

Corporate registration Certificate

Certificate of Incorporation

Memorandum of Articles

Certificate of Good Standing

Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declarations

Know Your Client (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance documentation

Additional certified, notarised, apostilled, or translated documentation may also be required depending on the jurisdiction of the company.

BUYING COSTS

LEGAL & PROFESSIONAL FEES

Legal, accounting, and due diligence costs are generally higher than in a standard private acquisition due to the additional corporate and compliance review required. Surveyor and technical inspection costs are typically similar to those of a privately owned property purchase.

TAXES

The tax treatment of company-held property acquisitions varies significantly depending on the structure of the transaction.

SHARE TRANSFER STRUCTURES

In certain company share acquisitions, Property Transfer Tax (IMT) and Stamp Duty may not apply in the same manner as a direct asset purchase. However, this depends entirely on the specific structure, shareholder composition, and applicable legislation at the time of acquisition.

PORTUGUESE COMPANIES

Specific exemptions or tax treatments may apply under Portuguese legislation, subject to ownership thresholds and beneficiary structure. Spouses may not always be considered separate shareholders for exemption purposes.

Professional legal and tax advice should always be obtained before proceeding.

REGISTRATION & CORPORATE COSTS

Additional costs may include:

Corporate registration updates

RCBE registrations

Accounting and company maintenance fees

Ongoing compliance and reporting obligations

KNOW YOUR CLIENT (KYC)

The Know Your Client (KYC) process is an essential compliance measure within the banking, financial, and real estate sectors. Its purpose is to verify client identity, reduce the risk of fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing, and ensure compliance with national and international regulatory obligations.

Licensed real estate professionals are legally required to carry out KYC procedures before proceeding with a transaction. This process may include:

Official identification documents

Proof of address

Fiscal information

Source of funds verification

Beneficial ownership declarations

Enhanced due diligence may be required for certain client categories, including politically exposed persons (PEPs) or more complex international ownership structures. All relevant information is compiled into a KYC record, which must be completed and signed in accordance with applicable compliance procedures before a transaction can proceed.

RUNNING COSTS

1.

THE MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAX (IMI - IMPOSTO MUNICIPAL SOBRE IMÓVEIS)

Is an annual tax applied to all properties in Portugal. This tax is assessed based on the rateable value - Valor Patrimonial Tributário (VPT) of the property, which is determined by factors such as construction year, location, property size, and amenities.

IMI payments are made in arrears, typically in two or three instalments per year, depending on the total amount due. The tax rate varies by municipality and property type:

Urban properties in Loulé Council: 0.2% to 0.5% of the VPT

Urban properties in general: 0.3% to 0.45% of the VPT Rural properties: 0.8% of the VPT

In some cases, IMI exemptions are available, particularly for primary residences, subject to specific conditions set by the Portuguese authorities.

2.

THE ADDITIONAL MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAX (AIMI - ADICIONAL AO IMPOSTO MUNICIPAL SOBRE IMÓVEIS)

Is an additional municipal tax introduced in 2017, applicable to residential properties and urban plots in Portugal. It is levied annually on properties with a rateable value (VPT) exceeding €600.000 per person

The tax rates are structured as follows:

0.7% on the portion of the VPT exceeding €600.000 but less than €1.000.000

1% on the portion of the VPT between €1.000.000 and €2.000.000

1.5% on the portion of the VPT above €2.000.000

This tax only applies to the excess value above each threshold.

Key Considerations:

Certain deductions or exemptions may apply depending on ownership structure and use.

Properties held in white-listed companies are taxed at a flat rate of 0.4% on the total VPT.

Properties owned in blacklisted jurisdictions are subject to a significantly higher IMI rate of 7.5%

The AIMI is separate from the standard Municipal Property Tax (IMI) and is intended to target high-value properties.

ESTIMATED RUNNING COSTS

The estimated running costs shown are reference values for 2026 only and should be considered indicative rather than fixed. The QDL/VDL figures reflect the average annual running costs of a 6-bedroom villa located within the prime resorts, Algarve. The “Countryside” figures reflect the average annual running costs of a 5-bedroom villa located outside the resort areas with permanent occupancy.

THE IFICI TAX REGIME THE RETURN PROGRAMME

The Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) — commonly referred to as NHR 2.0 — is a Portuguese tax regime aimed at attracting highly skilled professionals to the country.

Designed to foster innovation, digital transformation, and global competitiveness, this regime offers significant tax benefits to individuals working in qualifying professions or industries, reinforcing Portugal’s position as a hub for knowledge-driven economic growth.

Under the IFICI regime, eligible professionals benefit from a 20% flat tax rate on income derived from qualifying employment and self-employment activities for up to 10 years.

Additionally, income earned abroad—excluding pensions—is tax-exempt in Portugal, provided it is declared for tax progression purposes. This includes passive income such as, dividends, interest, royalties, capital gains and rental income from property or other employment income, all of which are derived outside Portugal.

However, this regime is not available to individuals who have previously benefited from other special tax regimes, such as the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) regime or the Return Program. Moreover, it can only be accessed once per taxpayer.

This tax incentive is a key part of Portugal’s strategy to attract international talent and strengthen its position in the global economy.

Portugal has strengthened its commitment to welcoming back its talent through the Programa Regressar, a government initiative designed to support the return of Portuguese citizens who lived and worked abroad and now wish to rebuild their lives in Portugal. Extended until 31 December 2026, this programme represents a unique opportunity to return home with significant financial and fiscal advantages.

One of the programme’s most attractive features is its favourable tax regime. Eligible individuals benefit from a 50% exemption on taxable employment or business income earned in Portugal, for a period of five consecutive years, up to legally defined limits. This reduction applies to personal income tax (IRS) and can result in substantial savings, particularly during the crucial first years after returning.

Beyond tax relief, the Programa Regressar also aims to facilitate reintegration by encouraging long-term settlement, professional stability and investment in Portugal. For many returnees, this translates into greater purchasing power and improved access to housing — whether buying a family home, investing in property, or relocating to a new region with confidence and financial security.

With its strong lifestyle appeal, high quality of life and a real estate market full of diverse opportunities, Portugal stands out as an ideal destination to return to. Combined with the benefits of the Programa Regressar, the transition becomes not only emotionally rewarding, but also financially strategic.

Returning home has never been so advantageous.

PORTUGUESE RESIDENCE VISAS

GOLDEN VISA PROGRAM

The Golden Visa program continues to offer residency to investors, with the following qualifying options:

Investment Funds A minimum investment of €500.000 in qualifying Portuguese investment funds.

Job Creation Creation of at least ten jobs in Portugal.

Research Activities A capital transfer of €500.000 or more for research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions.

Commercial Company Formation Formation of a commercial company in Portugal with a capital transfer of €500.000 or more, combined with the creation of five permanent jobs.

It is important to note that as of October 2023, real estate investments no longer qualify for the Golden Visa program.

DIGITAL NOMAD VISA

Introduced in 2022, the D8 Visa is aimed at remote workers and freelancers. Requirements include:

Minimum Income A stable income of at least €3.480 per month from remote work.

Proof of Remote Work Evidence of remote work or self employment, such as contracts or client agreements.

Accommodation Proof of accommodation in Portugal.

Health Insurance Valid health insurance.

Clean Criminal Record No criminal record.

RETIREMENT/PASSIVE INCOME VISA

The D7 Visa caters to individuals with stable passive income.

Requirements include:

Minimum Income At least €870 per month from passive income sources.

Additional Income for Dependents An additional 50% for a spouse and 30% per dependent child.

Savings Maintaining a minimum balance of €10.440 in a Portuguese bank account.

Accommodation Proof of long-term accommodation in Portugal.

Health Insurance Valid health insurance.

Clean Criminal Record No criminal record.

ENTREPRENEURIAL VISA

The D2 Visa is designed for entrepreneurs who wish to start or purchase a business in Portugal. Key requirements include:

Business Establishment Evidence of setting up or acquiring a company operating in Portugal.

Financial Means Proof of sufficient funds to support both the business and personal living expenses.

Accommodation Proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental agreement or property deed.

Health Insurance Valid health insurance covering the duration of stay.

Clean Criminal Record No criminal record in Portugal or the country of origin.

HQA VISA

The HQA (Highly Qualified Activity) Visa targets highly skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. Requirements include:

Higher Education A diploma from a recognised educational institution.

Employment Contract A work contract or a written promise of employment for at least one year, with a salary 1.5 times higher than the average gross annual salary in Portugal.

Clean Criminal Record No criminal record.

Health Insurance Valid health insurance.

Please note that visa requirements and policies are subject to change. It is advisable to consult with official Portuguese immigration authorities or a qualified immigration lawyer for the most current information and personalised guidance.

Written in collaboration with Leonor Gargaté Oliveira Tax Lawyer at Martínez Echevarría Lawyers leonor.oliveira@martinezechevarria.com

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SELLER'S GUIDE

SELLING PROCESS

BE INFORMED & ENGAGE PROFESSIONALS

Before listing your property for sale, consult with your lawyer to fully understand the legal process, tax implications, and costs involved. This ensures a smooth transaction and helps you make informed decisions throughout the sale.

DEFINE THE CONDITIONS OF SALE

Beyond establishing the sale price, it is essential to define the key terms and conditions of the transaction. This includes the agreed price, completion timetable, included fixtures and fittings, furniture, and any specific conditions that should be clearly outlined prior to proceeding.

PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

The buyer’s lawyer will require all necessary property documents to conduct due diligence and verify the property’s title. At this stage, it is also mandatory to provide your real estate agent with a Know Your Client (KYC) form and ensure all relevant documents are up to date.

PROMISSORY CONTRACT (CPCV - CONTRATO DE PROMESSA DE COMPRA E VENDA)

Once all legal checks are completed and the terms agreed upon, a Promissory Contract (CPCV) is drawn up. Typically, a 10% deposit is paid upon signing this contract.

Under Portuguese law:

If the buyer defaults, they forfeit the deposit. If the seller defaults, they must refund double the deposit to the buyer.

FINAL DEED & OWNERSHIP

TRANSFER

(ESCRITURA DE COMPRA E VENDA)

The final deed (Escritura) is signed before a notary or at the local land registry office. At this stage, the remaining balance is paid, and ownership is officially transferred to the buyer. The new ownership is then registered in the Land Registry (Registo Predial)

SELLING COSTS

Selling a property in Portugal involves a number of legal, fiscal and administrative considerations. While many costs will depend on the individual circumstances of the property and the seller, the following provides an overview of the key elements typically involved.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

In order to bring a property to market and proceed with a sale, certain documentation will be required. The exact requirements may vary depending on the property and ownership structure, but typically include:

For all properties:

Identification (Passport or National ID)

Portuguese Tax Number (NIF)

Land Registry Certificate (Certidão do Registo Predial)

Tax Document (Caderneta Predial)

Habitation Licence (Licença de Utilização) where applicable

Energy Certificate (Certificado Energético)

Council-approved plans (Plantas Finais) where available

Additional documentation (where applicable):

Technical File (Ficha Técnica da Habitação), depending on the age of the property

Cadastral registration or land identification records, where relevant

Ultimate Beneficial Owner Declaration (RCBE), if the property is held by a company

Know Your Client (KYC) documentation, in accordance with anti-money laundering requirements

Your legal advisor and real estate agent will guide you through the documentation required for your specific property.

A NOTE ON PREPARATION

Well-prepared properties tend to move more efficiently through the sales process. Ensuring that documentation is in order, costs are understood, and tax implications are considered in advance allows for clearer decision-making and a more controlled transaction.

REAL ESTATE AGENCY FEES

Real estate agency fees in Portugal are typically paid by the seller and are commonly in the region of 5% + VAT, depending on the nature of the instruction and level of service.

These fees are usually only payable upon the successful completion of the sale and may be deductible when calculating capital gains tax.

LEGAL & ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS

While the majority of legal costs are typically borne by the buyer, sellers should be aware of certain potential expenses, including:

Legal representation and advisory fees

Document preparation and updates

Certification or licensing updates, where required

Ensuring that all documentation is complete and up to date prior to listing can help facilitate a smoother transaction process.

INHERITANCE & GIFT TAXATION

Portugal does not apply a traditional inheritance tax. Instead, transfers of assets by death or gift are subject to Stamp Duty (Imposto do Selo).

As a general rule, gratuitous transfers are subject to Stamp Duty at a rate of 10%.

However, transfers between spouses, civil partners, descendants (such as children and grandchildren), and ascendants (such as parents and grandparents) are exempt from this 10% charge.

In the case of gifts involving Portuguese real estate, a Stamp Duty rate of 0.8% may apply on the property value, even where the transfer is between exempt family members.

For transfers to non-exempt beneficiaries, the effective tax burden on Portuguese real estate may reach up to 10.8%, depending on the structure of the transaction.

As the applicable treatment depends on the relationship between the parties and the nature of the transfer, independent legal and tax advice should be sought.

CAPITAL GAINS TAX IN PORTUGAL

WHAT IS CAPITAL GAINS TAX (CGT)?

Capital gains represent the profit realised on the sale of a property, calculated as the difference between the acquisition value and the sale price, after deducting eligible costs associated with the purchase, ownership and sale.

Allowable deductions may include: Acquisition costs such as IMT and Stamp Duty; Notary and registration fees; Qualifying renovation works (subject to applicable time limits and documentation);

Energy certification and licensing costs; Licensed real estate agency fees; Once these elements are taken into account, the net capital gain is determined.

HOW CAPITAL GAINS ARE TAXED

For individual owners, 50% of the net capital gain is included in taxable income.

This amount is then taxed at the applicable progressive income tax rates, which currently range from 12.5% to 48%, depending on the seller’s overall income. For higher income brackets, an additional solidarity surcharge may apply. This treatment applies to both resident and non-resident individuals, with the applicable rate determined in accordance with the individual’s tax position.

PRIMARY RESIDENCE EXEMPTION

Where the property sold is the seller’s primary residence, capital gains may be wholly or partially exempt from taxation, provided that the proceeds are reinvested into another qualifying primary residence.

In general terms, this reinvestment must take place within a period of up to 24 months prior to the sale, or up to 36 months following the sale, in accordance with Portuguese tax legislation.

The replacement property does not need to be located in Portugal and may be situated in any European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) country, provided all applicable conditions are met.

To qualify, the property must have been the seller’s primary and habitual residence, typically evidenced by its use as such for a period prior to the sale, in line with the requirements set by the Portuguese tax authorities.

As the application of this exemption depends on the specific circumstances of the seller and the structure of the reinvestment, eligibility should always be confirmed with a qualified tax advisor.

SECONDARY RESIDENCE & OTHER PROPERTIES

For properties that are not the seller’s primary residence, 50% of the net capital gain is included in taxable income and taxed at the applicable progressive income tax rates.

The effective rate of taxation will therefore vary depending on the seller’s total income. For higher income brackets, this may result in an effective tax rate in the region of approximately 24% on the total gain, with higher rates applying where additional surcharges are triggered.

CAPITAL GAINS TAX IN PORTUGAL

PROPERTIES WITH A.L. (ALOJAMENTO LOCAL) USE

Where a property has been used for Alojamento Local (AL) or other income-generating activity, the tax treatment of capital gains may differ from that of standard residential property.

Depending on how the property has been declared and used for tax purposes, a greater proportion of the capital gain may be subject to taxation, particularly where it has been treated as part of a business activity. In such cases, a significantly higher proportion of the gain, potentially up to approximately 95%, may be considered for taxation, depending on the applicable tax treatment and individual circumstances.

As this area has been subject to recent legislative changes and continues to evolve, specific tax treatment should be confirmed with a qualified tax advisor based on the individual circumstances of the property and owner.

COMPANY-OWNED PROPERTY

If the property is owned by a company, any capital gain arising from the sale is taxed under corporate income tax (IRC) rules.

In this case, 100% of the gain is subject to corporate taxation, rather than the partial inclusion that applies to individuals.

For Portuguese companies, the applicable tax rate depends on the company’s size and taxable income. The general corporate tax rate is currently being reduced, with rates in the region of 19% (standard rate) and lower rates applying to small and medium-sized companies on part of their taxable income.

Additional municipal and, where applicable, state surcharges may also apply.

NON-RESIDENT COMPANY STRUCTURES

Where the property is held by a non-resident company, capital gains arising from the sale may also be subject to taxation in Portugal.

Under Portuguese tax principles, income derived from the disposal of Portuguese real estate is generally considered Portuguese-source income, meaning that Portugal may retain the right to tax the transaction, regardless of where the owning entity is based.

In some cases, gains realised by non-resident entities may be subject to fixed or corporate tax rates, depending on the ownership structure and applicable legislation. These rates are typically in the region of 28%, although reduced rates, for example around 14% in certain qualifying small or micro-entity scenarios, may apply where specific conditions are met.

The applicable rate will depend on a range of factors, including the ownership structure, holding period and the potential application of double taxation treaties.

CALCULATION & DEDUCTIBLE COSTS

The taxable gain is generally calculated as the difference between the acquisition value and the sale price, adjusted in accordance with Portuguese tax rules.

Allowable deductions may include, where applicable: Shareholder loans connected to the investment structure; Licensed real estate agency fees associated with the sale;

INDIRECT DISPOSALS (SHARE SALES)

In certain cases, taxation may also arise on the sale of shares in foreign entities where the underlying value is primarily derived from Portuguese real estate. These rules are designed to ensure that transactions involving Portuguese property are treated consistently, regardless of whether the asset is sold directly or through a corporate structure.

A STRUCTURED APPROACH

For corporate and international owners, the structure through which a property is held can have a significant impact on the overall tax position. As this area is highly dependent on individual circumstances and has been subject to ongoing legislative refinement, advance tax planning is essential. We strongly recommend seeking advice from a qualified tax advisor to determine the most appropriate structure and ensure full compliance.

Written in collaboration with Leonor Gargaté Oliveira Tax Lawyer at Martínez Echevarría Lawyers leonor.oliveira@martinezechevarria.com

STRUCTURED APPROACH

LIFESTYLE CAPITAL

CRYPTO ASSETS CAPITAL IN TRANSITION

The taxation of crypto assets in Portugal has evolved significantly in recent years. While long-term holdings (generally exceeding 12 months) may benefit from favourable treatment, short-term gains and income derived from crypto-related activities may be subject to taxation.

The applicable treatment depends on the nature of the activity, the holding period and the structure through which the assets are held. As this area is complex and continues to evolve, tailored advice from a qualified tax advisor is strongly recommended.

Portugal’s crypto regime is now: Favourable, but structured; Opportunity exists, but only if properly managed;

Over the past few years, Portugal’s relationship with global wealth has evolved.

Not through a single policy shift, but through a gradual tightening of how capital, particularly mobile capital, is understood, structured and taxed.

Crypto is perhaps the clearest example of that transition. But it is not the only one.

WHAT HAS CHANGED AND WHY IT MATTERS

Holding period now defines outcome Portugal’s approach to crypto is no longer based on whether gains are taxed, but when.

Short-term activity is treated very differently from longterm positioning, reinforcing a shift from speculation to investment.

By contrast, traditional assets such as equities remain largely time-neutral, gains are taxed regardless of how long they are held.

This creates a clear distinction between assets where timing drives outcome, and those where structure and consistency prevail.

THE NATURE OF THE ACTIVITY MATTERS

The distinction between passive holding and active trading has become increasingly important.

In practice, this means that behaviour, not just ownership, now determines tax exposure.

This principle is now extending beyond crypto. Across asset classes, there is a growing focus on how capital is deployed, rather than simply where it is held.

STRUCTURE IS NO LONGER SECONDARY

Whether assets are held personally or through a corporate structure can significantly alter the outcome.

For internationally mobile individuals, this is often where planning becomes critical.

This applies equally to traditional portfolios and alternative assets, reinforcing the idea that structure sits alongside asset selection as a key decision.

THE NARRATIVE HAS SHIFTED

Portugal was once seen as a “tax-free” crypto environment. Today, it is better understood as a structured and competitive jurisdiction, where favourable treatment still exists, but requires alignment.

The same can increasingly be said of wealth more broadly.

The focus is no longer on isolated advantages, but on how different forms of capital interact within a single, considered framework.

CAPITAL PRESERVATION

This evolution is not happening in isolation.

It sits alongside a broader shift in how international buyers approach lifestyle markets such as the Algarve.

Increasingly, buyers arriving in regions such as Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo are not simply relocating, they are restructuring.

Liquid assets, investment portfolios and property are no longer viewed independently.

Instead, they are aligned, balancing liquidity, tax exposure, residency and long-term lifestyle objectives.

In this context, property is no longer viewed in isolation. It becomes part of a wider framework, one that balances capital preservation, flexibility and quality of life.

The opportunity remains.

But increasingly, it belongs to those who approach it with structure.

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ALGARVE

MONCHIQUE

SILVES

ALJEZUR

SAGRES

LAGOS

PORTIMÃO

ALVOR

ALBUFEIRA

LISTINGS

ALCOUTIM

CENTRAL ALGARVE

LOULÉ

ST. BÁRBARA

TAVIRA

OLHÃO

FARO

QUINTA DO LAGO

VALE DO LOBO

VILAMOURA

VILA REAL ST. ANTÓNIO

EXCLUSIVE LISTING

BEACHSIDE LIVING

Set within one of the Algarve’s most established beachfront enclaves, moments from Dunas Douradas Beach Club, this contemporary fourbedroom villa captures a refined approach to coastal living. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area features a double-sided fireplace and flows directly onto the pool and terraces, creating an easy indoor-outdoor rhythm.

Two bedroom suites are positioned on the ground floor, while the principal suite occupies the upper level, complete with private terrace and open views. A rooftop terrace with jacuzzi provides a more elevated setting for sunset moments. The lower level adds a fourth suite alongside a relaxed entertainment space with bar and games area, complemented by integrated features including underfloor heating, air conditioning and smart home controls.

/ DUNAS DOURADAS

Reference 4016

Plot Size 1.197m2

Built Area 462m2

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 5

Views Sea & Lake

EXCLUSIVE LISTING / QUINTA DO LAGO

MODERNISED TOWNHOUSE IN GOLF COMMUNITY

This modernised townhouse in Pinheiros Altos, within Quinta do Lago, is located in one of the Algarve’s most established golf communities. The ground floor offers spacious open-plan living, connecting to a private terrace and garden, creating an easy indoor–outdoor flow. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, including a principal suite with an en-suite bathroom and its own private terrace.

Additional features include underfloor heating, air conditioning, private parking and a golf title, providing access to the facilities within Pinheiros Altos. Positioned close to the beaches, local restaurants, amenities and the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, the property offers a well-located base within the central Algarve.

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 3

Views Golf & Garden

LUXURY 3-BEDROOM TOWNHOUSE

EXCLUSIVE LISTING / VILAS ALVAS Price € 2.375.000

Located between Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, this luxurious townhouse combines refined design with modern comfort, close to the beach. The property features three levels with three ensuite bedrooms, including a striking main suite occupying the entire second floor. The ground floor offers open-plan living with a modern kitchen, dining, and lounge areas that open to outdoor spaces with a BBQ terrace, lounge terrace, private pool, and garden. The lower level includes a second lounge, single garage, laundry area, guest WC, and storage.

A rooftop terrace with a bar and seating area provides stunning views. High-end finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a private lift enhance the exceptional lifestyle in this desirable Algarve setting.

Reference 3355 Plot Size 148m2

Built Area 229m2

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 3

Views Development & Sea

EXCLUSIVE LISTING

END UNIT TOWNHOUSE WITH GOLF VIEWS

A modernised two bedroom end unit townhouse in the Vilar do Golf resort, Quinta do Lago, offers a peaceful retreat with golf course and lake views. The open-plan ground floor includes a kitchen, dining area, and lounge opening to a private garden terrace with pergola. The first floor features two bedrooms, two bathrooms and both with golf views.

Ideal as a holiday home or rental investment, the property includes access to resort facilities like an outdoor and indoor pool, gym, spa, golf courses and a beach nearby. This townhouse provides privacy, security, and comfort in a prime Algarve location.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO Price € 1.095.000

Reference 2346

Built Area 101m2

Bedroom 2

Bathroom 2

Views Golf & Lake

A HOME OF TIMELESS TRANQUILITY

EXCLUSIVE LISTING / QUINTA DO LAGO Price € 15.500.000

Set within the exclusive São Lourenço North enclave within the Quinta do Lago resort, this elegant golf-front villa with adopted land, combines timeless design with contemporary comfort, offering privacy and fairway views in a prestigious setting. The property features six ensuite bedrooms, bright openplan living, and a Bulthaup kitchen with Miele appliances.

Exceptional build quality runs throughout, supported by a refined specification. The lower level includes a cinema, gym, laundry, double garage and storage. Outside, landscaped gardens surround a heated, covered pool, complemented by a sophisticated photovoltaic system for enhanced efficiency.

Reference 4033

Plot Size 4.222 m²

Built Area 1.068 m²

Bedroom 6

Bathroom 6

Views Golf & Lake

A COUNTRY HOME FULL OF CHARM

EXCLUSIVE LISTING / ST. BÁRBARA DE NEXE Price € 1.950.000

Situated in the charming village of Santa Bárbara de Nexe, this beautifully renovated villa blends traditional Algarvian character with contemporary elegance. Set within landscaped grounds, it offers privacy and tranquillity in one of the Algarve’s most sought-after locations.

Light-filled interiors feature open-plan living spaces, high wooden ceilings and a striking fireplace. The principal suite offers a private retreat with its own fireplace, while guest bedrooms are finished with equal care. A dedicated fitness area adds a modern touch.

Outside, shaded terraces and manicured gardens surround a heated saltwater pool with cascading waterfall and firepit lounge, ideal for entertaining. Peaceful countryside surroundings are matched by easy access to Faro Airport, beaches and golf courses.

Reference 3340

Plot Size 1.883 m²

Built Area 300 m²

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 3

Views Countryside & Garden

THOUGHTFULLY UPGRADED FAMILY VILLA

EXCLUSIVE LISTING / VALE FORMOSO Price € 2.190.000 Reference 3270 Plot Size 705 m² Built Area 305 m² Bedroom 4

Located within The Crest in Vale Formoso, this upgraded four-bedroom villa combines privacy, comfort and a well-connected setting close to Almancil, Loulé and the Golden Triangle’s leading resorts, amenities and international schools. Recent improvements include a contemporary new kitchen, refreshed bathrooms and a redesigned pool terrace with a re-tiled swimming pool.

Open-plan living and dining spaces connect to a covered BBQ terrace with a drinks fridge, pizza oven and generous areas for outdoor dining. Three ensuite bedrooms occupy the upper floors, each with fitted wardrobes and private terraces enjoying distant sea views. The lower level adds a fourth bedroom, laundry room, garage and a bright snug opening directly onto the pool terrace.

Bathroom 4

Views Development & Sea

EXCLUSIVE LISTING

INDULGENT VILLA WITH GOLF & SEA VIEWS

Set within landscaped gardens with views across of the golf course, this villa offers privacy and tranquility.

A skylit entrance hall introduces a bright, welcoming interior. The layout is open yet well defined, with four bedroom suites and a principal suite featuring dual dressing areas and two bathrooms. An additional ensuite office can serve as a fifth bedroom.

At the centre, a sleek kitchen is supported by a separate chef’s kitchen. Living areas open onto terraces, gardens and a pool with covered dining and barbecue space.

The lower level includes a lounge with bar, wine room, cinema and wellness area. A rooftop terrace offers distant sea views, while a lift, garage and parking complete the home.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

P.O.A.

Reference 2704

Plot Area 2060 m²

Built Area 928 m²

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 8

Views Golf & Sea

MODERN GOLF-FRONT VILLA

EXCLUSIVE LISTING / ONE GREEN WAY Price € 9.350.000

Set within the prestigious One Green Way development in Quinta do Lago, this exceptional five-bedroom villa offers luxury, privacy and golf-front living in one of the Algarve’s most exclusive addresses. Sold fully furnished, it also includes a transferable golf title to Quinta do Lago Golf Club.

Contemporary architecture and expansive glazing create seamless indooroutdoor living, with open-plan lounge and dining areas overlooking the North Course. A sleek kitchen and bespoke finishes balance elegance with practicality.

The upper floor hosts a principal suite and two further bedroom suites. The lower level features a cinema room, gym, chef’s kitchen, wine cellar, utility room, fifth suite and double garage.

A rooftop terrace with second pool and outdoor kitchen completes this remarkable home.

Reference 3662 Plot Size 896 m²

Built Area 694 m²

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 9

Views Golf, Development & Lake

REFINED MODERN LIVING ON A DOUBLE PLOT

Set on a rare double plot in prestigious Quinta do Lago resort, this south-facing villa offers an exceptional sense of space and privacy with the additional land beyond the pool, created into a private garden retreat.

Elegant interiors unfold from a striking double-height entrance, flowing through bright reception areas to the living area and the fully equipped Siemens kitchen, adjacent. With generous bedroom suites, dedicated leisure and wellness spaces, and beautifully curated outdoor living, the welcoming property is designed for that typical Algarve alfresco living.

Price

P.O.A. Reference 235

Plot Size 5.165m2

Built Area 835m2

Bedroom 6

Bathroom 9

Views Sea & Garden

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/ QUINTA DO LAGO

AWARD-WINNING FRONTLINE ARCHITECTURAL VILLA

Set within the exclusive São Lourenço enclave of Quinta do Lago, this newly completed, award-winning villa occupies a rare frontline position overlooking the final fairway of the renowned San Lorenzo Golf Course, with uninterrupted views across the lake and towards the sea.

The architecture is defined by strong, deliberate design gestures. At its centre, a sculptural circular staircase anchors the entrance hall, creating a focal point that connects each level with clarity. Around it, the layout unfolds through well-proportioned volumes, with glazing carefully positioned to frame views and introduce natural light.

Water plays a defining role. A cascading pool extends along the main living level, drawing the eye towards the lake, while a rooftop pool reinforces the architectural lines and panoramic setting.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

P.O.A. Reference 4145

Plot Area 2890m²

Built Area 1015m²

Bedroom 6

Bathroom 7

Views Golf, Lake & Sea

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A WELL-POSITIONED VILLA NEAR VALE DO LOBO

Tucked within the peaceful gated community of Fazenda Santiago, just moments from the renowned Vale do Lobo resort, this beautifully crafted villa offers the kind of lifestyle that draws so many to the Algarve.

Southwest-facing and set on a generous plot, the home combines timeless architecture with elegant modern comfort, where bright interiors flow effortlessly onto sun-filled terraces, landscaped gardens, and a heated saltwater pool designed for long afternoons outdoors. From quiet mornings on the private balcony of the principal suite to evenings gathered beneath the wooden pergola, every space feels calm, private, and easy to enjoy.

With gated security, tennis courts, gym and sauna facilities within the community, this is a home equally suited to full-time living or as a refined holiday retreat near golf courses, beaches, and the resort lifestyle of the Golden Triangle.

/ FAZENDA SANTIAGO

Price

€ 2.575.000

Reference 4156

Plot Size 1.700m2

Built Area 278m2

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 4

Views Countryside & Development

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DISTINCTIVE CONTEMPORARY VILLA

Set within the renowned resort of Quinta do Lago, this seven-bedroom residence commands far-reaching views over the Ria Formosa and out to the Atlantic. South-facing and architecturally assertive, it combines clean, contemporary lines with a confident sense of scale, designed for both privacy and presence in one of the Algarve's most established addresses.

A dramatic entrance hall features double-height ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, a glass staircase and sleek lift. Elegant living spaces include formal and informal lounges, a designer kitchen and glass wine display.

Four luxurious suites occupy the upper floor, including a grand principal suite. The lower level offers guest suites, cinema, gym and games room.

A private spa with indoor pool, sauna and steam room completes this exceptional home.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

P.O.A. Reference 814

Plot Size 2.030m2

Built Area 1.025m2

Bedroom 7

Bathroom 10

Views Sea

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A LANDMARK VILLA IN QUINTA DO LAGO

Nine Pines is an award-nominated architectural villa set on an elevated 4,000m2 plot in Quinta do Lago, surrounded by landscaped gardens by Murphy Sheanon. Designed across four levels, it combines striking design with relaxed resort living, featuring expansive living spaces, a bespoke Gaggenau kitchen, and multiple guest suites opening onto terraces and gardens. The home includes a cinema, office, bar, and self-contained guest suite, while the principal suite offers marble finishes, a walk-in wardrobe, and private terrace. A rooftop terrace with plunge pool, fire pits, and outdoor kitchen completes the lifestyle, alongside smart home tech, lift, and landscaped grounds with pool and orchard, delivering refined luxury in a prime Algarve Location.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

P.O.A. Reference 4228

Plot Size 4.944m2

Built Area 1.156m2

Bedroom 7

Bathroom 9

Views Development

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ICONIC LAKEFRONT VILLA

Built across four levels to exceptional standards, this lakefront villa combines refined design with panoramic views from almost every room. Light-filled interiors centre around a striking Valcucine kitchen that flows to a BBQ terrace, alongside elegant living and dining spaces. Outside, landscaped gardens and terraces surround a heated infinity pool, with three ground-floor suites opening directly outdoors.

Upstairs features a guest suite and a principal suite with dressing area and private terrace overlooking the lake. A rooftop terrace with lounge, bar, summer kitchen, and plunge pool offers spectacular views. The lower level includes a cinema, gym, spa with indoor pool, additional suites, and garage, creating a complete luxury lifestyle retreat in Quinta do Lago.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

€ 19.500.000

Reference 1179

Plot Size 2.495m2

Built Area 943m2

Bedroom 8

Bathroom 11

Views Lake & Sea

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VILLA UNDER CONSTRUCTION WITH SEA VIEWS

Set on an elevated plot in Vale do Lobo, this five-bedroom contemporary villa under construction blends bold architecture with privacy and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Striking design elements—clean lines, glass façades, and a floating walkway over water—lead into open-plan, light-filled living spaces that flow onto terraces and an infinity pool. The bespoke Arclinea kitchen with Miele & Wolf appliances complements five elegant ensuite bedrooms, each designed for privacy and comfort.

A flexible lower level offers space for leisure or wellness, while a rooftop pool provides panoramic views. Surrounded by landscaped grounds and close to golf, beaches, and dining, this is refined modern Algarve living.

/ VALE DO LOBO

Price

€ 6.950.000

Reference 1528

Plot Size 1.140m2

Built Area 538m2

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 7

Views Development & Sea

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EXCEPTIONAL VILLA WITH LAKE AND SEA VIEWS

An exceptional contemporary villa in Quinta do Lago sits on an elevated plot, offering three levels plus a rooftop terrace, with cutting-edge design, luxury finishes, and full home automation throughout. A dramatic double-height entrance leads to elegant living spaces and a designer kitchen with double islands, all opening onto expansive terraces and the pool. The ground floor includes four bedroom suites, while the entire first floor is dedicated to a grand principal suite with a private terrace and panoramic views.

The rooftop features a jacuzzi and entertaining areas, while the lower level offers a full wellness and leisure experience—indoor pool, spa, gym, cinema, wine room, bar, additional suite, and garage. A separate studio apartment adds flexibility. Set within landscaped gardens with water features, an infinity pool, and outdoor entertaining spaces, the property delivers privacy, space, and refined resort living.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

€ 23.500.000

Reference 1870

Plot Size 3.860m2

Built Area 1.345m2

Bedroom 7

Bathroom 10

Views Sea & Lake

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MODERN VILLA WITH RIA FORMOSA VIEWS

Set beside the protected Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, this contemporary villa combines modern design with tranquil, uninterrupted views. Openplan living spaces flow to a south-facing terrace and pool overlooking the forest, while a spiral staircase connects all levels, including a rooftop terrace with panoramic sea and nature views. Five bright bedroom suites include a principal suite with terrace, walk-in wardrobe, and spa-style bathroom, plus a flexible sixth room.

The lower level offers a TV lounge, games area, guest suite, and practical spaces. With direct access to the boardwalk and nature trails, the home blends refined living with the natural beauty of the Algarve.

/ QUINTA DAS SALINAS

Price

€ 6.750.000

Reference 2382

Plot Size 590m2

Built Area 564m2

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 7

Views Sea, Lake & Protected Area

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PENTHOUSE APARTMENT ON THE BEACH

Perched in the exclusive Dunas Douradas Seabreeze Residences, this south-facing penthouse offers refined coastal living just moments from Ancão Beach. One of only seven residences, it combines privacy with effortless elegance. Light-filled open-plan living flows onto a spacious terrace overlooking landscaped gardens and an infinity pool, complemented by a sleek Miele kitchen and three serene bedroom suites, including a tranquil principal retreat. Premium features such as underfloor heating, air conditioning, a bioethanol fireplace, lift access, and secure parking ensure year-round comfort.

Perfectly positioned in the Algarve’s Golden Triangle, the lifestyle extends beyond the home, morning beach walks, relaxed lunches, and world-class golf are all within easy reach. Designed for effortless living and entertaining, this penthouse captures the essence of coastal elegance, where every day feels like a refined escape.

/ DUNAS DOURADAS

Price

€ 2.995.000

Reference 2729

Built Area 160m2

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 3

Views Pool, Development & Garden

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UNIQUE ESTATE WITH SEA VIEWS

A magnificent estate just north of Vale do Lobo offers stunning sea views and close proximity to golf, beaches, and top amenities. The main house includes spacious living areas, two bedroom suites, a farmhouse-style kitchen, and additional storage and loft space. Set around a courtyard, the pool house features a games room, bar, and living areas, while two separate guest houses provide flexible accommodation. The grounds include a tennis court, swimming pool, golf practice area, and a four-car garage, all within landscaped, gated land with expansion potential up to 2,000m2, offering exceptional lifestyle and development opportunities.

/ VALE DO LOBO

Price

€ 7.975.000

Reference 3408

Plot Size 31.169m2

Built Area 909m2

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 7

Views Sea & Garden

NEWLY BUILT VILLA WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS

A contemporary four-bedroom villa in Vale Formoso, defined by clean lines, generous volumes and carefully framed views. Arranged across three levels, the home centres around a striking double-height living space, where natural light and proportion shape the overall feel. Open-plan interiors extend onto sunlit terraces, creating a natural connection to the landscape, while the layout balances everyday functionality with more private areas, including a well-appointed principal suite and flexible lower level designed for leisure or additional living.

/ VALE FORMOSO

Price

€ 3.450.000

Reference 3492

Plot Size 2.141m2

Built Area 634m2

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 6

Views Countryside & Sea

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ICONIC ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE

Blackbird is an iconic architectural masterpiece set on an elevated frontline golf plot in the heart of Quinta do Lago. This striking brutalist style villa enjoys panoramic views across the South Course, Ria Formosa, coastline and surrounding hills. Built with exposed concrete, natural wood and steel, the home blends bold design with refined Italian interiors.

Expansive living spaces include a designer kitchen with butler's kitchen, dining area, office, library and multiple lounges. Six bedroom suites are complemented by exceptional leisure facilities, including a cinema, sauna, steam room. There are also designated spaces to create a gym and entertainment areas. Outside, tropical gardens frame a heated saltwater pool, pool bar, BBQ area and rooftop terrace with breathtaking 360º views.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

€ 24.500.000

Reference 2561

Plot Size 6.177m²

Built Area 1.481m²

Bedroom 6

Bathroom 11

Views Golf, Sea & Development

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BEACH FRONT DUPLEX APARTMENT

Positioned just moments from the shoreline of Praia de Quarteira, this exceptional duplex apartment brings together panoramic sea views, generous living spaces, and the ease of coastal living in the heart of the Algarve.

Designed across two levels, the apartment balances practicality with refined contemporary comfort, featuring four spacious bedrooms, bright open-plan living areas, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames the ocean beyond. From morning coffee overlooking the beach to evenings spent watching the sunset from the terrace, the connection to the sea is constant throughout the home.

Located within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, shops, and everyday amenities, this is a rare opportunity to enjoy a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle without compromising on space, comfort, or views.

/ QUARTEIRA

Price

€ 2.200.000

Reference 4057

Built Area 194m2

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 4

Views Sea & Beach

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BUNGALOW-STYLE VILLA IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

Set in the peaceful countryside just minutes from São Brás de Alportel, this recently completed villa offers a calm approach to modern living, where space, light and simplicity come together. Designed on a single level, the home centres around an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area with floor-to-ceiling retractable glass doors opening to the pool terrace. A pellet fireplace adds warmth and comfort.

Four well-proportioned bedrooms include a private principal suite with walk-in wardrobe, double bathroom and direct outdoor access. Outside, a saltwater pool, shaded terraces, two-car carport and garden shed complete this practical Algarve home.

/ SÃO BRÁS DE ALPORTEL

Price

€ 1.225.000

Reference 4234

Plot Size 1.138m²

Built Area 242m²

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 4

Views Countryside

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A COUNTRYSIDE VILLA WITH SEA VIEWS

Set on an elevated plot near Alfeição, this charming traditional home offers space, privacy, and easy access to Loulé's amenities. The ground floor features a principal suite with walk-in wardrobe, alongside generous living and dining areas, while upstairs includes two guest bedrooms and a roof terrace with panoramic sea views. The lower level provides a versatile multi-purpose space and large garage with redevelopment potential. Outside, mature gardens surround a south-facing pool, with room for cultivation and solar panels enhancing sustainability, creating a peaceful countryside retreat with strong potential.

/ LOULÉ

Price

€ 1.629.000

Reference 4132

Plot Size 6.720m2

Built Area 439m2

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 4

Views Countryside & Sea

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A TIMELESS ALGARVE VILLA, QUIETLY

POSITIONED

This immaculately renovated villa near Vale do Lobo blends authentic Algarve character with contemporary comfort and exceptional privacy. Thoughtfully redesigned across three floors, the home features restored Portuguese brick ceilings, bright open-plan living spaces, a wood-burning fireplace and a bespoke Bulthaup kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances. Four generous bedroom suites include a private principal suite with dressing area and terraces.

A lift connects all levels, enhancing accessibility, while a lower floor family room, guest accommodation and double garage add versatility. Outside, south-west facing terraces surround a heated swimming pool and landscaped gardens. Security, energy efficiency and close proximity to beaches, golf and schools complete this outstanding home.

/ FAZENDA SANTIAGO

Price

€ 4.950.000

Reference 1167

Plot Size 2.280m²

Built Area 472m²

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 5

Views Countryside & Sea

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CALM, CONTEMPORARY VILLA IN THE HILLS

A thoughtfully designed modern villa in Vale Formoso, set within a peaceful cul-de-sac in the Vale Formoso area, enjoying open views across the surrounding countryside towards the sea. Just minutes from Almancil and the resorts of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, it offers a calm, wellconnected setting with a natural sense of privacy.

The villa is centred around generous open-plan living, where a high-spec fitted kitchen, dining area and lounge connect seamlessly to covered terraces, landscaped gardens and a south-facing swimming pool. Four well-appointed bedroom suites provide comfortable accommodation, while outdoor spaces, including a dedicated BBQ terrace, are designed for easy entertaining. Practical elements such as a separate utility room and a garage with mezzanine storage complete a home that balances considered design with everyday functionality.

/ VALE FORMOSO

Price

€ 3.995.000

Reference 2970

Plot Size 1.870m2

Built Area 501m2

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 5

Views Countryside & Sea

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EXCEPTIONAL HILLSIDE VILLA WITH SEA VIEWS

Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac in Vale Formoso, this newly built sixbedroom villa blends modern architecture with refined finishes, just minutes from Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. Designed across three levels with lift access, it features elegant interiors, a striking double-sided wine cellar, and open-plan living spaces flowing onto covered terraces, alongside a snug, office, and multiple bedroom suites.

The lower level offers a gym, spa facilities, cinema, and additional suites, while outdoors, landscaped gardens frame a long heated pool and fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Combining privacy, quality, and thoughtful design, this villa delivers exceptional contemporary Algarve living.

/ VALE FORMOSO

Price

€ 7.950.000

Reference 4241

Plot Size 3.777m2

Built Area 875m2

Bedroom 6

Bathroom 7

Views Countryside & Sea

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A LANDMARK PROPERTY ON GENEROUS PLOT

Set on a rare 10,660m2 private plot near Vale do Lobo, this character-filled villa, built in the 1970s and held by the same family for over 50 years, offers a unique opportunity for restoration or redevelopment just moments from the beach. The main level features bright living spaces, two ensuite bedrooms with terraces, a traditional kitchen, and a sunroom overlooking the heated pool and gardens.

A self-contained two-bedroom apartment on the lower level adds flexibility, while expansive landscaped grounds, a pool house, and sea views enhance the sense of space and tranquillity. With potential to develop a new residence of up to 1,600m2, this is a rare opportunity to create a landmark home in a prime Algarve location.

/ VALE DO LOBO

Price

P.O.A. Reference 4256

Plot Size 10.660m2

Built Area 405m2

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 5

Views Sea & Beach

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VILLA OVERLOOKING RIA FORMOSA

Set on a prime frontline plot overlooking the Ria Formosa and Quinta do Lago boardwalk, this newly built villa by Jaime Coutinho blends striking contemporary design with its natural surroundings. Designed for privacy and tranquillity, it features landscaped gardens, a serene courtyard, and five ground-floor bedroom suites opening onto the pool terrace. The first floor forms the social heart, with open-plan living, a modern kitchen, and panoramic views stretching to the Atlantic and along the boardwalk.

A rooftop terrace offers exceptional sea and lagoon views, while the lower level provides flexible space for leisure, guest accommodation, and a selfcontained apartment. Outdoors, a large swimming pool, sun terraces, and direct access to the boardwalk complete this rare opportunity to own a landmark home in one of the Algarve’s most exclusive coastal settings.

/ QUINTA DAS SALINAS

Price

€ 8.750.000

Reference 4269

Plot Size 2.931m2

Built Area 702m2

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 6

Views Sea & Lake

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A PARTIALLY BUILT VILLA WITH SEA VIEWS

Set in the quiet enclave of Vale de Éguas near Almancil, this 5 bedroom villa is offered mid-construction, presenting a rare opportunity to shape the final design. The structure showcases clean architectural lines, generous proportions, and expansive openings designed for light-filled, indoor-outdoor living, with future terraces and living spaces flowing seamlessly together.

Planned for four suites plus a flexible additional room, the layout includes a principal suite with terrace and emerging sea views from the upper level. With the pool structure in place and landscaping and finishes still to be completed, this is a unique chance to customise a contemporary home in a prime Algarve location close to beaches, golf, and amenities.

/ ALMANCIL

Price

€ 1.500.000

Reference 4287

Plot Size 2.175m2

Built Area 658m2

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 7

Views Countryside & Sea

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TOP FLOOR APARTMENT IN PRIVILEGED POSITION

Set on the top floor of Victory Village in Quinta do Lago, this two-bedroom apartment enjoys a prime position close to the lake, beach and Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Bright and full of potential, the property offers high ceilings and an open-plan living area where the kitchen flows into the lounge and dining space. A woodburning fireplace adds warmth and character, while a subtle split-level design creates separation between living and bedroom areas.

Both bedrooms are ensuite with built-in wardrobes, complemented by a guest bathroom. Two private terraces enjoy natural light and peaceful garden and golf views. Residents benefit from communal gardens, pool, tennis courts and reception.

/ QUINTA DO LAGO

Price

€ 880.000

Reference 4298

Built Area 125m2

Bedroom 2

Bathroom 3

Views Development & Garden

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A MOORISH-INSPIRED ESTATE NEAR QUINTA DO LAGO

Set just moments from the centre of Quinta do Lago, this distinctive eightbedroom residence sits on an expansive, fully enclosed plot, offering a level of space and privacy that is becoming increasingly rare in such a prime location. The property’s architecture blends traditional Moorish influences with a relaxed, Ibiza-inspired aesthetic, creating a home that feels both characterful and effortlessly liveable.

Inside, a striking marble staircase anchors the entrance, leading to thoughtfully arranged living spaces that balance openness with intimacy. A custom-designed kitchen beneath a dramatic domed skylight forms the heart of the home, while the adjoining sunken living room, centred around a fireplace, enhances the seamless connection between indoor comfort and the surrounding landscape.

/ VALVERDE

Price

€ 6.250.000

Reference 344

Plot Size 11.255m2

Built Area 659m2

Bedroom 8

Bathroom 11

Views Countryside & Garden

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TRADITIONAL TOWNHOUSE WITH POOL

Set within the heart of Vale do Lobo, this traditional three-bedroom townhouse offers a well-balanced lifestyle in one of the Algarve's most established coastal settings. Golden beaches, championship golf, and a full range of resort amenities are all within easy and convenient access.

The home unfolds over two floors, designed with both practicality and comfort in mind. The ground floor centres around a generous living and dining area with fireplace, complemented by a fully equipped kitchen and a versatile bedroom with adjacent bathroom. Upstairs, two bright ensuite bedrooms provide privacy, with the principal suite opening onto a south-facing balcony overlooking the Oceano Golf Course.

Outdoor living is equally considered, with a series of sun-filled terraces, a private swimming pool and a dedicated barbecue area creating an easy setting for entertaining or quiet enjoyment throughout the year.

/ VALE DO LOBO

Price

€ 1.150.000

Reference 2762

Plot Size 188m²

Built Area 162m²

Bedroom 3

Bathroom 3

Views Golf & Development

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MEDITERRANEAN INSPIRED VILLA

Set in a prime area of the Algarve's Golden Triangle, this beautifully renovated five-bedroom villa offers modern Mediterranean living just minutes from Vale do Lobo and close to popular restaurants and amenities.

The property is surrounded by mature pine trees, landscaped gardens and expansive outdoor spaces designed for year-round enjoyment. A large swimming pool, shaded terraces and lush lawns create an inviting setting for relaxed Algarve living. Inside, light-filled interiors feature five spacious bedrooms, stylish bathrooms and an open-plan living area with full-height sliding doors connecting seamlessly to the terraces. A sleek kitchen with central island completes the home.

/ VALE DO LOBO

Price

€ 1.895.000

Reference 3774

Plot Size 2.320m²

Built Area 198m²

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 5

Views Pool & Garden

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NEWLY COMPLETED HILLSIDE VILLA WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS

Positioned within the peaceful Vale Formoso hills, this brand new contemporary villa offers east-to-west sea views and modern living in a sought-after Algarve setting.

The entrance opens to an impressive double-height lounge, flowing into the dining area and fully equipped Bosch kitchen, all connected to a spacious south-facing terrace and pool area.

Five bedrooms and five bathrooms include a flexible guest or staff suite, office space and a private principal suite with terrace. The lower level features a cinema room, training area, Bosch laundry room and double garage. A rooftop terrace enjoys panoramic views across the hills to the coastline, creating the perfect setting for sunset evenings.

/ VALE FORMOSO

Price

€ 3.095.000

Reference 4152

Plot Size 1.212m²

Built Area 656m²

Bedroom 5

Bathroom 5

Views Countryside & Sea

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COASTAL VILLA ALONG THE RIA FORMOSA

Occupying a prime position in Quinta das Salinas, this striking contemporary villa offers refined coastal living just a five-minute stroll from the Quinta do Lago boardwalk, Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and moments from Ancão Beach.

Renovated to an excellent standard, the home blends clean modern lines with relaxed Algarve style. Bright open-plan living spaces centre around a fireplace and flow into a sleek Bosch-equipped kitchen, dining area and sunlit terraces. Four elegant ensuite bedrooms include three on the ground floor and a private principal suite upstairs with office area, garden terrace and rooftop access.

Outside, landscaped gardens surround a heated pool, shaded terraces and barbecue area, ideal for effortless outdoor living.

/ QUINTA DAS SALINAS

Price

€ 4.750.000

Reference 2073

Plot Size 1.487m²

Built Area 287m²

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 4

Views Sea, Garden & Lake

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RENOVATED GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT

Positioned within Vale do Lobo Golf & Beach Resort, this renovated groundfloor apartment offers an effortless lock-up-and-leave lifestyle just a short stroll from the Golf Clubhouse and coastline.

The interior has been thoughtfully redesigned to maximise comfort and functionality, featuring two bedrooms and two elegant bathrooms. The principal suite includes built-in wardrobes and an ensuite, while the second bedroom is ideal for guests or flexible use.

A modern kitchenette flows into the open-plan living area, where a woodburning stove adds warmth and character.

Sliding doors open onto a covered terrace with direct access to communal gardens, perfect for relaxed Algarve living.

/ VALE DO LOBO

Price

€ 550.000

Reference 4310

Built Area 92m²

Bedroom 2

Bathroom 2

Views Development & Garden

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PICTURESQUE VILLA IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

Set within the rolling hills of Santa Bárbara de Nexe, this well-proportioned home offers space, tranquillity and sweeping views of the Algarve coastline.

A welcoming entrance hall leads to a spacious living room with wood-burning fireplace and sliding doors opening onto a sunlit terrace.

The fully equipped Bosch kitchen flows into the dining area, with a utility room to the rear.

Two ensuite bedrooms are on the ground floor, while the first-floor principal suite features a dressing room, office and south-facing balcony with sea views.

An independent annex adds flexibility, while outside a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, orchard and mature gardens complete the setting.

/ ST. BÁRBARA DE NEXE

Price

€ 2.850.000

Reference 4325

Plot Size 2.240 m²

Built Area 477m²

Bedroom 4

Bathroom 5

Views Countryside & Sea

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THE GLOBAL NETWORK

UK & EUROPE

120 OFFICES 5.000 PEOPLE

THE AMERICAS

162 OFFICES

7.500 PEOPLE

AFRICA

23 OFFICES

600 PEOPLE

500 OFFICES

53 COUNTRIES

ASIA

150 OFFICES 10.000 PEOPLE

MIDDLE EAST

6 OFFICES

120 PEOPLE

Behind its brick façade and columned portico, Dunmore opens into a doubleheight entrance hall with marble flooring, statement lighting and a sweeping staircase.

Reception rooms flow between formal and relaxed spaces, centred around an Officine Gullo kitchen with a Calacatta Viola marble island and full-height glazing to the gardens. A bar, cinema room and additional living areas complete the layout. The leisure suite includes an indoor pool, gym and sauna. Five bedroom suites sit on the first floor, including a principal suite with balcony views, dressing rooms and an elegant bathroom. The landscaped gardens offer terraces, lawns, a pickleball court, woodland and a striking bonsai tree that inspired the home’s crest.

/ VIRGINIA WATER, SURREY, UK

IN THE HEART OF WENTWORTH’S GOLF

A newly built luxury mansion on one of Wentworth’s most exclusive roads, combining classical presence with contemporary high-spec living. Set behind secure gates, Pine Trees sits in landscaped grounds opposite the 18th hole of the West Course, moments from the clubhouse and tennis facilities. The home offers generous entertaining space and refined lifestyle amenities within a world-class private estate.

A double-height reception hall leads to formal rooms and an open-plan kitchen, dining and family area opening onto the terrace. Upstairs, the principal suite includes a private terrace, dressing rooms and luxury bathroom, with four further en-suite bedrooms. A leisure suite includes an indoor pool, spa and relaxation areas, alongside a wine room, cinema/games space, gym/yoga studio, staff accommodation and a four-car garage with turntable.

REF ASC012434144

/ SALAMANCA, MADRID, SPAIN

A

FULLY RENOVATED CLASSIC RESIDENCE IN THE HEART OF MADRID

Behind a traditional façade with clean lines and balustraded windows, this impressive 1944 building is accessed via a marble-clad entrance hall.

This fourth-floor, fully exterior apartment is filled with natural light, enhancing its recently renovated interiors. Classic ceiling mouldings, warm tones, and wood finishes create a calm, welcoming atmosphere, while the open-plan layout ensures a seamless flow between spaces.

The living and dining area, with bar and lounge, connects to a fully equipped kitchen with a modern island, ideal for both entertaining and everyday living.

The property offers four en-suite bedrooms, including a principal suite with private terrace overlooking a vertical garden.

Located in Madrid’s prestigious Salamanca district, Núñez de Balboa sits among tree-lined avenues and elegant early 20th-century architecture, offering a balance of tranquillity and vibrant city living.

3.790.000

Bedrooms 4

Bathrooms 5 Views City

THE ULTIMATE REFINED ALPINE RETREAT

Set in the sought-after hamlet of Petit Alaska, moments from the centre of Val d’Isère and just 500 metres from the ski slopes, Husky Chalet offers rare privacy in a prime alpine location.

Defined by its distinctive architecture and curated interiors, the property features seven bedrooms and a considered range of lifestyle amenities designed for both relaxation and entertainment.

A dedicated wellness area includes a swimming pool, sauna, hammam and massage room, complemented by a gym and games room with climbing wall. Two garages, ski and bicycle storage complete the property. Thoughtfully designed as both a private retreat and a family-focused escape, this chalet offers a rare balance of tranquillity, comfort and alpine sophistication.

PRESTIGIOUS CHALET WITH PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS

Set within one of Val d’Isère’s most sought after areas, this exceptional six-bedroom chalet blends timeless alpine character with contemporary refinement. Designed by renowned interior architect Rémy Giffon, the residence combines the warmth of traditional mountain living with the comfort and sophistication of a world-class ski retreat.

Positioned moments from the slopes, Chalet Taïga enjoys uninterrupted views across the Charvet and Bellevarde mountains from its elegant living spaces, expansive terraces, and beautifully appointed bedroom suites.

Arranged over four levels, the chalet has been designed for both entertaining and relaxation, featuring multiple lounge areas, a fully equipped kitchen, private ski room, wellness facilities with an indoor swimming pool, and garage space for five vehicles. A rare opportunity to own one of Val d’Isère’s most prestigious alpine residences.

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/ SANTA GERTRUDIS, IBIZA, SPAIN

CONTEMPORARY ISLAND ELEGANCE

Located on the outskirts of Santa Gertrudis, one of Ibiza’s most sought-after villages, Finca Can Racó de Pau offers privacy, nature and convenience, with easy access to Ibiza Town, Santa Eulália, international schools and restaurants.

The main house combines Mediterranean architecture with contemporary design, featuring four spacious suites with walk-in wardrobes. High ceilings and generous proportions create a cool, airy atmosphere, while the doubleheight living and dining area flows into the kitchen and outdoor terraces.

A separate guest house offers three en-suite bedrooms, with an additional staff annex ensuring discreet functionality.

Outdoors, landscaped gardens frame a private pool, outdoor kitchen, dining and chill-out areas, alongside a yoga deck and orchard, all set within a natural, peaceful environment.

AN ELEVATED EXPRESSION OF COASTAL CITY LIVING

Set beside Sandymount Strand in Dublin 4, Shore Club Penthouses offer refined city living shaped by sea, city and mountain views. Elevated above the shoreline yet closely connected to it, these one and two bedroom homes balance Dublin’s energy with coastal calm.

Expansive glazing brings in light and frames the outlook, while generous private terraces extend each living space outdoors. Designed by Louise Bradley, the show penthouses combine texture, tone and materiality to create timeless interiors that feel warm, composed and quietly luxurious. Residents enjoy curated amenities including a gym, coworking spaces, lounge, cinema room, landscaped courtyard and terrace, and exclusive car club. Within walking distance of Grand Canal Dock, the IFSC and Docklands, Shore Club is your city home by the sea, with rare privacy and ease every day.

DISCOVER A CURATED SELECTION OF FINE WATCHMAKING AND JEWELLERY BRANDS

VISIT US | QUINTA DO LAGO 21, ALMANCIL