Harry and Meghan’s Portuguese bolt hole may be designed to keep his only door to the Royal Family open – both for himself and Archie and Lilibet

Harry and Meghan's Portuguese bolt hole may be designed to keep his only door to the Royal Family open - both for himself and  Archie and Lilibet

As a seasoned traveler and observer of human behavior, I must say that the article paints a fascinating picture of this small Portuguese village and its contrasting worlds. Having visited numerous luxury destinations worldwide, I can attest to the allure they hold for the wealthy – privacy, exclusivity, and an air of sophistication are hard to resist.


Tucked amidst stunning beaches and towering mountains, in an upscale neighborhood adorned with cashmere-like elegance, sharing neighbors with Oprah Winfrey and Gwyneth Paltrow, one might think that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have all the luxuries a Duke and Duchess in exile could imagine in Montecito.

However, even with the seven bedrooms, thirteen bathrooms, and stunning garden, it appears that their California dream home is not entirely satisfying.

According to reports from Richard Eden at The Mail, it appears that the couple have recently purchased a house in the Alentejo area of Portugal, which is close to a property owned by Harry’s cousin, Princess Eugenie, and her husband, Jack Brooksbank.

The place, not surprisingly, boasts a luxury setting, featuring a stunning coastline and sophisticated eateries.

Last September, after the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany, I myself was noticed making an appearance in the picturesque Alentejo region, situated south of Portugal’s capital Lisbon.

For three nights, the pair took a brief vacation, possibly checking out real estate options or even solidifying their decision to purchase a new home.

Harry and Meghan's Portuguese bolt hole may be designed to keep his only door to the Royal Family open - both for himself and  Archie and Lilibet

Maybe Jack, a former bartender at the Admiral Codrington pub in Chelsea, West London, and later an employee at Harry’s preferred nightclub Mahiki, played a role in their purchase. Now, he works in marketing and sales for CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club, a high-end development by the sea with 300 properties, a golf course, spa, and equestrian center.

Eugenie, who is 34 years old, resides at the location they call home, and their family of four splits their days between the United Kingdom and Portugal. Their sons, August who is three years old, and Ernest who is just 16 months, are also part of this dynamic lifestyle.

It’s intriguing to note that Harry and Meghan, too, are considering establishing a residence in the same area. This suggests that Eugenie, Jack, and their kids hold great importance in their lives, as it appears they are drawn to spend time near them.

In terms of work, friendships, and feelings, the two sets of couples and their children have grown very close. It could be true to say that, during the coldness they’ve experienced since stepping away from the Royal Family, Harry and Meghan have discovered a unique sense of family comfort in the presence of Eugenie and her relatives.

Harry continues to maintain a distance from King Charles III and Prince William, due to a series of conflicts that ensued after their television interview with Oprah Winfrey, the release of their Netflix series titled “Harry & Meghan”, and Harry’s upcoming autobiography, “Spare”.

It would be understandable that some of Harry’s grief might be eased if he and Meghan could reside, even partially, in the same vicinity as Eugenie and Jack for a portion of their time.

It seems the main appeal could lie in the thought that his own kids – Archie, aged five, and Lilibet, three – will get to interact with Eugenie’s offspring. A royal insider notes: ‘Harry likely understands that his kids won’t develop friendships with William’s children, George, Charlotte, and Louis in the way they might otherwise, if not reunited.’

‘The relationship between Lilibet and Archie and Eugenie’s children will be their sole connection within the royal circle. It appears that August and Ernest are the only family members they will regularly interact with. Thus, any visits to Portugal, even for vacations, could imply that Harry is maintaining a small link to the Royal Family, potentially paving the way for himself and future generations. Furthermore, it seems he’s nurturing their upbringing with some aspects of royal tradition.’

Harry and Meghan's Portuguese bolt hole may be designed to keep his only door to the Royal Family open - both for himself and  Archie and Lilibet

In fact, the lives of Harry and Eugenie’s families seem to run side by side. Their children, Lilibet who was born in June 2021, and August, Eugenie’s eldest son born in February of the same year, are nearly contemporaries.

Additionally, Harry shared a connection with Princess Diana, as she was friends with Sarah Ferguson, the mother of Eugenie and Beatrice. On ski vacations and during Christmas celebrations at Balmoral, Harry often accompanied Eugenie, affectionately called Euge, and her older sister Bea, along with William.

According to the royal source, there’s a close familial tie between Harry and Eugenie, as they’ve essentially grown up side by side. They’ve both encountered challenges in their relationships with their parents on occasion.

For many years, Harry and Eugenie have shared a close bond, much like Fergie’s playful nature, yet without the air of arrogance that her father, Andrew, is known for, making them compatible companions for one another.

Jack, much like Eugenie, is not shy or timid either. His past, however, includes a touch of controversy. This surfaced during his 21st birthday celebration when rumors swirled that he danced with a stripper, albeit one who was not fully clothed, which shares similarities with Prince Harry’s infamous naked billiards incident in Las Vegas.

The bond between the trio strengthened upon Meghan’s entry, contrasting with some of Harry’s other friends who allegedly distanced themselves. For their first year as a married couple, Harry and Meghan resided alongside Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack: the Sussexes in Nottingham Cottage within Kensington Palace’s grounds, while the Yorks lived in Ivy Cottage nearby. Despite any tumultuous events, the gracious Eugenie has continued to stand by her dear cousin and his spouse, even openly demonstrating loyalty towards Meghan – a gesture seldom seen among other members of the royal family.

As a committed supporter, I joined Meghan in her 40×40 initiative when she celebrated her 40th birthday in 2021. In response, I dedicated 40 minutes of my own time to assist a woman who was re-entering the workforce.

On Meghan’s special day, I took to Instagram to honor her and share my joy. It seems that Eugenie has served as a bridge connecting us, the Sussexes, with the delightful couple, George and Amal Clooney. Intriguingly, back in 2016, my professional journey led me to Casamigos Tequila, the brand George co-founded – quite a remarkable connection!

Harry and Meghan's Portuguese bolt hole may be designed to keep his only door to the Royal Family open - both for himself and  Archie and Lilibet

In 2017, the actor disposed of his company for a cool $1 billion (approximately £750 million). Now, the person who answers to Jack as their superior is Michael Meldman, a previous business partner of Clooney in Casamigos.

It’s Meldman who spearheads the development of the 722-acre CostaTerra resort, situated close to the village of Comporta. Since 2022, Jack has resided in Portugal and been working for him on this project.

In conversation with an interviewer, Meldman shared that as a solo parent of two young children, he desired to enjoy quality time with them during vacation.

It is clear that Jack has successfully showcased the local attractions to Harry and Meghan, and it appears that the Sussexes have found an ideal match in this location. Harry, being 40 years old, will likely appreciate the sunny weather and surfing opportunities – as evidenced by his recent video on stunning golden beaches, where his love for surfing was evident.

In addition to satisfying Meghan’s culinary tastes, she also had a chance to explore Formentera off the Spanish coast during her bachelorette summer in 2016. There, she discovered a fondness for seafood, rice dishes, and spicy sauces.

Without a doubt, it’s highly likely that the Duchess will pay a visit to stylish spots like Sublime Comporta Beach Club, renowned for its delicious fresh oysters and homemade pesto burrata, where Eugenie has been seen savoring her lunch.

Delightfully, I’m part of a circle that assures the Sussexes an unmatched level of security. The location they’re reportedly purchasing is brimming with exclusive gated communities – sanctuaries for the affluent who seek tranquility and privacy amidst the privileged 0.1%.

For Harry – whose legal case against the Home Office continues because, as he has it, they have failed to provide him with the security he insists he needs – this last point is a must.

Over the past several decades, a longtime real estate agent in the region shared with The Mail on Sunday that it’s highly probable the couple spent more than four million euros on purchasing a luxury property at one of the elite resorts. In recent times, they noted, high-profile individuals from the United States have been investing in properties or plots that offer secluded living environments.

Harry and Meghan's Portuguese bolt hole may be designed to keep his only door to the Royal Family open - both for himself and  Archie and Lilibet

This luxurious neighborhood features properties valued between four and 20 million euros. Lately, there have been whispers suggesting that Harry and Meghan might be among the recent buyers. However, it remains undetermined whether they’ve acquired a pre-existing home or one under construction.

Locals, though, are unlikely to be laying out red carpet for the Duke and Duchess, the agent said.

He added: ‘We have much richer and much more famous people buying here for sure. I think they will have zero impact, to be honest.

As a devoted follower, I can’t help but ponder about potential outcomes should a figure such as Jeff Bezos, the visionary behind Amazon, decide to invest here. Indeed, changes might ensue. However, it is crucial to clarify that any impact would not be felt by Harry and Meghan in this context.

Indeed, the contrast between the wealthy who live in the gated estates and the locals is stark.

In the quaint village of Melides, not far from exclusive resort communities, residents often gather in the town square or modest, locally owned cafes to engage in card games and enjoy a leisurely midday beverage together.

The proprietor of a nearby fish eatery chuckles upon hearing news about the British nobility settling in our neighborhood.

‘The rich from the resorts don’t eat with the poor,’ he says.

The village also is the location for designer Christian Louboutin’s five-star hotel Vermelho – which is tucked away on the bend of a winding lane.

A local entrepreneur notes that a significant amount, approximately half a million euros, was invested by the designer to enhance the historic cobblestones within the premises, with the minor adjustment of moving them slightly closer to each other.

‘Perhaps the princesses’ and actresses’ shoes got stuck between the stones,’ he teases.

Close by, beachside clubs offer pricey champagne bottles priced at 1,000 euros apiece. Meanwhile, towering billboards showcase upcoming projects of lavish villa complexes. Occasionally, construction sites peek through the foliage.

One local businessman said A-listers were drawn to the area because of the privacy offered.

They go about freely without causing a stir, as people generally don’t care much. However, an exception was made when Cristiano Ronaldo arrived, as he is Portugal’s celebrated football icon, causing some excitement among the crowd.

The locals in this region ensure the confidentiality of guests, so you won’t overhear discussions about spotting Meghan, Harry, or any other noteworthy figures.” Jose Santos, leader of the local tourism board, confirmed that the area offers an ideal blend of opulence and seclusion.

He mentioned that both foreigners and locals appreciate the Alentejo not for extravagant luxury, but for a tranquil, secure kind of opulence. This region offers a sense of peace and safety which is highly valued, especially when compared to other places where privacy might be compromised more often.

High-end hotel brands – including the Mandarin Oriental – are said to be heading to the area.

Although some critics argue that increased development could lead to local residents being priced out, a real estate agent contends that this growth would actually create employment opportunities and attract investments within the community.

Residents may soon reap substantial financial gains by selling their property, as an influx of upscale retailers seeks to establish themselves in the region. This trend is indicative of a shift towards elite tourism.

However, employees from the well-known eatery, Cavalarica Comporta (featured in the Michelin guide), shared that guests at nearby resorts typically prefer staying within their resort facilities. These guests find all the amenities they require, including dining options and personal chefs, right there.

And for the Sussexes, of course, a slice of extended family life they can’t find anywhere else.

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2024-10-20 04:27

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