The Duke and Duchess of Sussex invest in a new European getaway, marking their first property in Europe since leaving Frogmore Cottage

In a move that reflects their ongoing transition away from royal duties, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly acquired a vacation home in Portugal. This new property, nestled in the sun-kissed landscape of Southern Europe, will serve as a charming escape for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who currently reside in California.

Multiple sources have confirmed that the couple’s purchase adds to their growing portfolio, as they aim to establish a stronger connection to their European roots. This will be their first home on the continent since they vacated Frogmore Cottage, their former residence in the UK, in 2023. Representatives for Harry and Meghan have been approached for official comment, but as of now, the details remain under wraps.

Portugal’s Golden Visa programme is believed to be a factor in their decision. This citizenship initiative allows foreign investors to obtain residency rights by contributing to the local economy, often through real estate investments. To qualify for this visa, applicants typically must meet specific financial criteria, investing in property, government bonds, or other approved assets. The benefits of the programme are enticing, offering residency, access to quality healthcare and education, tax incentives, and the freedom to travel throughout the Schengen Area.

Harry and Meghan are not alone in their affection for Portugal. The couple joins other members of the royal family in the region; Harry’s cousin, Princess Eugenie, and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, own a residence at the exclusive CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club, located south of Lisbon. The two couples enjoy a close bond, often spending time together, especially now that they are both navigating parenthood. Last September, they were seen holidaying together, bonding over their young families.

The Sussexes share a nurturing home life with their children, five-year-old Archie and three-year-old Lilibet, while Eugenie and Jack are parents to August, three, and one-year-old Ernest, with a new addition expected in spring 2025. The friendship between the families strengthens as they bond over shared experiences, raising their little ones in a world that constantly draws scrutiny.

The couple’s acquisition of a holiday home comes after their well-publicised loss of access to Frogmore Cottage, which was gifted to them as a wedding present in 2018. Following the release of Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” the couple was asked to vacate the property, marking a significant shift in their connection to royal life. The move to Portugal signifies their desire to carve out a new chapter, free from the constraints of royal expectations.

In addition to their property investment, Meghan has been active in her philanthropic pursuits. She recently visited Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara, a renowned organisation focused on empowering girls to reach their full potential. During her visit, Meghan engaged with young participants, sharing her personal experiences with online bullying and encouraging open discussions about emotional resilience.

Larissa May, co-founder of the advocacy group #HalfTheStory, worked alongside Meghan during the event and praised her impact. In an interview with Vanity Fair, May recounted, “We did an activity where we talked through a bunch of scenarios, and Meghan spoke about being one of the most bullied people in the world. We had the girls wave these little emoji signs and discuss how each scenario would have affected them emotionally.”

Meghan’s commitment to empowering the next generation reflects a renewed focus on her advocacy work, reinforcing her dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of young girls.

As the Sussexes settle into their new Portuguese haven, they are set to balance the tranquillity of their holiday home with their responsibilities in California and beyond. The decision to invest in a property in Portugal exemplifies their desire for a more private life, away from the relentless media scrutiny they have faced. Their new chapter is sure to unfold in the coming months, with many eager to see how they will continue to navigate their lives as former royals in an ever-evolving landscape.