Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who famously stepped back from royal life in the UK to start anew in California, may be looking at yet another fresh beginning—this time in Portugal. According to a former palace staffer, their life in the U.S. hasn’t entirely matched their expectations, sparking interest in a European retreat. Here’s what we know about their potential plans, their motivations, and what a move to Portugal might mean for their future.
Exploring a New Life in Portugal
Reports suggest that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have already invested in property at the CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club, a luxurious 722-acre development just south of Lisbon. Rumored to have cost around $4.7 million, the estate offers pristine beaches, lush greenery, and exclusive amenities, making it a perfect escape for those seeking privacy and natural beauty.
This development, set to house 300 new residences, could provide Harry and Meghan with a secluded European lifestyle while still granting them access to high-end conveniences and an international community. It’s a location that not only offers tranquility but also allows them to balance their public lives with private family moments.
Why Portugal? Climate and Connections Could Be Key
Although Harry and Meghan haven’t publicly revealed their reasons for choosing Portugal, there are a few likely factors. Former palace butler Grant Harrold speculates that Portugal’s Mediterranean-like climate, similar to their home in Montecito, California, might appeal to the couple. The pleasant weather, combined with a laid-back lifestyle, could offer an ideal setting for their growing family.
The Sussexes also have strong connections to Europe, making Portugal a strategic choice. A European base would allow them to maintain their global ventures while staying connected to their roots. Harrold points out that Portugal has been a favored destination for royals in the past, adding that the couple may be seeking a balance between their new lives and their European heritage.
Does Moving to Portugal Signal a Step Toward the UK?
While relocating to Portugal doesn’t mean moving back to the UK, it would bring Harry and Meghan significantly closer to Harry’s family. Harrold believes that this potential move might represent a symbolic “step back” toward reconciliation with the royal family. With tensions surrounding their exit from royal duties, a European residence could create opportunities for both physical and emotional proximity to the royals.
Living in Europe could also provide neutral ground for family visits and diplomatic efforts. This decision, if true, may reflect a renewed openness to reconnecting with Harry’s family while still keeping the distance they sought by stepping back from royal life. The location strikes a balance—close enough for family ties yet distant enough to maintain the independence they sought.
Navigating EU Citizenship: Practical Challenges Ahead
If the Sussexes were to make Portugal their new home, one practical consideration would be EU citizenship, which would grant them access to 29 Schengen Area countries. For a couple whose lives involve significant travel, securing the freedom to move throughout Europe would be advantageous. However, as non-EU citizens, they would need to meet residency requirements to qualify for citizenship, which may involve some legal navigation.
Although Harry and Meghan’s high-profile status could add complexity to the process, EU citizenship would open up additional travel freedoms and offer potential business opportunities across Europe. Whether they pursue citizenship or choose to remain with residency status, living in Portugal would undoubtedly broaden their options for both personal and professional ventures.
How a European Move Might Affect Their Business Ventures
A move to Portugal naturally raises questions about the Sussexes’ professional plans, especially regarding Meghan’s anticipated lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which has encountered a trademark delay. Despite any relocation, Harrold suggests their business pursuits could continue seamlessly from abroad. With digital platforms, the couple can maintain a global presence no matter where they reside, and moving to Europe could even add an international flair to Meghan’s brand.
Harry’s ongoing work with mental health organizations and his production projects could also thrive in a European setting. Proximity to cultural and business hubs like Paris and Berlin could offer valuable networking opportunities. Furthermore, their base in Portugal may offer a fresh perspective, attracting a new audience that appreciates the blend of American and European influences in their ventures.
Could This Move Distance Them from Hollywood and Celebrity Circles?
Some might wonder if moving abroad could isolate Harry and Meghan from their Hollywood friends. However, Harrold reassures that the couple’s high-profile friendships will likely remain strong, regardless of physical distance. In today’s connected world, friendships aren’t necessarily limited by geography. With private jets and digital communication, maintaining relationships across continents is entirely feasible for the Sussexes and their A-list friends.
Additionally, their European residence could become a unique getaway for visiting friends. Rather than isolating themselves, Harry and Meghan’s new home could enhance their appeal as global figures, offering a picturesque setting for Hollywood friends to visit and a new chapter for their social lives.
Will This Move Aid in Reconciliation with the Royal Family?
With widely publicized tensions between the Sussexes and the royal family, this potential move might be seen as a subtle step toward mending family ties. Moving closer to the UK, even indirectly, could pave the way for reconciliation efforts. By being just a few hours away, Harry and Meghan would have the flexibility to attend family gatherings, participate in royal events, and keep channels of communication open with the monarchy.
Such a move could be mutually beneficial. For the Sussexes, it may lessen the intense scrutiny and reduce tension, offering a pathway to more harmonious relations. For the royal family, repairing ties with Harry and Meghan could improve their public image, demonstrating that family bonds can withstand even the most challenging situations.
Conclusion: What This New Chapter in Europe Could Mean for Harry and Meghan
If Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are indeed considering a move to Portugal, the decision would likely be rooted in a blend of personal and professional motivations. Portugal’s favorable climate, serene environment, and proximity to the UK offer a promising alternative for the couple as they continue redefining their roles outside the monarchy. For the Sussexes, establishing a European base might offer the perfect balance: a peaceful family life in a beautiful setting, continued access to their business ventures, and perhaps even a path to reconnect with Harry’s family.
This potential move underscores the couple’s journey toward a life of independence, stability, and growth—one that aligns with both their personal values and ambitions. Whether the rumored move becomes reality remains uncertain, but it’s clear that Harry and Meghan’s story is far from over, and their choices continue to inspire curiosity and global attention.