Moving to Portugal – What are affluent expats looking for when relocating?

With its attractive climate, beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it is no wonder so many people are looking to make the move to Portugal. 

The country provides a blend of old-world charm and modern convenience, making it an ideal location for expats looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a high quality of life. 

With so much on offer, what should you keep an eye out for?

Let’s take a look at the some of the things affluent expats look for when relocating to Portugal.

Outdoor pursuits and wellness

One of the most significant draws of Portugal for affluent expats is the abundance of leisure activities. The country’s varied landscapes, from stunning coastlines to rolling hills and scenic countryside, offer something for every interest. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, Portugal is a paradise. 

The Algarve is renowned for its world-class golf courses, making it a popular destination for expats who enjoy the sport. Courses such as those at Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo offer lush fairways and challenging play, all set against a backdrop of breath-taking ocean views.

Ferragudo and neighbouring Carvoeiro are fast becoming prime destinations for those looking to relax as they take in the unspoiled stretches of coast and local culture.

The exclusive Secret Gardens, comprising of a micro-vineyard and unique stargazing observatory at the new luxury development Quinta Heights promises unparalleled star gazing for its residents thanks to low levels of light pollution. 

Water sports are another major attraction, with surfing and sailing opportunities up and down the coast. 

The west coast, especially areas like Ericeira and Nazaré, is known for its surf culture, with waves that draw surfers from around the world. Sailing enthusiasts are attracted to the Algarve’s marinas, particularly in Lagos and Vilamoura, where yachting is a popular pastime. 

For those seeking a more leisurely approach to outdoor activities, hiking through the country’s natural parks, such as the Rio Formosa Nature Park in the Algarve, and exploring its vineyards are favourite pastimes. 

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only famed for its port wine but also for its stunning scenery and hiking trails that wind through terraced vineyards and along the Douro River.

Culture and Authenticity

What sets Portugal apart from other expat destinations is its ability to offer truly authentic experiences. 

While the country has seen a rise in tourism, it has managed to retain its cultural identity, making it a perfect place for those looking to connect with the local way of life. 

Expats seeking to immerse themselves in the culture often participate in Portugal’s many festivals and traditions, such as Lisbon’s annual Festa de Santo António, where locals take to the streets to celebrate with music, dancing, and grilled sardines. 

In Porto, the Festa de São João fills the city with fireworks, parades, and vibrant celebrations, giving expats a chance to experience the joy and community spirit that defines Portuguese culture.

In the Algarve, Ferragudo hosts the annual Festa de Nossa Senhora de Conceição, featuring processions, live music and traditional Portuguese cuisine. Traditionally, the event opens the summer season, and festivities continue through until early October.

Learning the language, while not a necessity, is another key factor for those seeking authenticity.

While many Portuguese speak English, especially in urban areas, expats who make the effort to learn Portuguese find themselves more fully integrated into the community, able to engage in meaningful conversations with locals and truly understand the subtleties of the culture.

Fine dining

Portugal’s culinary scene is a major factor for expats, offering a delicious blend of tradition and innovation. The country is known for its simple yet flavourful cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood. 

Coastal towns such as Cascais and Lisbon offer a bounty of seafood options. Dishes like grilled sardines, octopus salad, and bacalhau (salted cod) are mainstays in the Portuguese diet and reflect the country’s deep connection to the sea. 

For an authentic experience, expats can enjoy meals at local tascas, family-run eateries that serve traditional Portuguese dishes in a casual atmosphere.

For more refined tastes, Portugal boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. 

Restaurants such as Belcanto in Lisbon and Vila Joya in the Algarve provide a fine dining experience that showcases Portuguese flavours with a modern twist, appealing to those seeking gourmet cuisine. 

Ferragudo’s Rei das Praias beachside restaurant featured in Condé Nast, championing its charm and commitment to authentic local cuisine, excellent wine list and views out to sea. Nearby is the O Barradas vineyard, brewery and courtyard restaurant with stunning vistas, just up the road from the Quinta Heights development.

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