Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, welcomed their daughter in Lisbon, Portugal, on August 3, marking a notable departure from royal tradition. The birth in the Portuguese capital, rather than in Britain, underscores the couple's increasing establishment in Portugal, which appears to have become their primary base. This move reflects a broader trend among some members of the Royal Family seeking a life with greater privacy and a departure from the orbit of Windsor.
Eugenie, 36, and Brooksbank, 40, are reported to live in a luxury villa near the village of Melides on Portugal's Alentejo coast. The couple, who first moved part-time to Melides in 2022, have reportedly grown accustomed to a sense of normality and freedom in Portugal. Eugenie has spoken about her sons, August and Ernest, enjoying life by the ocean, describing the sea as a place her son Augie, whom she called a 'fish,' loves.
Their decision to live in Portugal is influenced by their father, Prince Andrew, according to sources. While Eugenie's sister, Princess Beatrice, is said to be closer to their father, Eugenie has reportedly distanced herself from him. It is understood that Prince Andrew learned of Eugenie's pregnancy from his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, who maintains contact with Eugenie. Ferguson has reportedly arrived in Portugal to help care for her fifth grandchild, and she, Eugenie, and Brooksbank have been seen dining at a local restaurant in Melides.
Princess Eugenie is not the only young royal to have settled in this region of Portugal. Her cousin, Prince Harry, and his wife, Meghan, have also established a presence, using their holiday home as a base between California and London. The two couples own villas within the exclusive Costa Terra community, located between the coastal villages of Comporta and Melides. This area, sometimes referred to as the 'Iberian Hamptons,' has attracted other wealthy residents and celebrities, including George and Amal Clooney.
Costa Terra is described as an exclusive resort community offering amenities such as a beach, golf course, spa, and equestrian center. It provides a setting of 'barefoot luxury' with privacy, attracting a clientele seeking a blend of exclusivity and tranquility. Jose Santos, president of the local tourist board, noted the positive impact of having Harry, Meghan, Eugenie, and her family as residents, calling it a significant advertisement for the area while emphasizing the discretion of the locals.
For their daughter's birth, Eugenie and Brooksbank chose the Hospital da Luz in Lisbon, a leading private hospital, rather than a London facility like the Portland Hospital, where Eugenie and Beatrice were born. This choice offers a more clinical setting compared to the bespoke experience of London's premier maternity units.
Locals in the Melides area have noted Eugenie and Jack's friendly demeanor and their efforts to speak Portuguese. They are described as frequenting local restaurants and going for walks, with residents generally respecting their privacy. The birth of their daughter in Lisbon has been welcomed by the local community.
Prince Harry and Meghan's presence in Portugal also seems to be a significant draw. They reportedly fell in love with the enclave during a visit to see Eugenie in 2023 and purchased a home nearby. Meghan's social media has offered glimpses of their time in Portugal, including visits to local shops and restaurants. The proximity to Eugenie is thought to provide Harry with a sense of comfort and a connection to a family ally, reminiscent of their shared childhood experiences and adult lives marked by challenging relationships with their fathers.