From its humble beginnings as a remote farmstead, Quinta do Lago has blossomed into one of Europe’s most exclusive and luxurious destinations.
Located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, this prestigious resort has a fascinating story spanning over 50 years, filled with innovation, resilience, and vision.
More Than 50 Years of Legacy
Quinta do Lago celebrates over five decades of unique history. During this time, it has evolved into a place of constant inspiration, where quality of life is defined by proximity to nature, an active outdoor lifestyle, and treasured family moments.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability ensures that its natural beauty is preserved for future generations.
This dedication was notably recognized when, after a €7 million upgrade, the South Course was crowned the Best Golf Course in Portugal at the World Golf Awards. Additionally, Quinta do Lago received the 2021 International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) Sustainability Award for Resource Efficiency.
The unique history of Quinta do Lago is reflected in every corner of the resort today, embodying a legacy of lifestyle rooted in health, family, and a deep connection to nature. This award-winning, world-renowned destination offers families the chance to live their dream life in a secure and pristine environment.
One Man, One Vision
The creation of Quinta do Lago can be credited to one visionary man: property developer André Jordan. His foresight and determination secured the future of the Algarve’s leading resort. “It was a day I will never forget,” Jordan recalls. “I sat on the hill, looked across the marshlands, and I had a vision of what would become the Quinta do Lago Master Plan.”
The hill on which Jordan first laid eyes on the future site of Quinta do Lago is now the refined setting of Casa Velha restaurant.
Initially, it was a crumbling 300-year-old farmhouse, inhabited by Maria and her husband José. “Sometimes when you look at a property, you have an instant view of what you are going to do,” Jordan says.
Without road access, Jordan drove along trails and through pine woods until he reached a high point overlooking the area with the ocean on the horizon.
“Within 10 minutes, I had the concept for the whole project in my mind. I wanted to create a high-quality resort that reflected local character and style.”
A Testing Beginning
As Quinta do Lago took its first steps, it faced significant political turmoil. Despite this, Jordan’s dream persisted. From 1972 to 1974, the resort opened its first facilities: the Casa Velha restaurant, 20 timeshare apartments, a disco, a tennis club, a horse riding centre, a bridge to the beach, a man-made lake, and 27 holes of golf.
These initial developments quickly established Quinta do Lago as the place to be, attracting the traveling elite and featuring in several international publications.
However, the military coup of April 25, 1974, and the subsequent revolution put a halt to further development.
The resort was taken over by the state, and Jordan returned to Brazil. Despite these challenges, the resort’s reputation, particularly for its golf courses, endured thanks to the dedication of the local workforce.
With very few visitors, sales at a standstill, and buyers from before the revolution pulling out, the resort was left in the hands of the works committee—300 workers with limited resources, low wages, but plenty of resolve.
Their efforts helped maintain the resort’s golfing reputation and kept the dream of Quinta do Lago alive.
Golf: A Defining Part of the Quinta Story
Golf has always been integral to Quinta do Lago’s identity. The resort’s initial 27-hole layout, designed by William F. Mitchell, paved the way for its first major golfing accolade when it hosted the Portuguese Open in 1976.
This success was repeated numerous times, with the resort hosting the tournament a total of eight times between 1976 and 2001.
These events solidified Quinta do Lago’s status as a premier golf destination.
The 33rd Portuguese Open in 1989 was particularly memorable, with Scottish golfer Colin Montgomerie winning with a record-breaking score of 24 under par.
The resort’s commitment to providing world-class golfing facilities has never wavered, making it a beloved destination for golfers worldwide.
Denis O’Brien Takes the Reins
In 1998, Irish billionaire Denis O’Brien acquired Planal, the holding company of Quinta do Lago. Under his leadership, the resort has maintained its position as a leading golf and real estate destination.
Adhering to Jordan’s original vision, O’Brien has overseen continuous improvements to infrastructure, facilities, and amenities. These include a third golf course, new restaurants, the Paul McGinley Golf Academy, and a mini-golf course.
O’Brien’s tenure has seen Quinta do Lago evolve into a modern luxury resort while retaining its original charm and elegance.
His commitment to enhancing the resort’s offerings has made it a favorite among families and luxury seekers alike.
A New Chapter for Quinta do Lago
With Sean Moriarty as Chief Executive, Quinta do Lago has become even more family and lifestyle-oriented. The opening of The Campus high-performance sports hub in 2018 has made the resort a preferred destination for elite athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Its state-of-the-art facilities include a high-performance gym, tennis and Padel courts, an aquatic centre, a bike shed, fitness classes, and rehabilitation clinics.
The resort’s boutique hotel, The Magnolia Hotel, offers chic accommodations, including charming cottages, an outdoor heated pool, a cocktail bar, and a restaurant, providing a stylish yet affordable way to experience the Quinta do Lago lifestyle.
New real estate developments like RESERVA and the award-winning Lorenzo Villa showcase the possibilities of wellness architecture and lifestyle within the resort’s natural surroundings.
A full events calendar ensures that Quinta do Lago remains a vibrant place to enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle and create special family moments year-round.
Finding Your Dream Home with Immo Lusitania
Many clients from Switzerland trust Immo Lusitania as their partner in finding their dream home.
With our expertise and personalised service, Immo Lusitania helps clients navigate the luxurious real estate market in exclusive resorts, ensuring they find the perfect property to suit their needs and lifestyle.
Immo Lusitania offers a range of services to make the home-buying process seamless, including property tours, legal assistance, and post-purchase support.
Their deep knowledge of Quinta do Lago and other real estate markets ensure that clients receive the best advice and opportunities available.
Conclusion
Quinta do Lago’s journey from a remote farmstead to an exclusive luxury resort is a testament to vision, resilience, and excellence.
From the early vision of André Jordan to the modern enhancements under Denis O’Brien’s leadership, the resort has consistently set the standard for luxury living.
Today, Quinta do Lago is more than just a destination; it is a lifestyle. With its commitment to sustainability, world-class amenities, and a vibrant community, it continues to attract those who seek the very best in life.
Whether you are a golf enthusiast, a nature lover, or a family looking for a secure and luxurious environment, Quinta do Lago offers something for everyone.
For those looking to make Quinta do Lago their home, Immo Lusitania stands ready to assist. Their expertise and dedication make them the ideal partner in finding your dream property in this remarkable resort.
