The event, which took place on June 18, 2025, highlighted a Project of Potential National Interest (PIN) that demonstrates “great relevance” for the national economy and marks a new era for sustainable luxury tourism.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services – Pedro Machado, who praised Ombria's long-term vision, highlighting it as “an example of how tourism can generate a positive impact on local communities, preserve the identity of the territory and attract a more conscious and demanding visitor.” An important milestone that brought together several important figures, such as Ilpo Kokkila and Timo Kokkila (respectively, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Directors of Grupo Pontos, main investors in the project), Patrick Freeman - CEO of Ombria, Daniel Ozzán - General Manager of the Viceroy at Ombria Algarve hotel and Arash Azarbarzin - CEO of Highgate.

The ceremony was conducted in Portuguese by journalist Carla Ascenção, with speeches in English by the various international stakeholders, in an environment that reflected the global and multicultural dimension of the project.

Credits: Supplied Image;

“A long-awaited day,” highlighted Ilpo Kokkila, Chairman of Grupo Pontos and mentor of the project, which represents 20 years of commitment to Portugal and the Algarve. With a unique vision, he highlighted that the development was designed to be integrated with the local community and in harmony with nature. “We want Ombria to be a unique place, a sanctuary of well-being that grows, renews itself and continually redefines the concept of a residential and tourist environment of excellence in Portugal and southern Europe.”

The residential and tourist proposal of Ombria Algarve offers a distinct portfolio of properties, which includes the Viceroy Residences at Ombria Algarve, the homes of Oriole Village and the Alcedo Villas.

Patrick Freeman, CEO of Ombria, reinforced that “the project aspires to be an authentic destination of modern luxury, open all year round, and that reinforces Portugal as a destination of excellence on the international scene”. He also reinforced the commitment to conscious and sustainable growth, in full harmony with the territory where the project is located.

The project includes the 5-star Viceroy at Ombria Algarve hotel and presents itself as the new icon of luxury hospitality, with 141 rooms, suites and apartments, 5 restaurants and bars, a holistic spa, conference center and an 18-hole golf course that has already won international awards and is certified by the GEO Foundation.