Land for sale in Santiago do Cacém, Portugal — €850,000

About this land

A fully approved architectural estate project by PHDD Arquitectos, offering the opportunity to create a contemporary Monte Alentejano across almost three hectares of protected countryside.The sale includes a 29,000 m² property together with a fully approved architectural project for approximately 735 m² of construction. Conceived by PHDD Arquitectos, the project reinterprets the traditional Monte Alentejano through three independent buildings that sit naturally within the landscape, creating a private estate designed primarily for family living while retaining the flexibility to operate as a boutique hospitality retreat.For buyers considering a project in Melides and the surrounding region, one of the greatest advantages lies in what has already been achieved. Finding the right land, assembling the design team and navigating the planning process can take several years. Here, the architectural concept has already been developed and approved, allowing the future owner to move directly into the engineering, execution drawings and construction phases.The masterplan follows the natural topography of the land. An existing certified ruin anchors the project, while each building occupies a different part of the estate, creating its own relationship with light, privacy and the surrounding cork oak forest. The principal residence sits on the highest part of the site, taking advantage of long views across the landscape. Further into the property, two additional buildings become increasingly immersed in nature, creating quieter spaces for guests, extended family or hospitality.PHDD's architecture draws from traditional Alentejo construction while expressing it through a contemporary language. Vaulted timber ceilings define each house, accompanied by lime render, terracotta, rammed earth, polished concrete and carefully framed openings that extend the living spaces towards the surrounding landscape. Covered terraces, outdoor living areas and swimming pools reinforce a way of living closely connected to nature throughout the year.The approved project comprises three independent buildings with a combined construction area of approximately 735 m²:Unit A: 250 m² + 114 m² basement | 4 BedroomsUnit B: 287 m² | Common living area + 2 x 1 bedroomUnit C: 87 m² | 1 BedroomCurrent development estimates place the complete investment at approximately €3.55 million, including land acquisition, construction and professional fees. Construction costs are naturally indicative and may vary depending on specifications and market conditions, providing buyers with a realistic framework for evaluating the project from the outset.It is also possible to build House 1 independently and complete the remaining buildings in the future. Based on current estimates, construction of the principal residence is expected to cost approximately €1.1 million, creating a lower entry point for buyers who wish to establish first and expand it over time.Located in São Francisco da Serra, around ten minutes from Melides and approximately twenty minutes from the beaches of Aberta Nova and the Atlantic coastline, the property occupies one of Alentejo's most closely followed emerging destinations. The area has become increasingly sought after for its combination of privacy, protected landscapes and proximity to a coastline that continues to attract internationally recognised hospitality, restaurants and architect-designed homes. Lisbon remains within approximately ninety minutes, making the estate equally suited as a permanent residence, a weekend retreat or a long-term family project.