QUINTA DOS VALES
The page turned on an exciting new chapter in the story of Quinta Dos Vales in 2024 as a new ownership team took the helm. Building on the estate’s heritage of quality wine-making, art and local culture, João Cascão and his wife Liz, Shane Leahy and Leonie Corcoran bring decades of combined expertise and experience in tourism and hospitality, alongside a passion for experiential travel, wine-making and culture.
The foursome first met through their dogs (what better way is there to meet?) in the Algarve and went on to form friendships and professional alliances based on the unique combination of their skills and connections. Together they bring Portuguese Irish flair to the estate, ensuring Quinta Dos Vale continues to honour its history, heritage and traditions, while thriving as a beacon of quality and excellence across all areas.
João Cascao is originally from Lisbon and has been living in the Algarve since 1986. With 50 years of professional experience, most notably with a background in finance and auditing, he has brought his extensive expertise to touristic resorts across the Algarve, from Sagres to Castro Marim; in Lisbon and beyond. His lifelong passion for the arts will shine brightly in the future of Quinta Dos Vales, an area which his wife Liz, originally from Ireland and living in Lagos for almost 20 years, is sure to bring her creative and colourful flair.
Shane Leahy established Ireland’s leading luxury private tour company almost 20 years ago from his home town of Cashel, Co Tipperary, well ahead of his time. Building a trusted and thriving family business, he has become a highly esteemed luxury tour operator in Ireland and across Europe. Shane brings his discerning tastes and expert eye to the estate, always seeking to enhance the experience of all guests. Alongside João’s musical passion, Shane’s dynamic vibe is sure to be felt across the many events on the estate’s calendar!
Leonie’s travel journalism has brought her across six continents, enabling her to meet inspiring trailblazers and storytellers and finding unique and memorable travel experiences. She wears a number of professional hats, as a highly experienced editor, leadership coach and communications consultant and she brings her diverse interests to Quinta Dos Vales, across the many areas of activity on the estate. Passionate about community engagement, her infectious energy can be felt across Quinta Dos Vales when she is walking through the rows of vines, usually accompanied by Mutti the dog.
With their creative flair, all the team at Quinta Dos Vales bring unique experiences to all guests, visitors and investors from the moment guests arrive through the impressive gates to be met by even more impressive sculptures.
