This month, we sat down with our Development Director, Rob Davies. Rob oversees multiple facets of the Tarafo Bay project, from collaborating with masterplanners and architects, building contractors, hotel operators, and strategic partners, to supporting financial modelling and sales & marketing initiatives.
A Career in Architecture
Rob began his career as a UK-registered architect, specialising in golf and conference hotels. For over 30 years, he has led the development of award-winning resorts, communities, and leisure destinations across every continent. He has worked as CEO on behalf of private equity investors and for major corporations, including the Walt Disney Company, delivering projects that balance commercial success with memorable guest experiences.
When asked about a personal highlight, Rob shared, “One project that truly stands out for me is the beautiful Pont Royal Golf Resort in Provence, where I spent 4 years with my family creating a resort and community environment rooted in its context and with a patina that leads owners and visitors to feel that it has been there for many generations.”
A Passion for Tarafo Bay
“From the moment I was introduced to the vision for Tarafo Bay by Tim Strawson, I knew it was something truly special,” says Rob.
Set against the stunning landscapes of Cape Verde, Tarafo Bay is more than a resort; it’s a destination that celebrates its natural surroundings, local culture, and sustainable luxury.
“What excites me most,” Rob explains, “is the chance to create a world-class resort that is commercially robust while remaining deeply respectful of its environment. Tarafo Bay can become a benchmark for integrated resort development, blending hospitality, golf, and community in a way that feels authentic and future-focused.”
A Wealth of Experience
With decades of experience delivering large-scale resorts and leisure projects worldwide, Rob brings a holistic perspective to Tarafo Bay; from masterplanning and design to delivery and operational success. He understands that each location is unique, and Tarafo Bay deserves an approach tailored to its natural beauty, cultural context, and long-term legacy.
What Makes Tarafo Bay Unique?
Rob believes its uniqueness lies in a combination of the beauty of the raw material, the land and beachfront, enhanced by exceptional design, world-class golf offerings, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. “For me, Tarafo Bay is about creating a destination that stands the test of time. I’m passionate about delivering places that people connect with emotionally; iconic yet harmonious with their surroundings. This project allows us to craft a resort that will not only attract international visitors but also support the local economy and community.”
The Long-Term Strategy
“Our vision is for Tarafo Bay to be recognised as one of the premier resort destinations in the Atlantic region,” Rob says. “A place known for excellence, innovation, and responsible development. Success won’t just be measured by visitor numbers, but by the legacy we leave for future generations.”
Construction of Phase One is scheduled to begin later in 2026, with the resort opening in early 2028. Discover the full masterplan here.
Final Thoughts
Great resorts are never the work of one person; they are the result of aligned teams, shared ambition, and a deep commitment to quality.
“I am proud of the talented team we have assembled for Tarafo Bay, who share the project’s vision and whose award-winning experience spans multiple projects,” Rob concludes. “It’s this project team that will ensure Tarafo Bay’s success and create a lasting legacy for years to come.”
Top image: Rob Davies (right) with local representative Victor Fidalgo visiting other islands in the Cape Verde archipelago.
