Back in 2010, Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with Princess Diana’s iconic blue sapphire and diamond engagement ring. The couple then retreated to a mountainside lodge on the slopes of Mount Kenya for some quality time together. This secluded spot, the Rutundu Log Cabin, offered the perfect setting for their romantic escape. Despite the lack of royal comforts such as phone signal and room service, the lodge’s Alaskan-style interior, open log fire, and stunning natural views made it a cozy and intimate retreat.
The Prince and Princess of Wales continued their romantic journey at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a 55,000-acre privately owned reserve. Here, they stayed in one of the 21 tents strategically placed for optimal animal-watching. The couple enjoyed three-course meals, guided bush walks, and wake-up calls courtesy of birdsong and elephant sightings. This peaceful and wildlife-rich environment provided the perfect backdrop for their engagement celebrations, a stark contrast to their current royal residence in Windsor.
Fast forward to the present day, and the Prince and Princess of Wales are now raising their family in Adelaide Cottage, a Grade II listed candy pink residence in Windsor Home Park Estate. This idyllic setting, with its rich history and outdoor charm, perfectly aligns with Kate’s love for nature. The cottage’s previous features, including a marble Graeco-Egyptian fireplace and a ceiling adorned with gilded dolphins, add to its charm and character. It’s a far cry from the rugged beauty of Mount Kenya but offers a different kind of enchantment for the royal family.
From a remote mountainside lodge in Kenya to a picturesque cottage in Windsor, the Prince and Princess of Wales have journeyed through different landscapes to build their royal romance. Each location holds its own magic and significance, reflecting the couple’s love for adventure, nature, and each other. As they continue to raise their children in the serene surroundings of Adelaide Cottage, their memories of that romantic Kenyan getaway will always hold a special place in their hearts.