Six sensational hotels fit for royalty

From a ‘glamping’ lodge deep in Australia’s outback to a beloved British hotel fit for a queen, the UK’s royal family has stayed in some of the world’s most spectacular hotels. Travel writer Andrea Bartz explores the remarkable properties that have felt the royal touch

Longitude 131, Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia

The words ‘camping’ and ‘royalty’ don’t often go together, but in 2014 the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge stayed at this luxury desert basecamp in one of 16 tented pavilions. In Australia’s outback, William and Kate slept in a luxury tent and enjoyed a walk around Uluru, the natural monolith formerly known as Ayers Rock. They also learnt about traditional dot painting and hunting methods from the local Anangu people.

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Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Set on the coast of the Adriatic Sea and boasting sweeping views of the Old City of Dubrovnik, this lavish hotel has hosted various visiting royals: King Edward VIII and his fiancée Wallis Simpson in 1936, Queen Elizabeth II in 1972 and Princess Margaret in 1977. All slept in the sprawling presidential suite, a two-bedroom, two-bath penthouse with a balcony overlooking the charming city.

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Broadmoor Resort, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA

In 2013, Prince Harry participated in Colorado’s Warrior Games, a competition for ill and injured service members and veterans. He stayed at the five-star Broadmoor Resort tucked into the Rocky Mountains. Known for ranch-style activities and stunning views, the hotel also hosted Harry’s aunt, Princess Anne, in 1982.

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The Goring, London

Dating back over 100 years, this hotel is a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, has been dubbed ‘the royal annex’ thanks to frequent visits from members of royalty. Kate Middleton spent the night before her wedding here, and the Queen Mother is rumoured to have been a frequent guest – she’s said to have enjoyed the hotel’s Eggs Drumkilbo, an indulgent egg-and-lobster dish. The hotel has even been granted a Royal Warrant.

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Suján Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur, India

Built in 1729 by Jaipur’s Maharaja as a garden retreat for his wife, this palace became the official home of the British Resident Political Officer in 1821, and remained a British residency until India’s independence in 1947. Over the decades, the luxurious, 14-room residence has hosted Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as Princess Diana and Prince Charles. In fact, the Queen Elizabeth II Suite was built for Her Majesty’s state visit in 1961.

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The Dorchester, London

This iconic hotel overlooking London’s Hyde Park is known for its opulent interior and over-the-top service, and has a history of housing members of the monarchy. As children, Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret attended birthday parties here, and in 1947 Elizabeth attended a dinner party at The Dorchester the night before announcing her engagement. Prince Philip celebrated his stag party here and has been a regular guest of honour ever since.

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This article has been tagged Destination, Hotels