The province is rich in history. It was also the place where Albert Luthuli, the first African person to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, died.

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According to Arlene Prinsloo’s book Charlene: In Search of a Princess, Charlene moved to KZN, specifically to Richards Bay, to focus on her Olympic swimming training in 2005. Over the years, she has returned to the area regularly.

KZN is known for its slower pace and laid-back atmosphere, a vibe that suits a princess who seeks anonymity and the ability to blend in when she travels.

Here are some of the places the princess keeps returning to and that you should add to your bucket list.

1. Five-star boutique hotel, The Oyster Box

Charlene married Prince Albert on July 1, 2011. Just a few days later, the pair hosted a luxurious after-party at the Oyster Box in KZN, reports The Witness.

The hotel is described as a “national treasure” in South Africa and is famous for its red-and-white theme, matching the lighthouse that forms the backdrop to the pool area. It is located in the upper-class Umhlanga Rocks suburb, which is known for its 5km promenade walk.

According to the hotel’s website, the presidential suite at the hotel is US$4,600 a night. It comes with personal butler service, airport transfers and a luxury bath set-up. The Oyster Box is also known for its delicious buffet breakfast spread that boasts wild oysters from offshore oyster beds in the area and a variety of pastries. Bookings are essential.

2. Luxury bush experience at the Thanda Safari

When Charlene headed to South Africa in 2021, her visit was in aid of conservation projects. She supported the South African Anti-Poaching Unit while in the country and asked her fans to support a no poaching policy, as per Hola.

While in SA, she stayed at the Thanda Safari, reports IOL. The private game reserve is known for its luxury bush experience where guests are able to view the big five. There is a lodge and tented camp available for guests to choose from. Prices start at around US$200 per night per person.

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Villa iZulu is the award-winning homestead located on the reserve. It has a swimming pool, boma, landscaped garden, Hemingway library and expansive views of the reserve. It also has its own helipad and accommodation for child minders and VIP security officers.

3. Princess Charlene of Monaco’s favourite cheesecake in Richards Bay

Charlene spent many years living and training in Richards Bay. The town is on a 30 square kilometre lagoon of the Mhlatuze River. It has the deepest natural harbour on the African continent and is known as a harbour town that gets busy during holiday season.

According to Zululand Observer, Charlene has spoken about using Richards Bay to escape from the spotlight when it was first confirmed she was dating Prince Albert. While the princess has access to all the luxury amenities money could buy, she also considers it a special place as its where she can blend in with the crowds. One of her favourite jaunts to eat at is the family eatery Elephant and I.

It’s an informal restaurant known for its wholesome home-made meals, big burgers and cheesecake. The strawberry cheesecake, which comes with a generous portion of whipped cream, is a staple for those in the area. So much so, that Charlene said she would even eat the cake for breakfast, per the same source.

Coupled with a cappuccino, this is a local gem that the princess made famous when she named the restaurant as her go-to spot when travelling in KZN. It is located in the Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping Centre and an affordable treat at around US$3 a slice.

4. Escape the rat race at Kosi Bay

One of the highlights of Princess Charlene’s beloved greater KZN region is Kosi Bay. This is a nature reserve and forms part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage site. It is located on the shore of Lake Nhlange in the Kosi Lake system and stretches to the Mozambique border and the Indian Ocean.

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Between November and January, turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the sandy beaches on the reserve. Humpback wales can also be seen during their migrations. The reserve offers forest walks and guided canoe and boat trips on the lake. Known for its isolation with limited mobile phone reception, the area is a great chance for people to get “off the grid” and embrace nature in its rawest form.

4. Dolphin Coast’s finest

One of the more exclusive restaurants is Nikos. The Greek-inspired food makes the eatery a favourite with locals, as its mezze-styled menu offers a range of options including prawns, souvlaki, calamari and kingklip.

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You get sea views while sipping on your favourite cocktail. One some nights, Nikos turns into a party, with fire dancers and belly dancers entertaining guests. The locals are known to be super friendly, so don’t be surprised if you leave having made some new pals.