King Charles shares Queen Elizabeth's reasons for spending her final days in Balmoral

King Charles III has reflected on his mother, Quen Elizabeth II's final days in Scotland.

During an event to mark 25 years of the Scottish Parliament, the King spoke about how Queen Elizabeth II wanted to spend her final days at one of the places she loved the most.

The U.K.'s longest-reigning monarch passed away at the royal family's Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, on September 8, 2022, at age 96.

According to the BBC, the King suggested she "chose" to spend her last moments there, despite her previous concerns that if her death occurred in the Highlands it may be logistically difficult for others.

"Speaking from a personal perspective, Scotland has always had a uniquely special place in the hearts of my family and myself. My late mother especially treasured the time spent at Balmoral, and it was there, in the most beloved of places, where she chose to spend her final days," the King said during a speech at the opening of the Scottish Parliament on September 29. 

Balmoral Castle in Scotland held a special place in the heart of Queen Elizabeth II for several reasons, both personal and historical:

Family Tradition

Balmoral had long been a royal retreat, having been purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852. It became a cherished location for royal family gatherings and a symbol of the monarchy's deep ties to Scotland. For Queen Elizabeth II, it was a place rich with family memories, where she spent time with her parents and siblings as a child.

Personal Refuge

For Queen Elizabeth II, Balmoral was a sanctuary away from the formalities and public duties of royal life. It offered her a rare sense of privacy and freedom. The Queen and her family were able to engage in more casual activities, like hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking in the Scottish countryside, far from the public eye.

Connection to Prince Philip

Balmoral also held deep personal significance in her marriage to Prince Philip. It was a place where they could relax together, and the Queen is said to have cherished the informal, family-oriented atmosphere of the estate, which allowed them to lead a more "normal" life during their stays.

End of Her Life

Balmoral's importance was underscored by the fact that Queen Elizabeth II chose to spend her final days there. She passed away at Balmoral on September 8, 2022, marking the estate as not only a retreat but also a deeply personal place where she felt comfortable and at peace.

Ultimately, Balmoral represented a blend of royal tradition, personal retreat, and family memories, making it uniquely special to Queen Elizabeth II throughout her reign.