The first seven months have been tough on the Royal Family, with health concerns at the forefront of the agenda since the year first began. Yet thankfully, the summer break is just around the corner, offering a much-needed respite, especially for the Prince and Princess of Wales ' little ones.

Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis are sure to be a source of joy and comfort for their mum as she bravely faces her cancer treatment. Catherine, at 42, is undoubtedly looking forward to the simple pleasures of summer those precious hugs from her children will mean the world - but it's not just about the cuddles; the chance to unwind away from the daily grind is a bonus in itself.

As the royals wrapped up Holyrood Week with a return to Scotland, anticipation for the summer's crown jewel event growstheir traditional retreat to Balmoral. This year's getaway is set to be particularly meaningful for the family of five, as noted by an esteemed commentator.

Jennie Bond, the former BBC Royal correspondent, shared her insights saying: "It's been one heck of a year for the Royal Family so far and nothing would please the King more than to have his close family gathered together in the peace of Balmoral for a time to take stock together, mark the passing of an incredibly difficult few months and look to the future," reports OK!.

Royal insider Jennie then went on to share insights on whether the princess will join the family's traditional summer retreat to Scotland, stating: "Like Catherine herself has said, cancer treatment brings with it a large measure of uncertainty and that must extend to whether she is able to spend part of the summer holidays at Balmoral."

"If she does go, I'm sure the whole family will want to surround her with love, support and renewed strength. She, meanwhile, will want to make the summer months as fun and carefree for the children as she possibly can after everything she's been through."

Should the family opt to stay closer to home, an extended break at Anmer Hall in Norfolk seems likely. The residence, often described as their favourite, offers a private sanctuary where they can enjoy simple pleasures like garden games, local excursions, and beach outings to Holkham Beach.

However, a return to Scotland would be significant for the princess, as it holds cherished memories, including where she first met Prince William at the University of St Andrews in 2001. Prince William's connection to Scotland is profound, with pivotal moments in his life intertwined with the country's landscapes and his time spent there.

William has often opened up about his deep ties to Scotland, a land etched with his poignant moments both joyful and heartbreaking. Balmoral in particular, holds bittersweet associations; it's where the young Prince learned of Princess Diana's tragic death and, more recently, where Queen Elizabeth II passed away in 2022.

Despite these painful memories, it was also against this backdrop he first crossed paths with his future bride, Catherine. Delving into his personal reflections, the Duke of Cambridge previously shared, "In short, Scotland is the source of some of my happiest memories. But also, my saddest."

Recounting the fateful day at Balmoral, William said, "I was in Balmoral when I was told that my mother had died. Still in shock, I found sanctuary in the service at Crathie Kirk that very morning. And in the dark days of grief that followed, I found comfort and solace in the Scottish outdoors. As a result, the connection I feel to Scotland will forever run deep."

Now a father himself, William takes joy in introducing Scotland's wonders to his children. "George, Charlotte and Louis already know how dear Scotland is to both of us and they're starting to build their own happy memories here too," he expressed.

Speculating on the family's upcoming summer plans, Jennie suggests that William's inclination to fit activities around what's best for Catherine and their children will play a key role. The family has the quaint option of staying in their secluded cottage, Tam-Na-Ghara beloved retreat used by Queen Victoria and bequeathed to William by the Queen Mother in 2002.

The Royal Family, while not yet confirmed, traditionally escape to the Highlands in August for their Scottish holiday, where they're spoilt for choice with leisure pursuits, including storytime and picnics with the King himself!

This hiatus from Royal responsibilities offers an ideal opportunity for the King to strengthen his bonds with his grandkids. He's fond of reading tales to them, so perhaps he'll delight the little ones with a rendition of The Old Man of Lochnagar, his 1980 children's book set near Balmoral.

There might even be a chance for the King to share a contemplative stroll through Prince George's Wood the arboretum named after his eldest grandson at Birkhall, established in honour of George's birth in 2013. As the Prince gears up for quality family time full of barbecues and escapades with his cousins, he might also engage in Royal salmon fishing in the River Dee alongside James, Earl of Wessex, 16, and his fish-savvy mum, the Duchess of Edinburgh, 59.

King Charles is set for a period of contemplation during his Highland retreat, reflecting on over half a year marked by concerning health issues, and Jennie believes he may spend some time out in the moors walking, as this is his "me time."

Queen Elizabeth, who passed at Balmoral Castle aged 96, was revered as the Queen of Scots, and although the Royal Family have since performed their Royal roles there, her legacy is indelibly connected to Scotland.

The late Queen never hid her deep bond with Scotland, making frequent trips for both state and leisure purposes throughout her life. Echoing his mother's sentiments, the King too cherishes his Scottish sojourns, unequivocally stating his intention to preserve this cherished bond.

The King's enduring affection for Scotland remains steadfast, and he has celebrated significant personal events there, including his engagement to Queen Camilla at their Birkhall home. This resonates with Royal history, as Balmoral was the setting where Prince Philip made his secret proposal to Princess Elizabeth back in 1946.

Although this will mark the second Summer at Balmoral without her late majesty the Queen, for William, Catherine, and the rest of the Royal family, the allure of escape that Balmoral offers is a welcome prospect amidst recent tribulations.