A constant presence throughout much of Queen Margrethe's reign was her beloved husband, Prince Henrik, who passed away in 2018. Known for his flamboyant and eccentric character, Henrik was a bon vivant with a deep appreciation for poetry, cooking, and wine. One of his frequented retreats was a hidden haven in Indonesia, The Damai , located in the lush and less touristy part of Bali, around three hours away from the bustling city of Seminyak.
He often referred to it as one of his favourite hotels, where he would retreat for long stays, typically close to two weeks, always accompanied by friends. The owner of The Damai Nils Ulrik Grube Normann shared a special bond with Prince Henrik, having mutual friends and a shared love for art and culture. “Henrik was a creative soul, known for translating poetry, crafting sculptures, and authoring several cookbooks focused on French country cuisine,” Nils told HELLO! “He also created distinctive wines from his castle in Cahors, France.
As the father of Frederik, the current king of Denmark, Henrik’s legacy continues to influence the Danish royal family.” The Damai held a special place in Henrik’s heart, as it reminded him of his youth growing up in Southeast Asia. Nils recounted a poignant memory: "One time, during a torrential rain, he would just sit in the Bale pavilion for hours, moved to tears by the memories and the tropical phenomenon.
" Henrik was known for his politeness and keen interest in culture, often exploring the.