It was a pure family affair for Henrik, Prince Consort of Denmark as he celebrated his 80th birthday on Wednesday. The celebrant and his wife Queen Margrethe II were joined by their sons, Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim, and their eight grandchildren. The Danish clan opted to ring in the milestone birthday in Henrik's native France by travelling to Château de Cayx, their royal residence located in the southern wine district of Cahors.
As members of the press gathered for the official photocall, Henrik and his family got into position and posed in the beautiful gardens of the house. Heir to the throne Crown Prince Frederik, 46, and his Australian wife Crown Princess Mary sat with their four children to one side, while Prince Joachim, 45, and his French wife Princess Marie grouped their brood to the other.
Princess Mary drew the eye in a sweeping, emerald green dress while Princess Marie opted for the pretty in pink look in a pleated frock and summer wedges. It was a heart-warming moment to see the royal family forget about the cameras, as they joked around with the youngest members of the clan and played with their adorable dogs who jumped at their feet.
Birthday boy Henrik looked particularly joyful as he waved his arms in the air and cuddled his grandchildren close, while Queen Margrethe rolled back her head in laughter. Compared to the reigning monarch's birthday in April which was celebrated in front of the Danish people on the royal balcony, the family decided to mark Henrik's day in private.