While Canadian royal watchers were hopeful to be hosting Prince Harry and Meghan Markle just weeks after saying “I do,” it sadly won’t be happening – at least not for their honeymoon (a royal tour to Canada may still be in the cards!). While it was originally reported by TMZ that the couple had traded their African escape for a natural wonderland just north of the American border in Alberta, Canada, it simply isn’t so according to a statement from the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

The luxurious Canadian lodge revealed that the newlyweds haven’t scheduled a stay, saying, “Though Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge has a longstanding history of serving as a royal retreat, we can confirm that the couple is not currently booked for a stay. We are declining further comment at this time, as our top priority is always the safety and privacy of all of our guests. We appreciate your understanding.”

Prince Harry and Meghan wed on May 19 at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor. Photo: © Alexi Lubomirski

Earlier in the day, TMZ had reported that Prince Harry and Meghan were supposed to be heading to the Fairmont’s pricey Outlook Cabin, which has hosted royals in the past. Known for their love of nature, it came as little surprise that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex might want to explore one of their beloved Commonwealth countries, especially when they have close ties to Canada. Meghan lived in Toronto for seven years while filming Suits and they made their official debut as a duo when the Canadian city hosted the Invictus Games in 2017.

The Canadian paradise has housed many royals in the past, including King George VI and The Queen Mother way back in 1939. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip also stayed there in June 2005, while Hollywood heavyweights like Anthony Hopkins and John Travolta have touched down on vacation getaways With its picturesque landscape and stunning turquoise glacier waters, the luxury hotel located right in Jasper National Park is a true gem of the Great White North.

And the cabin itself is nothing to sneeze at either! Ringing in at $8,850, the spot boasts 6,000 square feet and comes equipped with a veranda, private parking, a terrace with barbecue, six bedrooms and six bathrooms. Though the original building was lost in a fire 18 years ago, it was rebuilt using the exact same blueprint to maintain its authenticity.

It was originally thought that Harry and Meghan would be setting up camp in Namibia or Botswana for their honeymoon. After all, Harry has called the country his “second home,” one that was also dear to his mother, Princess Diana, and it’s where he and Meghan shared their first getaway as a couple. And while rumours of a Canadian getaway were exciting to Canuck fans, perhaps the pair will be heading to Africa, after all! Some believe them to already be on their honeymoon, given Harry’s absence at a charity polo match in Gloucester at which he’s usually a fixture with big brother Prince William.

Filed under: Alberta, Kensington Palace, kissmornings, Meghan Markle, prince-harry, Royal Wedding