Embu hotel where Richard Branson had breakfast before scaling Mt Kenya

Izaak Walton Inn where Richard Branson had breakfast on October 7, 2022. [Muriithi Mugo, Standard]

It is easy to miss the hotel perched on the hillside along the Embu-Meru Road. And while it may not have a notable name like the global chains, Izaak Walton now prides itself as the spot where one of the world's wealthiest men, Sir Richard Branson, savoured his Kenyan breakfast of mandazi and coffee.

The founder of Virgin Group could have easily flown a private helicopter to the hotel. In any case, he owns a whole airline - Virgin Atlantic - among 400 other companies! But he chose to drive up the countryside as he embarked on what he termed as one of his toughest endeavours so far, climbing Mount Kenya.