Pictures showed the Princess of Wales reuniting with her family after the Three Peaks Challenge

The Princess of Wales has released a series of heartfelt family photographs marking one week since she conquered the National Three Peaks Challenge, becoming the first member of the Royal Family to complete the demanding expedition.

The newly released photographs captured tender moments as the princess reunited with her loved ones at the foot of Mount Snowdon.

One image showed the princess surrounded by her extended family, including her parents Carole and Michael Middleton and her younger brother James, along with his dog.

Another depicted Catherine wrapped in a warm embrace with Prince William following the arduous hike.

Princess Charlotte, 11, appeared visibly moved upon seeing her mother, with another photograph showing the pair sharing a tight hug.

The princess was also pictured with her arm around her eldest son Prince George, who at 12 now stands nearly as tall as his mother.

In a further touching moment, Catherine was seen clasping the hand of eight-year-old Prince Louis while speaking with family members.

Dressed in a baseball cap, T-shirt and red athletic shorts, the princess appeared radiant despite the physical demands of the challenge.

It was confirmed that James Middleton had joined his sister for the challenge, fulfilling a promise made during her illness.

He posted a tribute on social media alongside an image of the siblings embracing, writing: "Two years ago, I told you we'd climb this mountain together."

He continued: "We talked about climbing mountains while you were in hospital, and about the incredible healing power that nature can have for both the body and the mind. So it was such an honour to join you for your Three Peaks Challenge for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity."

Mr Middleton added: "Seeing how far you've come is nothing short of inspiring."

The future queen climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours last weekend, undertaking the feat solo with Mountain Rescue support along the route.

Kensington Palace shared the images on the Waleses' official social media accounts on Sunday, accompanied by the caption: "This time last week, completing the National Three Peaks Challenge. A huge thank you to everybody who has supported The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity."

The princess embarked on the gruelling trek to raise funds for the cancer charity and to "explore life beyond diagnosis."

The princess undertook the challenge to highlight the benefits of holistic healing and raise awareness of "the deeper impact of serious illness and the importance of holistic healthcare" following her own recovery from preventative chemotherapy.

In a video message recorded before the trek, she said: "I'm so grateful to be here, to be strong enough to walk these hills."

She expressed her desire to "give something back" and support The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, describing it as "an organisation very dear to me."

During her ascent of Ben Nevis, Catherine encountered 11-year-old Ted, a wheelchair user tackling the same challenge with supporters to raise money for Molly Olly's Wishes.

The princess subsequently donated to his fundraising page, writing: "One of the real highlights of the Three Peaks Challenge was meeting inspiring people like you along the way."