La Rochelle, Historical estate in Imbeza Valley, Zimbabwe
La Rochelle Estate occupies about 108 hectares in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands near the Mozambique border, combining formal gardens, an arboretum, and natural bush areas. The historic Courtauld House serves as the main building and is now used for guest accommodation and hosting events.
Sir Stephen Courtauld and his wife Virginia built the house in 1951, bringing their collection of furniture and art from Eltham Palace in London. Over time, the property became an important cultural landmark in Zimbabwe's eastern regions.
The house windows bear engraved signatures from politicians and artists who visited over the decades, creating a living record etched into the building itself. These marks show how the property became a gathering place for influential figures in Zimbabwean public life.
The estate sits in the eastern highlands and is best accessed via established road connections from regional towns and settlements. It offers accommodations in individually designed suites and facilities for various gatherings, making it suitable for multi-day visits.
The property maintains rare orchid houses containing exotic plant specimens, developed with guidance from British horticulturist John Henry Mitchell. These botanical collections are complemented by specialized gardens adapted to the local climate and terrain.
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