I have had the opportunity to visit many plantation homes in the South, including the stunning Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, Louisiana, where I took Mum last year.

Nottoway is the Souths largest remaining antebellum mansion, built in 1859, it survived the civil war with just a single grapeshot.

the approach to Nottoway Plantation

It was a private residence until 2003, after which it was restored and opened to the public. It is now a resort destination, offering dining, accommodations, meeting and event facilities, a pool, tennis courts, a hair and nail salon and a fitness center.

this side of Nottoway Plantation looks towards the Mississippi River

the gardens originally included 120 fruit trees, 75 rose bushes, 150 strawberry plants and a variety of large trees, flower and vegetable gardens