HOUMAS HOUSE

Nicknamed "The Sugar Palace", the estate and gardens of Houmas House have been fully restored and embellished to reflect the 1830s to 1880s. Guides in period costume offer visitors an entertaining insight into Southern plantation life. Inside, a wealth of antique furniture and works of art adorn the house's 16 rooms. Once the home of the Houmas Indians, this site has been transformed over the centuries from a modest trading post to the grand estate that can be admired today. The property has survived a series of 14 owners, wars, floods and the test of time. Although much of the 121,000 hectares where sugar cane once grew has been sold, many of the original buildings remain and are accessible to all visitors, including the two bachelor apartments, one of which has been converted into a small tavern where visitors can sip a refreshing mint julep, a glass of wine or a cocktail.
Outside, visitors can stroll through lush gardens. Winter and spring bring vibrant colors and varied textures. Water features such as ponds and waterfalls, as well as Amazonian water lilies and exotic lotuses, create a sense of peace. The most impressive feature of these gardens is the massive oaks draped in Spanish moss that form a cathedral-like driveway in front of the imposing Greek Revival mansion. Visiting the gardens alone can easily fill a day.
In addition to a visit to the historic mansion and gardens, Houmas House boasts a historical museum (The Great Road Museum), rich in insights into the history of the great plantations and navigation on the Mississippi. There's also an impressive and magnificent collection of pipes. Last but not least, the estate also offers a wide range of restaurants. Visitors can enjoy fine dining in the original 1775 house, or a casual lunch in the recently opened café. It also boasts one of the largest wine cellars in the state of Louisiana. The addition of the Inn at Houmas House for lodging completes this destination's offering, creating an unparalleled experience along the Great River Road. Twenty private cottages, nestled along an avenue of oak trees, create a serene environment perfect for a romantic getaway.