Nottoway Plantation and Resort, located in White Castle, Louisiana, is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in all of the south. This 150 year old Plantation, like many others in the south, began as a sugar plantation. The family originally had a cotton plantation, but once Nottoway was completed they had already made the move to sugar. John Hampden Randolph is the man responsible for this remarkable work of architecture. The land that the plantation is built on was originally purchased in 1855, it includes 400 acres of land and 620 acres of swamp. Due to the success of his sugar and cotton businesses, Randolph was going to spare no expense in the construction of his "Castle of the South." The final cost of construction, in 1859, is estimated at $80,000. This would be equivalent to about $1.9 million today. This 64-room, Greek Revival style mansion would certainly have been considered a work of art for the time period in which it was built.

The plantation home survived the Civil War, though just nearly escaping artillery bombardment, and underwent a multi-million dollar restoration and expansion. The property is now preserved as a historic site, and also functions as a luxury resort. This truly separates Nottoway from the other plantations in the area. Most plantations, when restored, act as a museum or bed and breakfast. Nottoway is the only on the I know of that made the transition to an all out resort, while still maintaining the historical feel of the property. There are over 40 rooms available for overnight stay, meeting rooms, restaurants and a swimming pool, all on the grounds. All of the guest rooms are modernized with private bath, flat-screen TV, and high speed internet. One interesting feature about Nottoway lodging is that each room has a different theme and its own independent décor. Of course we cannot mention Nottoway without also mentioning the amazing photo opportunities that it presents. The natural beauty of the grounds and architecture of the mansion make it a perfect backdrop for weddings.