La Rochelle History & Activities

La Rochelle isn’t just our wedding venue—it holds a very special place in our hearts as the site of our very first holiday together. Once renowned in the 1950s and 60s for the lavish and warm hospitality of Sir Stephen and Lady Virginia Courtauld, La Rochelle has long been celebrated as one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic botanical gardens and a jewel of the Art Deco movement.
Imagine wandering through enchanting gardens and discovering a large orchid greenhouse filled with some of the rarest orchids in the world. It’s a place where history, natural beauty, and timeless elegance converge—a heritage lovingly shared by the Trust, overseen by the Leared family and cherished by all who visit.
For us, every corner of La Rochelle is steeped in memories. As we step into this new chapter of our lives, we’re thrilled to celebrate our union in this beautiful, historic setting.