About Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages
Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages, situated at 336 Karen Road, Karen, Nairobi, Kenya, holds a rich history dating back to 1906. The property’s main building, the Historic Swedo House, originally a hunting lodge and farm house, is located approximately half a mile from the Karen Blixen Museum and is a 30-minute drive from downtown Nairobi.
Originally surrounded by indigenous forest, the Swedo House played a central role in the Swedo-African Coffee Company, founded by Aake Sorgren and Sir Northrup MacMillan. Bror Blixen later acquired the Coffee Company in 1913 for his wife Karen, known as Isak Dinesen.
The Swedo House, representing the first generation of colonial residential architecture, features wooden structures on raised stilts. Despite renovations, the management ensures the preservation of the building’s original structure. Luxury Hotel Cottages, built in 2001 and later renovated, provide a glimpse into Karen Blixen’s rich history, with rooms adorned with portrait pictures of her.
The Hattons Lounge, named after Finch Hattons, lover to Karen Blixen, pays homage to the property’s history. Beautiful paintings of Karen Blixen in the cottages depict her life during her time there. The restaurant and cottages have incorporated elements that highlight the historical significance of the place.
Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages is located in what used to be Karen Blixen’s old coffee farm estate. Set on 5 acres of land with large trees, beautiful gardens, and a pool, the property offers a peaceful retreat approximately 20 miles from downtown Nairobi. It is close to notable attractions such as the Karen Blixen Museum, David Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage, Giraffe Centre, and Nairobi National Park.
Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages Photos
Here are Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages photos and images:
