Larnach Castle, Dunedin |
This is the only castle in the southern hemisphere, ideally sited in glorious green rolling countryside on the Otago Peninsula east of Dunedin in the South Island of New Zealand. A thousand feet above the sea, the view seems to go on forever, especially when you clamber to the rooftop via the winding tower stairs. Australian banker, William Larnach, had a vision too in 1871 and began what many thought would end as a folly. His wealth was built from the greed and frenzy of the New Zealand gold rush and when he married an Italian heiress, such a home seemed the ideal setting for their romance. Sadly she died within ten years, as did the second Mrs Larnach, and his daughter a few years later. Finally in 1898, Larnach, then a parliamentarian, shot himself in the Parliament buildings, leaving no valid will and many questions. The castle is filled with antiques and has been meticulously restored with a range of accommodation options, while outside in there are formal gardens.
FACTS How to get there: Dunedin is easily accessible by air from Auckland or Wellington. Larnach Castle is 15 minutes drive from Dunedin. What is available: Accommodation and conference facilities set in 35 acres of gardens and trees. Dinner, light lunches and teas in the Castle Tea Room, catering for weddings and functions, daily guided tours of the castle. What else is in the vicinity: Yellow-eyed penguin sanctuary, albatross colony, many walks, horse trekking and drives. |
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