Larnach Castle - Image taken by writer
New Zealand's only castle offered our family the perfect opportunity to relive a bygone era. We took a picnic and sat admiring the historic castle from the beautiful gardens before wandering through the castle itself. While the adults appreciated the wondrous architecture, the children were conveniently occupied with the
Larnach Castle treasure hunt - counting the number of cats in the foyer, or the number of steps leading to the top of the turret.
Outdoors @ Ballroom Cafe - Image taken by writer
sits overlooking the Otago Peninsula and is surrounded by stunning countryside, which makes the view from the master bedroom all the more spectacular. We imagined William and Eliza Larnach sleeping there and entertaining various dignitaries in the music room back in the 1880s. It took 200 craftsmen twelve years to build the castle, which has been privately owned and maintained by the Barker family since 1967.
Larnach Cafe - Image taken by writer
The Ballroom Café serves snacks throughout the day and is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the old world atmosphere. High tea is served at 3pm daily for those seeking a real treat to remember.
Gardens - Image taken by writer
can be hired for special occasions such as weddings. The highlight of the events calendar is the annual Winter Ball, which takes place in the Grand Ballroom where hundreds of guests dance the night away dressed in full Victorian regalia. Luxury overnight accommodation is also available within the Larnach Castle grounds at any time of year.
Ornate roof - image taken by writer
Summer in Larnach Gardens - image taken by writer
