[2025 Dunedin Attraction] Travel Guide for Larnach Castle (Updated May)

Doing a self drive South Island trip in NZ, stopped at Dunedin for one night and we chose to stay in Larnach Castle. It’s the only castle in NZ that offers the castle experience, award winning gardens, luxury accommodation, event management and unique dining experiences. We came across a good deal on their website which included the self guided castle tour, special dinner only for guests stay in their rooms and a gourmet breakfast upon your order. We arrived early in the afternoon, was kindly greeted by the staff and explained clearly all the information you needed to know. Our room was spacious and very nice view of the ocean from our balcony. So nice to see both the sunrise and sunset there. We toured around this historic castle and it’s quite nicely kept. After a short rest, we headed to the ball room for our special dinner. We’re got settled in our seats by the staff and also served with a wine of your choice. It’s a chef inspired four course menu with all local produce. We’re able to meet other guests and have nice chats. The food we’re really delicious and we all enjoyed our dinner. After a nice good sleep, we had our breakfast which we could choose from the menu. My partner and I both had the salmon with bagels. It’s good! Only the coffee was just okay. It’s a nice place to explore, stay and enjoy the food too. Fair price for such a deal. Recommend! #must see #keep in good condition

To be honest, it is not recommendable. The location is too far from the city, and the entrance fee is pretty high. (45 dollars) If you are from Eroupe or have been to Eroupe, this castle wouldn't give you any expression. If you have enough time in NZ and want to see more than what people see in NZ, it can be a considerable option.

If the previously mentioned city walk and tunnel beach hike give 80 points for the scenery, then this niche route and the most beautiful scenery along the way deserve a full score 💯! 1️⃣Sandfly bay If you want to see wild animals, please come here! Walking down, I was pleasantly surprised! The sea lion was just ten meters away, basking in the sun and interacting with other sea lions very comfortably. This is the first time I’ve seen a sea lion so close! This is probably the spot with the highest probability of seeing wild marine animals, and you can also see penguins here. The Sandfly hiking route is a bit difficult. The sand will get into your shoes and the slope is very steep. It is recommended to wear hiking shoes 🥾 and be sure to wear sunscreen 🧴! 2️⃣ Larnach castle Larnach Castle🏰 It is said to be the only castle in New Zealand. It was built by banker William Larnach for his wife Eliza in 1871 and was completed by 200 skilled craftsmen in 15 years. You need to buy a ticket to enter the castle area, 22 dollars to visit the garden, 45 dollars for the castle + garden. The winding mountain road leading to the castle has beautiful scenery. There is a large flower bed next to the castle and an Alice-themed garden. Looking down, you can see the entire Otago Peninsula! You can see many plants and birds unique to New Zealand in the park; the prices in the cafe in the castle are very reasonable! The prices of coffee and cakes are the same as those of street shops. Buying an afternoon tea and enjoying it in an ancient castle in the southern hemisphere is also an unforgettable memory! 3️⃣Fish and chips with hiking Dunedin has many well-reputed fish and chips takeaway restaurants. You can buy a portion of fried fish and eat it while hiking, which can offset most of the hard work of the special forces military training. I recommend Takeaways on Marlow, which is located in a residential area and has a Google rating of 4.7. I highly recommend the fries, which are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. If they can be paired with ketchup (not provided in the store), you will be in heaven!

This place is amazing! The Baker family has done a superb job restoring the castle and the grounds. We started by getting a map (provided at the gate) and touring the grounds - absolutely spectacular! From the precision-cut hedge fences, to the never-before-seen flowers and plants, our entire group was blown away. And the castle was no less spectacular. And the views from the top turret are incredible! This is not to be missed if you're in Dunedin. #newzealandtrip

It was a trip to Dunedin, New Zealand with family. When we visited there, one of our favorite spots was Tunnel Beach 🏖️ a hidden gem just a short drive from the city center. We explored the iconic sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean 🌊 The walk down the tunnel, hand-carved in the 1870s, leads to a secluded beach 🏖️ perfect for stunning photographs, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. I would recommend visiting early in the morning for softer lighting and fewer crowds, it’s a magical experience you won’t forget ✨ 📍Tunnel Beach Track, Dunedin, New Zealand We also visited Baldwin Street, famously known as the steepest residential street in the world 🌎 Walking to the top was a fun and rewarding experience, and the panoramic views made it even better 🙌 I’d recommend bringing your camera 📸 the quirky angles of the houses and the steep slope create some of the most unique photo opportunities in Dunedin. Sunset adds a warm glow to your pictures, but anytime during the day is worth it 😍 📍Baldwin Street, North East Valley, Dunedin, New Zealand We also explored the stunning Larnach Castle, a historic marvel with beautifully landscaped gardens 🌺 The intricate architecture and the lush greenery are perfect for picturesque moments 💯I would recommend spending a leisurely afternoon here; the lighting is perfect for photos 📸 and the tranquil atmosphere adds to the experience. Don’t miss the view from the tower, it’s absolutely breathtaking 😍 📍145 Camp Road, Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand Another highlight of our visit was St. Clair Beach 🏝️ an iconic surf 🏄♂️ beach with picturesque views and a lively esplanade. We explored the area during sunset, and the reflection of the sky on the wet sand was simply unforgettable 😍 I’d recommend taking a walk along the beach or enjoying a meal at one of the nearby cafés ☕️ while soaking in the beautiful coastal views 💯 📍Esplanade, St. Clair, Dunedin, New Zealand We also explored the Otago Peninsula, a must-visit for nature lovers ✨The peninsula offers dramatic coastal landscapes and is home to unique wildlife like albatrosses and sea lions 🦭 We found the golden hour here to be especially captivating, perfect for photography enthusiasts 📸 I’d recommend planning a day trip to fully enjoy the scenic drives and lookout points. 📍Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand #newzealandtrip #Vacation #travel

#gardencityexploration Larnach Castle Garden, Dunedin, is a true marvel. This historic oasis seamlessly blends original 19th-century plantings with modern native New Zealand flora. The castle's eclectic past meets innovative design, crafting a unique haven. Beautiful location surrounding thick greenery & overlooking stunning Otago Bay. Stroll through lush landscapes, embracing grand views and architectural splendor. The harmonious fusion of old and new has earned this garden its esteemed position among New Zealand's finest. The weather was beautiful for us and the gardens were fantastic. We wandered the ground and castle for approximately an hour, however, could definitely spend another hour taking a more detailed look. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts, history buffs and those seeking tranquility.

Visiting Larnach Castle in Dunedin was like stepping into another world. Perched on the Otago Peninsula, this stunning Gothic Revival mansion boasts breathtaking views of the harbour and surrounding gardens. As I walked through the meticulously restored rooms, the grandeur and intricate details of New Zealand’s only castle left me in awe. The castle’s rich history, complete with tales of family drama and mystery, adds a fascinating layer to its beauty. The gardens surrounding the castle are equally impressive, with vibrant flowers, manicured lawns, and hidden paths to explore. Whether wandering through the Alice in Wonderland-themed garden or simply soaking in the panoramic views, every moment felt like a step back in time. Larnach Castle isn’t just a historical site—it’s an experience of elegance and charm. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this iconic landmark offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and tranquillity. My visit was truly unforgettable, capturing the magic of both New Zealand's past and its stunning natural beauty.#dunedin #newzeland #castle #adventure

The castle was very rich with history if Dunedin. The castle us also very well maintained for how old it was and the gardens were alot better than I anticipated. If you are going here, please pay the extra to go through the castle. It was better than expected, but beware of the high road going to the castle as it is kind of narrow. A smaller vehicle is probably for the best. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway