Larnach Castle

It turns out you don’t have to go all the way to Europe to see historic castles, as New Zealand has one of its own on the top of the Otago Peninsula. Only one, mind you, as you won’t find any building quite like this in the rest of the country. Larnach Castle was built in 1871, and a tour of the grounds and castle will evoke all sorts of wistful Victorian sentiments that you didn’t even know you were capable of. Especially if you know the backstory.

The castle was built for a politician, William Larnach, whose life was full of tragedy. He lost two wives, the first at 38 to a stroke, and the second to blood poisoning mysteriously at the same age. Then his daughter died of typhoid at 21. And if that’s not enough for one man to cope with, he discovered his son was having an affair with his third wife so poor William ended his life. During the world wars the castle was a mental hospital, and now it’s a majestic place to visit.

Brilliantly restored by the Barker Family, the castle and surrounding stunning grounds offers a grand tour (of one hour), luxury accommodation, and two dining options - The Ballroom Cafe, in the historic ballroom, or outdoor cafe.