Larnach Castle is on the Otago peninsula just outside Dunedin. It was built in the 1870's by William Larnach who had made himself considerable money as a banker in the goldfields of Victoria, Australia. He was also a member of the New Zealand parliament.
It was built by craftsman from as far away as England in a style of the Victorian Gothic revival combined with an Australian homestead. The result was quite interesting! Sadly after family tragedy it went through a turbulent period before being virtually abandoned. It was not until the 1960's that the present family bought the property and started a period of restoration.
When we arrived in Dunedin it was raining hard as it had been doing all day. Our journey out onto the peninsula was through thick sea mist. We could see nothing as we drove along the cliff hugging road. Larnach Lodge was a welcome sight to us with our well appointed room overlooking the harbour. Sadly we could see nothing!
Fortunately we woke the next morning to a clearing sky and the view was gradually revealed to us.
We had a good wander after breakfast around this intriguing house which has a real family feel about it. The views from the roof were quite stunning both of the view
The owner Margaret Barker still works in the gardens herself at times and the personal influence is evident.
Love the one fifth from bottom.
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