Discover New Zealand’s only castle on a 3-hour Otago Peninsula tour with Fantail Tours, where history meets breathtaking coastal landscapes. Step inside Larnach Castle and stroll its renowned gardens for a unique outdoor adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking at a moderate pace over mostly even terrain.
Wildlife
History
Larnach Castle was built in the 1870s by William Larnach, a prominent politician and entrepreneur; it remains New Zealand's only castle.
Conservation
Efforts in the Otago Peninsula focus on protecting endangered species like the yellow-eyed penguin while maintaining historic gardens sustainably.
Fantail Tours
Discover New Zealand’s only castle on a 3-hour Otago Peninsula tour with Fantail Tours, where history meets breathtaking coastal landscapes. Step inside Larnach Castle and stroll its renowned gardens for a unique outdoor adventure.
Fantail Tours is a Dunedin-based tour operator offering guided small-group and private tours across Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. The company showcases local heritage, wildlife and scenery through a diverse range of experiences, from one-hour Honey Hive and Bees sessions to full six-hour city and peninsula excursions. Highlights include guided visits to Larnach Castle and its gardens, a private or small-group look at Dunedin city highlights such as Baldwin Street and the Dunedin Railway Station, and multiple wildlife-focused outings to the Royal Albatross Centre and Penguin Place.
Tours blend cultural history with natural history: city heritage routes visit Olveston, Signal Hill, and the Botanic Garden, while peninsula journeys travel Highcliff Road and coastal overlooks for scenic photography. Wildlife options feature evening Little Blue Penguin viewing at sunset, guided albatross tours, and opportunities to spot yellow-eyed and little blue penguins in their habitats. The Honey Hive and Bees Tour provides hands-on beekeeping insights, frame handling, and conservation education in a short interactive session.
Fantail Tours offers private customizable itineraries for groups up to six and small group departures for more social experiences. Local guides focus on storytelling, accessible pacing, and photo opportunities tailored to guest interests. Visitors choose Fantail Tours for varied durations, wildlife encounters, and curated heritage tours centered on Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Services include both morning and afternoon departures, flexible pick-up from Port Chalmers or central Dunedin, and options tailored to photographers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts. Guides provide local insights and responsible wildlife viewing practices for visitors.
Location
Dunedin, Otago
Based in Dunedin, New Zealand
Tours Offered
11
Small-group and private options
Duration Range
1–6 hours
Short sessions to full day tours
Highlights
Larnach, Albatross, Penguins, Bees
Heritage, wildlife and beekeeping
Reserve small-group or private tours to Larnach Castle, Royal Albatross, Penguin Place or the Honey Hive — availability varies seasonally, so check departure times and book early.
Comfortable Footwear Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on garden paths and uneven surfaces around the castle grounds.
Check Weather Conditions
Otago Peninsula can be windy and changeable—bring a windbreaker or rain jacket to stay comfortable during outdoor sections.
Tours Suit All Ages
This 3-hour experience is designed to be family-friendly with minimal physical strain, making it accessible to most visitors.
Photography Allowed
Capture the castle’s architecture and sweeping peninsula views, but flash photography inside the castle may be restricted.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes help navigate garden paths and castle grounds comfortably.
Windbreaker or Light Rain Jacket
Essential for protection from Otago Peninsula’s frequent wind and possible rain showers.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning architecture and coastal vistas throughout the tour.
Sunscreen and Hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure during sunny sections of the tour.
summer