Marked by verdant natural spaces, giant mountains, cascading waterfalls and a rugged coastline, Dunedin, the seventh largest city in New Zealand is for a tryst with nature more than anything else.
Here are top five ways of admiring the Mother Nature’s bounty in beautiful city:
Admire the Moeraki Boulders
The large and spherical boulders scattered across a stretch of sandy Koekohe Beach on the Otago coast of New Zealand between Moeraki and Hampden lure a lot of tourists from far and wide. Easily accessible on a side trip from Dunedin, the Moeraki Boulders are magnificent to look at, especially around the sunrise and sunset, when they assume an orange glow. When you visit here, stop by the popular Fleurs restaurant, located in a nearby fishing village. The restaurant is popular for its fresh seafood and for offering a stunning view of the nearby area.
Ride the Taieri Gorge Railway
Now known as The Dunedin Railways, this scenic train journey takes you through Central Otago Hinterland and up the rugged Otago Coast north of Dunedin. Negotiating a stunning diversity of landscapes along the mesmerising river gorge, the Dunedin Railways covers a total journey of sixty kilometres. One of the highlights of your journey will be crossing the Taeiri River Gorge’s hand dug tunnels.
Rejuvenate at the Tunnel Beach
Surrounded by majestic cliffs and headlands, the Tunnel Beach derives its name from the hand-carved rock tunnel that visitors are required to cross to access this stunning beach. Built in 1870’s, the tunnel hides the beach away, to be accessed only by the curious amongst tourists. The 7.5 kilometres long beach has seashells scattered all along its length. The waterfalls gushing onto the beach from huge cliffs makes for a dramatic background. You laze around here for hours without spotting a single soul or attempt rock climbing up the huge rocks. The beach is best visited during a low tide.
Visit the Larnach Castle
Ensconcing along the stunning Otago Peninsula, the Larnach Castle was New Zealand’s only castle until the opening of Riverstone Castle near Oamaru. Built in 1871 by entrepreneur and politician William Larnach for his wife Eliza, the castle is a brilliant specimen of ancient architecture. Now owned by one Barker family, the castle is a popular choice for local weddings and dance balls. A major highlight of the castle for locals and visitors are lush castle grounds that are open for family picnics all year around at a nominal price.
Take a Stroll in the Glenfalloch Garden
Secured by Otago Peninsula Trust, the Glenfalloch Garden provide for a serene and green escape in the Dunedin. Along with the picturesque harbour views, visitors can enjoy a stroll amongst native flower species, including rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, fuchsias as well as native ferns, exotic imports and indigenous New Zealand trees. The garden can be visited in all four seasons as every season brings its own unique colours and fragrances. The Glenfalloch Restaurant, surrounded by a lush woodland garden, can be visited for an amazing dining experience centred on fresh local produce.