Distinctly Scottish in feel with stone buildings and Victorian houses, Dunedin, New Zealand, lies on the southeast coast of the South Island about 225 mi/360 km southwest of Christchurch. This university city claims New Zealand's only castle—Larnach Castle, which overlooks Port Chalmers and the harbor. You'll also find many fine museums and galleries.
Other diversions include guided tours through the Speights Brewery, the Cadbury Chocolate factory, the 130-year-old Botanical Gardens, and the Olveston House (the original home of a wealthy merchant at the turn of the 20th century). Be sure to check out the railway station: Built in 1908 from basalt, it's one of the most photographed rail terminals in the world.
Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Otago Peninsula, home to the magnificent southern royal albatross (viewing season is late November-late August) and shy yellow-eyed penguins (the world's second-rarest penguin species). The Little Blue Penguin is a common sight on the beaches there, usually at night.
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