Castle Hill

Photo Friday—Castle Hill

This photo from the archives is a few years old now, but it seems like a good place to start—Showcasing some stunning New Zealand countryside. Not too far from home, Castle Hill is is on the road heading across the island via Arthur’s Pass. The area gets its name from the huge limestone rocks that ring the hilltop which look like the remnants of an old castle.

I remember when I was younger, having read Lord of the Rings with much enthusiasm, I became convinced that this was the sort of place where you would be likely to encounter a barrow-wight. If you’ve ever walked around the rocks alone as a cold mist descends on the area, you’d understand that this is a perfectly legitimate concern.

I have however, visited the area several times in a range of weather conditions and have not as yet encountered any malevolent barrow-dwelling creatures.

For those who are keen, it is a popular spot for bouldering, otherwise it is just a great place to go and soak up the peace and quiet. (When it isn’t playing host to a tour bus) The best times to visit to avoid the crowds are bright and early or late in the day, but I’d keep a weather eye out for the undead, just to be on the safe-side.