There has been a long association between Scotland and New Zealand. When the first Scot might have visited New Zealand is probably not known. But it is certainly known that ships carrying Scots emigrants landed in New Zealand in 1848.

Amongst these these Scots settlers was the Rev Thomas Burns, a nephew of the famous Bard, Robert Burns, whose decendants can be found in the New Zealand of today. Alongside their Presbyterian spirtual side of life, the Scots brought their passion for education and amongst the first building was a school house which doubled as a church.

This new settlement was to be named Dunedin - the ancient Gaelic name for Scotland's capital city of Edinburgh. Much more information about Dunedan's links with the Scots can be found here.

The close ties between Scotland and New Zealand mean than many make the reverse journey nowadays to visit the land of their ancesters. If you are thinking of making such a pilgrimage, why not take a look at Lochside Villa as a place where you can enjoy a week or so in the Scottish countryside.

Lochside Villa puts you in reach of many parts of the western Highlands, famous places like Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and yet also within reach of Scotland's great cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Explore our website to find out more about Lochside Villa and the surrounding area. Spend some time here and get in touch with the real Scotland.