You’ve seen it mentioned in blogs and on travel pages, but you might be wondering, what exactly is Fantasy Travel?
Fantasy travel encompasses journeys inspired by popular books, movies, and legends. This type of travel allows enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the worlds of their favorite stories, such as Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and Game of Thrones to name a few.
Popular Fantasy Travel Locations
Whether you’re a fan of epic adventures, magical realms, or legendary folklore, these fantasy travel spots offer the perfect escape into your favorite stories.
New Zealand
New Zealand is a treasure trove of fantasy travel options. One of the prime examples is visiting the filming location for “The Lord of the Rings.” But it extends beyond the iconic landscapes of this popular movie series, and includes the breathtaking scenery of the South Island where you can see the meticulously crafted Hobbiton set from the movie “The Hobbit.”
Set in Matamata, where the lush green hills and charming hobbit holes bring Tolkien’s world to life. Adventure seekers can visit the stunning Fiordland National Park, which served as the backdrop for numerous Middle-Earth scenes, or take a guided tour of the Wellington film studios where much of the magic happened. For those interested in Māori mythology, Rotorua offers immersive cultural experiences that delve into the rich stories and legends of New Zealand’s indigenous people. With its breathtaking scenery and rich storytelling heritage, New Zealand truly is a fantasy traveler’s dream destination
England
London is a premier destination for fantasy travel, offering a multitude of experiences that transport visitors into the worlds of their favorite stories. Beyond the renowned Harry Potter Studio Tour, where fans can see authentic sets, costumes, and props from the films, the city is rich with literary and cinematic history. Visitors can explore the actual filming locations used throughout the Harry Potter series, such as the picturesque Leadenhall Market, which served as Diagon Alley, the iconic Millennium Bridge, and King’s Cross Station’s Platform 9 ¾.
Literary enthusiasts can wander through Bloomsbury, home to the British Museum and the former haunt of J.K. Rowling, as well as the residence of Charles Dickens. Sherlock Holmes fans can visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum and enjoy a walking tour of filming locations from the BBC series.
Scotland
Along with London, Edinburgh, Scotland, the city where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the series, offers several must-visit spots. Places such as The Elephant House café, where she penned early chapters, and the nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard, which inspired many character names. The Balmoral Hotel, where Rowling completed the final book, even features a suite named in her honor.
Beyond Edinburgh, fans can take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, known to Harry Potter fans as the Hogwarts Express, traveling across the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Scotland’s rich folklore adds another layer to its fantasy allure, with sites like the mystical Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye and the ancient standing stones at Callanish, which echo the country’s deep mythical heritage.
Other Notable Fantasy Travel Locations
These locations may not be as famous, but they offer equally magical experiences that will captivate any fantasy enthusiast.
Romania
Romania is a significant destination for those interested in vampire lore, particularly the legend of Dracula, inspired by Vlad the Impaler. The country’s historical sites and folklore provide a deep dive into this dark and mysterious legend.
Scandinavia
Known for its rich Viking history, offers numerous opportunities to learn about Viking culture through museums, replicas of ships, and historical sites across Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
Germany & France
Germany’s Fairy Tale Road takes travelers through locations that inspired the Brothers Grimm, including Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. The villages of Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé in France’s Alsace region, which inspired the setting for “Beauty and the Beast,” are also noteworthy.
In essence, fantasy travel is about exploring places that bring the magic of books, movies, and legends to life. These destinations allow you to experience the enchantment and adventure of your favorite stories while creating lasting memories.
Is Fantasy Travel on Your Bucket List?
If this kind of travel experience strikes your fancy, we know just the guy! Since extensive fantasy travel isn’t in our wheelhouse at our agency, (we really only know the Harry Potter stuff) we know someone who specializes ONLY in fantasy travel.
Our friend and colleague, Rocky Dimico, is a passionate advocate for fantasy travel, and has dedicated his career to helping others experience the wonder and excitement of these magical destinations – and in a LOT of depth. His extensive knowledge and personal enthusiasm for all things fantasy make him the perfect guide for planning your fantasy travel dream vacation.
If this type of vacation interests you, we can connect you with Rocky to create a customized fantasy travel itinerary. Whether you’re a fan of epic adventures, magical worlds, or mysterious legends, Rocky will ensure your journey is unforgettable. Contact us today to get connected.
