Exploring the Real-World Wonders! 11 Game of Thrones Shooting Locations That You Can Visit
Game of Thrones, the epic fantasy television series, captured the hearts and minds of millions of viewers worldwide with its captivating storytelling, intricate characters, and breathtaking landscapes. One of the many elements that contributed to the show’s success was its stunning filming locations, which transported audiences to the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. While these locations may seem like distant realms, many of them are actually real-world destinations that you can visit and immerse yourself in the world of Game of Thrones. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to 11 iconic Game of Thrones shooting locations that offer a glimpse into the fantastical world of the Seven Kingdoms.
Castle Ward, Northern Ireland – Winterfell:
Our journey begins in Northern Ireland, home to Castle Ward, the real-life counterpart to Winterfell, the ancestral home of House Stark. Nestled amidst lush greenery, Castle Ward’s sprawling estate served as the backdrop for many pivotal scenes in the early seasons of Game of Thrones. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, walk in the footsteps of the Stark family, and even try their hand at archery in the same spot where Jon Snow and Robb Stark honed their skills.
San Juan De Gaztelugatxe, Spain – Dragonstone:
Next, we travel to Spain’s rugged coastline to discover San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the breathtaking island that served as the setting for Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen. With its winding staircase leading to a medieval chapel perched atop a cliff, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe perfectly captures the mystical allure of Dragonstone. Visitors can climb the steps, take in panoramic views of the sea, and imagine themselves as Daenerys Targaryen, plotting her conquest of the Seven Kingdoms.
Inch Abbey, Northern Ireland – Riverrun:
Inch Abbey, a picturesque monastery ruins located in County Down, Northern Ireland, doubled as Riverrun, the seat of House Tully, in Game of Thrones. Surrounded by lush green fields and nestled beside the River Quoile, Inch Abbey provided the perfect backdrop for key scenes involving the noble House Tully. Visitors can wander among the ancient ruins, soak in the serene atmosphere, and relive moments from the show’s dramatic saga.
Carrick-A-REDE, Northern Ireland – Pyke Castle:
Carrick-A-Rede, a stunning coastal area in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is home to the iconic Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and served as the filming location for Pyke Castle, seat of House Greyjoy. Perched atop rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Carrick-A-Rede offers visitors the chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Iron Islands firsthand. Brave souls can traverse the rope bridge, while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
Ballintoy Harbour, Northern Ireland – The Iron Islands:
Ballintoy Harbour, a quaint fishing village on the northern coast of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, provided the scenic backdrop for the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones. With its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque harbor, Ballintoy perfectly captured the harsh and unforgiving nature of the Iron Islands. Visitors can explore the harbor, stroll along the coastal paths, and imagine themselves as Ironborn warriors setting sail for distant shores.
Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland – The Kings Road:
The Dark Hedges, an enchanting avenue of beech trees in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, famously doubled as the Kingsroad, the ancient highway that stretches across the Seven Kingdoms. With its mystical atmosphere and haunting beauty, the Dark Hedges provided the perfect setting for Arya Stark’s journey from King’s Landing to the Wall. Visitors can walk beneath the canopy of twisted branches, marvel at the natural wonder of the Dark Hedges, and relive Arya’s epic adventures.
Castle Of Almodovar Del Rio, Spain – House of Tyrell:
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Andalusian countryside, the Castle of Almodovar del Rio in Spain served as the filming location for Highgarden, the seat of House Tyrell. With its imposing walls, majestic towers, and commanding views, the Castle of Almodovar del Rio perfectly embodied the grandeur and opulence of Highgarden. Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, admire its medieval architecture, and immerse themselves in the world of House Tyrell.
Bardenas Reales, Spain – Dothrakhi Plains:
Bardenas Reales, a semi-desert natural region in Navarre, Spain, provided the otherworldly landscapes that served as the Dothraki Sea in Game of Thrones. With its barren plains, rugged terrain, and dramatic rock formations, Bardenas Reales offered a stark contrast to the lush landscapes of Westeros. Visitors can hike or drive through the vast expanse of the Dothraki Plains, marvel at its surreal beauty, and imagine themselves as Khal Drogo leading his khalasar across the grasslands.
Castillo De Zafra , Spain – Tower Of Joy Birthplace of Jon Snow:
Nestled amidst the remote mountains of Guadalajara, Spain, Castillo de Zafra served as the Tower of Joy in Game of Thrones, the legendary location where Jon Snow was born. With its isolated location and medieval fortress architecture, Castillo de Zafra perfectly captured the sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding Jon Snow’s parentage. Visitors can trek to the remote castle, explore its ancient ruins, and ponder the secrets hidden within its walls.
Roman Bridge In Cordoba, Spain – Long Bridge Of Volantis:
The Roman Bridge in Cordoba, Spain, spanning the Guadalquivir River, doubled as the Long Bridge of Volantis in Game of Thrones. With its ancient arches, cobbled pathways, and stunning views of the river, the Roman Bridge provided the ideal setting for scenes set in the bustling city of Volantis. Visitors can stroll across the bridge, admire its architectural beauty, and imagine themselves amidst the hustle and bustle of a bustling Essosi metropolis.
Itzuran Beach, Spain – Dragonstone Beach:
Our journey concludes on the rugged shores of Itzurun Beach in Basque Country, Spain, which served as the filming location for Dragonstone Beach in Game of Thrones. With its dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and crashing waves, Itzurun Beach perfectly captured the wild and untamed beauty of Dragonstone’s coastline. Visitors can walk along the beach, feel the spray of the sea on their faces, and imagine themselves as characters in the epic saga of Game of Thrones.
