For movie buffs, travel can be more than just exploring new landscapes; it’s about delving into the world of cinema. While famous movie locations like New York City, Paris, and London are well-documented, there are hidden gems around the world that offer unique experiences for film enthusiasts. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to unusual travel destinations that have played a significant role in the world of film, from lesser-known filming locations to quirky movie-themed attractions.
Matmata, Tunisia – Star Wars: A Journey to Tatooine
Die-hard Star Wars fans can embark on a pilgrimage to Matmata, Tunisia, the home of Luke Skywalker. The troglodyte dwellings of Matmata served as the location for Luke’s home on the desert planet of Tatooine. You can visit the iconic troglodyte hotel, Hotel Sidi Driss, to experience the otherworldly setting featured in “A New Hope.”
Coober Pedy, Australia – Mad Max’s Apocalyptic Wasteland
In the Australian outback, you’ll find Coober Pedy, known for its underground opal mining operations and its appearance in the Mad Max series. The lunar-like landscape of Coober Pedy was the backdrop for post-apocalyptic car chases, making it a must-visit for fans of this dystopian franchise.
Fort William, Scotland – Hogwarts Express Journey
All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The picturesque town of Fort William in Scotland is where the Jacobite Steam Train runs, famously known as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The journey takes you across the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct, a memorable scene from the movies.
Roswell, New Mexico – UFOs and Sci-Fi
While not a direct movie location, Roswell is synonymous with extraterrestrial life and the inspiration for countless sci-fi films and TV shows. Explore the International UFO Museum and Research Center and dive into the world of conspiracy theories and government cover-ups.
Hashima Island, Japan – Bond Villain’s Lair
Hashima Island, also known as Gunkanjima (Battleship Island), featured as the eerie lair of the villain Raoul Silva in the James Bond film “Skyfall.” This uninhabited island is a symbol of Japan’s industrial past and offers a glimpse into the world of 007.
Hobbiton, New Zealand – Journey to Middle-earth
While New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, the Hobbiton Movie Set takes you directly into the heart of Middle-earth. Explore the charming hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies.
Wales – The Town with the Longest Name in Europe
This Welsh village boasts the longest place name in Europe, and it made a cameo appearance in the comedy “EuroTrip.” While there may not be a lot to see here, it’s a fun stop for film fans who enjoy quirky references in movies.
Monument Valley, USA – John Ford’s Cinematic Landscape
Monument Valley, straddling the Arizona-Utah border, is a stunning red sandstone landscape immortalized in countless Western films, particularly those directed by John Ford. Stand amidst the iconic buttes and mesas that have been featured in classics like “Stagecoach” and “The Searchers.”
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand – The Chronicles of Narnia
Another gem in New Zealand, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park served as a backdrop for the enchanting landscapes of Narnia in “The Chronicles of Narnia” films. Explore the breathtaking alpine scenery that transported moviegoers to a magical world.
For movie buffs, travel can be more than just exploring new landscapes; it’s about delving into the world of cinema. While famous movie locations like New York City, Paris, and London are well-documented, there are hidden gems around the world that offer unique experiences for film enthusiasts. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to unusual travel destinations that have played a significant role in the world of film, from lesser-known filming locations to quirky movie-themed attractions.
- Matmata, Tunisia – Star Wars: A Journey to Tatooine
Die-hard Star Wars fans can embark on a pilgrimage to Matmata, Tunisia, the home of Luke Skywalker. The troglodyte dwellings of Matmata served as the location for Luke’s home on the desert planet of Tatooine. You can visit the iconic troglodyte hotel, Hotel Sidi Driss, to experience the otherworldly setting featured in “A New Hope.”
- Coober Pedy, Australia – Mad Max’s Apocalyptic Wasteland
In the Australian outback, you’ll find Coober Pedy, known for its underground opal mining operations and its appearance in the Mad Max series. The lunar-like landscape of Coober Pedy was the backdrop for post-apocalyptic car chases, making it a must-visit for fans of this dystopian franchise.
- Fort William, Scotland – Hogwarts Express Journey
All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The picturesque town of Fort William in Scotland is where the Jacobite Steam Train runs, famously known as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The journey takes you across the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct, a memorable scene from the movies.
- Roswell, New Mexico – UFOs and Sci-Fi
While not a direct movie location, Roswell is synonymous with extraterrestrial life and the inspiration for countless sci-fi films and TV shows. Explore the International UFO Museum and Research Center and dive into the world of conspiracy theories and government cover-ups.
- Hashima Island, Japan – Bond Villain’s Lair
Hashima Island, also known as Gunkanjima (Battleship Island), featured as the eerie lair of the villain Raoul Silva in the James Bond film “Skyfall.” This uninhabited island is a symbol of Japan’s industrial past and offers a glimpse into the world of 007.
- Hobbiton, New Zealand – Journey to Middle-earth
While New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, the Hobbiton Movie Set takes you directly into the heart of Middle-earth. Explore the charming hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies.
- Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Wales – The Town with the Longest Name in Europe
This Welsh village boasts the longest place name in Europe, and it made a cameo appearance in the comedy “EuroTrip.” While there may not be a lot to see here, it’s a fun stop for film fans who enjoy quirky references in movies.
- Monument Valley, USA – John Ford’s Cinematic Landscape
Monument Valley, straddling the Arizona-Utah border, is a stunning red sandstone landscape immortalized in countless Western films, particularly those directed by John Ford. Stand amidst the iconic buttes and mesas that have been featured in classics like “Stagecoach” and “The Searchers.”
- Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand – The Chronicles of Narnia
Another gem in New Zealand, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park served as a backdrop for the enchanting landscapes of Narnia in “The Chronicles of Narnia” films. Explore the breathtaking alpine scenery that transported moviegoers to a magical world.
Conclusion
These unusual travel destinations are a testament to the power of film to inspire wanderlust. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, fantasy, or classic cinema, these hidden gems offer a unique opportunity to step into the scenes that have captured your imagination on the big screen. So, grab your camera, immerse yourself in cinematic history, and embark on a movie-inspired adventure to these extraordinary locations around the world.
These unusual travel destinations are a testament to the power of film to inspire wanderlust. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, fantasy, or classic cinema, these hidden gems offer a unique opportunity to step into the scenes that have captured your imagination on the big screen. So, grab your camera, immerse yourself in cinematic history, and embark on a movie-inspired adventure to these extraordinary locations around the world.