Photo: Courtesy HBO
Here’s how to vacation in Westeros — without the dragons.
The newGame of ThronesprequelHouse of the Dragonmay take place in fictional — and fantastical — land, but the series was filmed in part on location in spots much more easy to reach than Kings Landing.
To mark the start of the new adventure, whichpremiered on HBO August 21,Booking.comscoured the filming sites, from England to Spain, highlighting the best of each destination, and of course, a place to stay there.
Marazion, Cornwall, England
Photo courtesy of Booking.com
Scenes inHouse of the Dragonwere filmed at the town’s island castle of St. Michael’s Mount — one of the most spectacular sights that Marazion has to offer. Fans can also take a short drive to Holywell Beach where a number of battle scenes in the show were filmed.
Booking.com recommends staying at theMarazion Hotel, which offers views of the island fortress and proximity to a Cornish gem, the Minack Theatre.
Hartland, North Devon, England
Known for its dramatic cliffside views, Hartland is a must-see filming location on anyHouse of the Dragontrip.
Scenic cliff walks and coastal vistas will immediately impress fans, along with the wildlife and lush terrain that make it an ideal destination for hikers and photographers.
According to Booking.com, “both cameras and crew have been spotted shooting dramatic scenes for the upcoming series amidst the rocky formations and rolling green hills.”
Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain
The city’s cobblestone streets and walls are used to represent the ancient world inHouse of the Dragon,according to Booking.com.
To get the most out of Cáceres' rich culture and history, a stay at theApartamentos Plaza Mayor 35is a recommended way to enjoy Spanish tapas beside the preserved ruins. It also sits next to the San Juan Church and Cáceres Museum, which are must-see sites at this destination.
Monsanto, Centro, Portugal
The mountain city of Monsanto in Centro, Portugal, is known for its Romanesque architecture and stunning rocky landscape.
It also boasts the ruins of Monsanto Castle, where filming forHouse of the Dragon occurred. The fortress sits at one of the highest points of the area, offering panoramic views of the Medieval city.
For this last stop on the travel guide, Booking.com says theOld Houseis the perfect stay to witness breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. It offers popular hiking routes, and guests can marvel at the ancient 15th-century granite that the hotel is made from.
With 20 million viewers in the U.S. alone,HBO Max even crashed brieflyfor people watching on Amazon devices.
Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President of HBO Programming, told PEOPLE, “We are beyond proud of what the entireHouse of the Dragonteam has accomplished with season one.” She continued, “We couldn’t be more excited to continue bringing to life the epic saga of House Targaryen with season two.”
source: people.com
