As a Lord of the Rings fan, it’s normal that regular landscapes don’t seem appealing to you as you are already spoiled by the film’s enchanting landscapes that brought Middle-earth to life on screen. To take a closer look at the Lord of the Rings filming locations and feel like a part of J.R.R. Tolkien’s world is full of adventure, you must visit some of their wonderful real-life filming destinations with beauty like no other.
For those who don’t know, The Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed in over 150 locations in New Zealand. Since Lord of the Rings is considered one of the greatest fantasy books ever written, each Lord of the Rings location was carefully chosen for its mystery and beauty.
7 Lord of the Rings Filming Locations for Fans of Middle-earth:
1. Hobbiton? It Is In Matamata, NZ…
One of the most iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations is Hobbiton, Matamata in New Zealand. It’s amongst the most popular Middle-earth locations to visit, known for its gorgeous green hills. Hobbiton is the set for the Shire, home of the hobbits.
On your trip to Hobbiton, you will get to see hobbit holes, tall hills, and cozy pubs that will make you experience Middle-earth coming to life. There are special tours arranged for tourists where you can spend time exploring the place and enjoying the food like a hobbit.
2. Edoras? It Is In Christchurch, NZ…
Mount Sunday, Christchurch was the filming location for Edoras, the capital of Rohan. The remote hill will let you enjoy the enchanting views of the nearby plains and mountains with the beauty of Rohan. As you roam around the mountain, you will feel like walking through the golden halls of Edoras. Plus, if you are an adventure seeker, then a visit to Mount Sunday will be the ideal treat.
3. Mordor? It Was Filmed At Tongariro National Park, NZ…
Walking into the Tongariro National Park will make you feel close to the mystery of Mordor. Its dramatic landscape with three active volcanoes—namely Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu—rugged peaks, and strange atmosphere make it an offbeat destination. Tourists are allowed to hike on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing that will pass through Mount Ngauruhoe, aka Mount Doom, in the Lord Of The Rings movies.
4. Fangorn Forest? Go To Fiordland National Park, NZ…
Remember the epic scene where the Eagles rescue Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings? It was filmed here! Take a scenic helicopter tour over Fiordland National Park in New Zealand to see the stunning beauty of Fangorn Forest—it’s truly mesmerizing. Fiordland National Park is one of the most treasured natural icons of the country. It’s a stunning Lord of the Rings filming location to visit with picturesque scenery, uninhabited environments, pristine water, and tall mountains.
You can enjoy boat tours, hiking, or even overnight stays for a more immersive Lord Of The Rings experience. Particularly, you can visit the Milford Sound, which is a combination of tall ink-dark mountains, waterfalls, and rainforests that is another stunning attraction to visit.
5. Rivendell? It Is In Kaitoke Regional Park, NZ…
Do you want to visit Rivendell from the Lord Of The Rings trilogy? If yes, then take a trip to the Kaitoke Regional Park, near Wellington, which served as its filming location with unmatched beauty. Its dense forest, pristine rivers, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the best Lord of the Rings places to explore.
You can walk through the special trails that are filled with informative boards about the filming. Moreover, you can wander around the Osgiliath Wood, Helm’s Deep, Minas Tirith, and the Outer Shire. Also, don’t forget to see the beautiful replicas of Elven arches and symbols.
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6. River Anduin? That Place Is Waiau River, NZ…
Do you like the River Anduin surrounded by forests that was seen in the opening aerial shot of The Fellowship of the Ring? River Anduin in the film is the Waiau River with clear water and breathtaking surroundings that seem straight out of an epic treasure hunt novel.
There are special river cruises or scenic flights where you can closely experience the beauty of the place. If you want to know a lesser-known Lord of the Rings shooting location, the Waiau River should top the list.
7. Paths of the Dead? It Is In Putangirua Pinnacles, NZ…
The Lord of the Rings brought a new world to life on-screen, and it’s surprising to know that most of its locations are the hidden gems of New Zealand. Among other out-of-the-world destinations shown in the film, this one stands out for its mysterious and haunting landscape. It was shown as the Paths of the Dead in the films. You can go on a hike and take a closer look at the pinnacles and towering rocks to feel like you’ve entered Middle-earth.
Final Words
If you are a true fan of The Lord Of The Rings, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore these gorgeous and unique Lord of the Rings filming locations for your trip to Middle-earth. From Hobbiton to the haunting Putangirua Pinnacles, these places will bring Tolkien’s world to life in front of your eyes. Also, if you are just an adventure seeker or a dedicated tourist, you can visit Lord of the Rings locations that offer an unforgettable travel experience for life.
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