Sometimes it seems like there are only two points in television history: before Game of Thrones and after Game of Thrones. The show has just finished filming its final season, and it leaves me wondering many things, such as, “Is the world ending? How does one go about purchasing a Direwolf? Will I be okay?” All joking aside, the show has dominated other HBO shows in the last few years and gave viewers a fascinating look into some of the world’s most impressive landscapes. One of the most beautiful filming locations is undoubtedly Iceland. Its diverse untouched countryside perfectly matches the larger-than-life tone the show expertly crafted and is a favorite of Hollywood production companies.
Iceland’s popularity amongst travelers is growing exponentially. Visiting Iceland and bringing the stunning locations from Game of Thrones to life has never been easier. Not only is Iceland easy to travel to, but the inexpensive and attractive travel packages certainly don’t hurt either. There are several different Game of Thrones tours you could take depending on which region of the country you are in. The tour guides have an in-depth knowledge of the show, but more importantly the country. Here is a quick rundown of the noteworthy locations these tours tend to take tourists and Jon Snow fanatics alike.
Where Game of Thrones is Filmed – Svinafellsjökull Glacier
Located in Skaftafell National Park, the massive Svinafellsjokull Glacier visually dominates everything around it. The first time you see the striking gigantic crevasses and opaque blue glacier shelves it takes your breath away. Don’t wander to close to the edge though, as it ends in a cliff-face. If you do end up near the edge, just make sure there are no Lannisters nearby who would want to see you pushed off. Brandon Stark knows what I’m talking about. The production team filmed a variety of scenes with the Night’s Watch in Season 2 of Game of Thrones here.
Where Game of Thrones is Filmed – Þingvellir National Park
Muted green and yellow plants cover the craggy rock formations of Thingvellir National Park. The national park acted as the fictional home for many of the shows Westerosi locations. The end of Arya Stark and the Hound’s saga here, where the Hound found himself bested by Brienne of Tarth. The unforgiving landscape also served as the backdrop for the Bloody Gate: the entrance into the Eyrie. Once you visit, you can see why the jagged rocks made for the perfect setting for intense and gruesome conflicts. The national park is truly a visual feast for the eyes.
Where Game of Thrones is Filmed – Godafoss Waterfall
You may also find yourself at Godafoss Waterfall, depending on your tour. Viewers may recognize Godafoss from scenes with Jon Snow behind the Wall in wildling territory. The scenes filmed here helped Jon Snow steal viewers hearts. However, Godafoss holds a special place in Icelandic history. Godafoss translates into English as, “Waterfall of the Gods.” According to myth, around the year 1000, a prominent Icelandic lawmaker made Christianity the official religion of Iceland. Apart from the theological change, he made an unforgettable statement as well: he tossed statues of the Norse Gods into the waterfall. Not only an exciting myth, but it seems like it would fit perfectly in an episode of Game Of Thrones.
Where Game of Thrones is Filmed – Hverir Geothermal Area
Hverir is a geothermal site filled with stunning craters filled with murky pools of brackish mud and smoldering fumaroles. Located in the foothills of Námafjall, Hverir looks more like Mars than it does Earth. The bright orange landscape contrasts the geothermal pools, and you can’t help but feel overwhelmed and intrigued. Getting lost in your thoughts and staring into the geothermal pools often happens, it is hypnotic watching the mud bubble and boil. Season 3 picks up here with Samwell Tarly lost, aimlessly wandering while trying to find his fellow members of the Night’s Watch. Let yourself get lost, mentally, in this lunar-like landscape.
Where Game of Thrones is Filmed – The Myvatn Nature Baths
If you find yourself at Hverir, then there is a good chance you will end up at my favorite location on this list: The Myvatn Nature Baths. After a long day of travel, there is nothing more relaxing than taking a nice long bath. Feeling the day wash off of you is both refreshing and healthy. So, why not do it at one of Iceland’s most refreshing nature baths? The Myvatn Nature Baths have a spectacular bright blue hue and are full of healthy minerals that are spectacular for your skin’s health. Relax and unwind as you float to your heart’s content. There is no better way to feel like a real king or queen of the Seven Kingdoms than treating yourself to the beautiful nature baths at Myvatn.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Iceland
Even if you aren’t a Game of Thrones fanatic, you inevitably have caught some of the show flipping through the channels. The captivating fictional history, vast scale of events, and incredible acting have captured the imaginations of millions of viewers. The show’s backdrops and set locations instill a sense of awe and wonder in its viewers. Whatever your cup of tea is regarding television or movies, when you travel to Iceland you feel like you are in a sacred, ancient place. Going on a tour of Iceland is a must if you visit. If that tour happens to bring you awe-inspiring landscapes, and the locations where your TV show filming locations, then happy accident. Right?
