Middle Earth Map Posters: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy world of Middle Earth, then you’ll love Middle Earth Map Posters. These stunning posters feature detailed and accurate maps of the lands of Middle Earth, from the Shire to Mordor and beyond. But Middle Earth Map Posters aren’t just for decoration—they’re also an invitation to explore the real-world locations that inspired Tolkien’s imagination.
Top Attractions
Of course, the top attraction for any Middle Earth fan is Hobbiton, the idyllic home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. Located in Matamata, New Zealand, Hobbiton is a must-visit for anyone who wants to walk in the footsteps of hobbits. Other top Middle Earth attractions include the Weta Workshop in Wellington, where the special effects for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies were created, and the stunning Mount Sunday in Canterbury, which was used as the filming location for Edoras.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, consider visiting the Putangirua Pinnacles in New Zealand. These otherworldly rock formations were used as the filming location for the Paths of the Dead in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. Another hidden gem is the Trollshaws Forest in Norway, which inspired the forest of Mirkwood in The Hobbit.
Food Scene
New Zealand is known for its delicious cuisine, and Middle Earth fans can enjoy a hobbit-worthy feast at the Green Dragon Inn, which is located in Hobbiton. Other must-try foods include lamb, which is a staple of hobbit cuisine, and the famous New Zealand meat pie. In Norway, be sure to try traditional dishes like fårikål (lamb stew) and lefse (a type of flatbread).
Budget-Friendly Tips
To save money on your Middle Earth adventure, consider visiting during the off-season, which is typically from May to September. You can also save money by booking accommodations in advance and using public transportation instead of renting a car. Finally, look for free or low-cost activities, such as hiking or visiting public parks.
Outdoor Adventures
Middle Earth is a world of adventure, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. New Zealand is a paradise for hikers, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Norway is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing in the winter, and hiking, cycling, and kayaking in the summer.
Historical Landmarks
The lands of Middle Earth are steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. In Scotland, you can visit the ruins of Dunnottar Castle, which is said to have inspired the city of Minas Tirith in The Lord of the Rings. In England, be sure to visit the ancient city of York, which was a major inspiration for the city of Edoras.
Family-Friendly Activities
With its charming hobbit holes and picturesque landscapes, Hobbiton is a great destination for families. Kids will also love visiting the filming locations for the Shire scenes in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. In Norway, be sure to visit the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, which houses some of the world’s best-preserved Viking ships.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider taking a Lord of the Rings-themed helicopter tour in New Zealand. You’ll soar over filming locations and enjoy stunning views of the countryside. In Norway, you can visit the abandoned mining town of Longyearbyen, which was used as the filming location for the town of Dale in The Hobbit.
Natural Wonders
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, including Milford Sound, the Franz Josef Glacier, and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Norway is also known for its stunning landscapes, including the fjords of Western Norway and the Arctic wilderness of Svalbard.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Middle Earth may not be known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of places to enjoy a drink or two. In New Zealand, be sure to visit the bustling cities of Auckland and Wellington, which have a thriving bar and restaurant scene. In Norway, the city of Bergen is known for its lively pubs and clubs.
Local Markets
If you want to experience the local culture, be sure to visit the markets in New Zealand and Norway. In New Zealand, the Otara Market in Auckland is a must-visit for its vibrant Maori and Pacific Islander culture. In Norway, the Bergen Fish Market is a great place to sample local seafood and mingle with the locals.
Beaches and Mountains
New Zealand is famous for its stunning beaches, including Piha Beach and Cathedral Cove. The country is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful mountains, including Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring. Norway is known for its dramatic fjords and towering mountains, including the iconic Pulpit Rock.
Cultural Immersion
To fully immerse yourself in the culture of Middle Earth, consider attending a traditional Maori cultural performance in New Zealand or visiting a Viking festival in Norway. You can also learn about the history and culture of Middle Earth at the many museums and exhibitions dedicated to Tolkien’s work.
Art and Music Scene
New Zealand has a vibrant art and music scene, with galleries and performance venues in every major city. The country is also home to many talented Maori artists and musicians. In Norway, be sure to visit the Edvard Munch Museum in Oslo, which houses many of the artist’s most famous works.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities and towns of New Zealand and Norway. In New Zealand, be sure to take a walking tour of Wellington, which is home to many filming locations for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. In Norway, the city of Bergen offers many walking tours of its historic neighborhoods.
Architectural Marvels
The lands of Middle Earth are home to many architectural marvels, from the towering spires of Minas Tirith to the quaint hobbit holes of Hobbiton. In the real world, be sure to visit the stunning Gothic architecture of York Minster in England and the Art Nouveau buildings of Alesund in Norway.
Historical Sites
In addition to its many historical landmarks, Middle Earth is also home to many important historical sites. In Scotland, be sure to visit the battlefield of Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce defeated the English in 1314. In Norway, the Viking burial mounds at Borre are a fascinating glimpse into the country’s Viking past.
Biking Routes
New Zealand is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with many scenic routes to explore. The Otago Central Rail Trail is a popular route that takes you through the heart of Middle Earth country. In Norway, the Rallarvegen route offers stunning views of the fjords and mountains.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little R&R, consider visiting one of the many wellness retreats in New Zealand and Norway. In New Zealand, the Aro Ha Wellness Retreat offers yoga, meditation, and spa treatments in a stunning mountain setting. In Norway, the Juvet Landscape Hotel offers a unique and tranquil retreat in the heart of the Norwegian wilderness.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure sports to try in New Zealand and Norway. In New Zealand, you can go bungee jumping, skydiving, or white-water rafting. In Norway, you can try skiing, snowboarding, or even dog sledding in the winter, or hiking, cycling, and kayaking in the summer.
No matter what your interests, Middle Earth Map Posters offer a world of adventure and exploration. So grab your map and start planning your Middle Earth adventure today!