The Game Of Thrones series has sparked a worldwide wanderlust
The world is eagerly anticipating the premiere of Game of Thrones season 7 but fans aren't waiting for winter to come to enjoy Seven Kingdoms-inspired vacations, as Hotels.com reports a dramatic hike in searches to the stunning destinations featured in the series.
The series has inspired the imaginations of millions of 'Thronies' across the globe since it first aired in 2011. The destinations that feature most heavily throughout the seasons, and those anticipated to appear in season 7, are becoming must-visit hotspots. As such there has been a huge increase in searches to destinations in Iceland, Spain, Croatia and Northern Ireland.
Myvatn, Iceland – Beyond the Wall
For the adventurous at heart, a stay at the trendy 3 star Fosshotel Myvatn is a must. A half hour's walk from Lake Myvatn, the location used for filming Beyond the Wall. Also nearby are Myvatn Nature Baths and the dramatic Hverfjall Crater – perfect for an immersion into the wilderness that the Wildlings and White Walkers roam.
Seville, Spain – Water Gardens of Dorne
The 3.5 star Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza is a step into the lavish world of Dorne, the southernmost part of Westeros. This light, bright, beautiful hotel is just a stone's throw from Seville's majestic Alcazar, also known as the private palace residence of the House Martell.
Split, Croatia – Meereen
Want to stay like royalty? The 4 star Bella Notte Di Spalato is just the place. Situated next to the city's ancient Diocletian's Palace, this beautiful hotel is heavily influenced by its surrounding old-world architecture. Guests will enjoy wandering the narrow stone streets and exploring the hidden alcoves.
Sibenik, Croatia – Braavos
Situated just outside the center of Sibenik the 4 star Heritage Hotel Life Palace offers old world charm with all the decadent trimmings. Only a two-minute walk from the famous Saint James Cathedral – guests will stay right in the heart of this iconic city.
Belfast, Northern Ireland – The Iron Islands
With its sumptuous, yet contemporary style, the beautiful 4 star Malmaison Belfast is the perfect contrast to the rugged landscapes found in this region. Northern Ireland plays host to a huge amount of filming – but much of the action takes place at the Titanic Studios in Belfast's Titanic Quarter. True fans can enjoy a studio tour and spot the stars on set.
Essaouira, Morocco – Astapor
The ancient city of Essaouira is the filming site for Astapor, the home of the Unsullied Army. Stay in the 5 star Dar L'Oussia, located along the old Portuguese fortification by the sea, where most of the filming of Astapor took place. This unique property features beautiful traditional Moroccan design with a modern stylish flare and is located only minutes from the beach.
Ait Benhaddou, Morocco – Yunkai the Yellow City
Located between Marrakech and the Sahara and made entirely of clay, Ait Benhaddou was chosen as the filming location for the slave trading city of Yunkai. Staying at the Dar El Haja guests couldn't get closer to the action. Visitors will feel like true desert wanderers as they roam the ancient streets of this Moroccan UNESCO World Heritage Site treasure.
