Published By: Puja Sinha

Picturesque "House of the Dragon" Locations for your Bucket List

The American fantasy drama series is set in some real-world scenarios, and here is your chance to visit the meadows, hilltop castles, and barren, romantic beaches for the vibes.

 Prequel to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragons has survived with a crazy fan following, and some of its beauty is rooted into its scenic and mythical landscapes that would surely transport you to some other dimension. The battles, fire-breathing beasts, and phantasmal are all parts of the world we inhabit. Let’s take a look at the extraordinary elements of HOD that keep viewers hooked.

Prophecies and Visions

Prophecies and visions significantly influence the characters' decisions and the plot's direction. These often involve foretelling the future, interpreting dreams, or understanding omens, which adds a mystical layer to the storyline.

Ancient Houses and Lineages

The story emphasizes the ancient and noble houses of Westeros, each with its history, heraldry, and supernatural connections. The Targaryens are tied to the lore of old Valyria, a civilization known for its dragons and magic.

Mythical Creatures and Beings

Besides dragons, the world includes other mythical creatures and beings, such as the White Walkers, though they are more prominent in "Game of Thrones." The lore and legends surrounding these beings continue influencing the characters and their worldviews.

Here are five shortlisted locations for a quick tour.

St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

The ancestral seat of House Velaryon is set on this Cornish Island, an outwardly beautiful place with a winding path by the beach. The isle is completely shut off from the world during high tide, which gives this place an amazing abandoned dura to fall in love with. Climb for the panoramic views and hike to the nearby beaches Kynance Cove and Holywell Bay for the HOD feels.

Monsanto, Portugal

Dragonstone, a key location in "House of the Dragon" and the "Game of Thrones,” and many of its key landmarks—The Great Hall and Stone Drum, are located in Monsanto. Dragonstone Castle is a formidable and ancient fortress with imposing walls, spires, and dragon-shaped gargoyles. The castle's architecture reflects the Targaryen legacy, with dragon motifs and Valyrian influences evident throughout. A chunk of the show was filmed in a fairy-tale, hilltop hamlet of Portugal, a place that lent much of the magic and allure to the story.

Cave Dale, Peak District

The idyllic beauty of Cave Dale is characterised by steep limestone walls, rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and a calm sense of solitude with several small and crystal-clear streams flowing through. If you have followed the footsteps of Daemon Targaryen, you must have had a chance encounter with this place in the fifth episode of the show where Daemon gets rid of his first wife, Lady Rhea Royce. As you walk through Cave Dale, you can catch glimpses of the Peveril Castle perched high above on the cliffs. The castle ruins add a touch of intrigue and mystify its surroundings.

Trujillo, Spain

The show definitely benefits from the town's historical ambience and architectural splendour, enhancing visual storytelling and immersing viewers in its fantasy world. It serves as the King’s Landing and emanates the medieval vibes, the enchanting aura of a lost world. Trujillo’s visual and cultural beauty extends beyond its architecture. The town’s festivals, culinary scenes, and traditional practices, entice visitors from across the world.

La Calahorra, Spain

The free city of Pentos is Castillo de La Calahorra, an exquisite 16th-century fortress that lies imposingly above the terracotta-ceiling village in Grenada. The castle is a testimony to the splendid Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Its robust, fortress-like exterior contrasts with the elegance of its interior, which features intricate details and beautifully crafted decorations. The solitary castle is surrounded by vast plains and mountains, evoking a sense of timelessness and grandeur.