Game of Thrones has quickly risen up the TV ranks to achieve full global domination – but what happens when it ends? With the final episode just around the corner, it’s time to think about what will fill the gaping hole the HBO fantasy-epic will inevitably leave behind.
As a show spanning several continents and countries, there isn’t a shortage of places to visit to get your fill of all things Game of Thrones. And judging by the increase in tourism in some of these areas, a lot of people seem to have the same idea.
Searching for the perfect Game of Thrones­-inspired sea views? Look no further.

Itzurun Beach, Zumaia, Spain


Located in a small town in the north of Spain, Itzurun Beach plays host to Daenerys Targaryen’s ancestral home of Dragonstone. At the beginning of the series, the castle is home to House Baratheon held by Stannis Baratheon. The beach makes an appearance in season seven when Daenerys finally arrives to Dragonstone and later again when Jon and her explore the ancient cave paintings. Geologists have congregated to the Spanish beach to observe the interesting rock formation which is accordingly one of the longest sets of continuous rock strata in the world.

Reynisfjara, Vik, Iceland


The black sand beaches of Reynisfjara may not be appropriate to sun-bathe on but its still a sight for sore eyes. The beach is seen in season seven as the base for Eastwatch-by-the-Sea, one of the nineteen castles manned by the men of the infamous Night’s Watch. Visitors who come to the beach are advised never to turn their back on the ocean as waves can appear out of nowhere and can push further up the beach than normal. The area is also rich in folklore and you will undoubtedly hear tales about a woman who was abducted and killed by two trolls – pretty fantastical, right?

Essaouira, Morocco


Essaouira is situated in the western Moroccan region of Marrkesh-Sefi, but in Westeros it’s known as the city of Astapor – one of the cities of Slaver’s Bay. Daenerys Targaryen travels to Astapor to buy the eunuch-slaves known as the Unsullied. While there, Daenerys not only buys the slaves but kills their masters and sets them free. Essaouira is a coastal city and with it comes various beaches to visit including the Plage Tagharte, a place known for its quality of water and level of environmental protection.

Azure Window, Gozo, Malta


The island of Gozo, just off Malta, is home to a 28-metre tall natural arch known as the Azure Window. Unfortunately, in March 2017, a particularly violent storm resulted in the arch collapsing but that doesn’t stop tourists from flocking to the island to glimpse the wedding place of Daenerys and Khal Drogo in season one. For diving-enthusiasts, new opportunities have arisen from the collapse making the area a top diving site. Those who’d prefer to keep their feet on the ground, however, can still enjoy the surrounding area with its magnificent views of the far-reaching ocean.

Lokrum Island, Croatia


Located on the eastern Croatian coast is Lokrum Island, otherwise known as Qarth or ‘the greatest city that ever was or will be’. In season two, Daenerys comes across the trading city after travelling across the Red Waste with her Dothraki army. She finds refuge in Qarth after a merchant takes her under his wing, much to the displeasure of the resident warlocks. Both Lokrum’s Benedictine monastery and botanical garden were used during Daenerys’ time in the city. There are plenty of opportunities to swim around the coast, but many visitors congregate to the popular lake Mrtvo More – or the Dead Sea Lake – due to its crystal-clear water.
 
Want to visit the GoT Castles? Read our special feature here.
 
Author: Aisha Mohamed]]>

Aisha Mohamed
Latest posts by Aisha Mohamed (see all)