20 Magical Fairytale Destinations to Visit this Year
Hop on your flying carpet and transport yourself to these magical places
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Ever walked into a new place and felt as though you had been dropped into a fairytale? There are many places on this earth which look like they’ve been pulled straight out of a children’s book - places we can’t quite believe are real. In the winding alleys of quaint towns and villages, set amongst mysterious landscapes, you’re half expecting to see a Mr Tumnus-like creature pop out at any moment. Here at Plum Guide, we strive to create magic when it comes to travel, guaranteeing quality in each and every one of the exclusive rentals in our collection. We have all the spells and potions for an unforgettable holiday, including where to eat, where to stay, what to see, and what to do. Feeling inspired? Take a look at these fairytale destinations that you can visit (broomsticks not required).
1. The Isle of Skye, Scotland
A lake at the foot of a mountain on a cloudy day in the Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
It’s a bold claim, but we think that the Isle of Skye is the most fairytale-like place in the world. Even the names of the places here are fantasy-like. Visit Fairy Pools to see enchanting mountains and waterfalls, or take a short climb up Fairy Glen and say hello to the Old Man of Storr. For more magical sites, swan round the romantic Eilean Donan castle and the magnificent Dunvegan Castle & Gardens.
Storm Kelpies, Plum Guide home in Scotland, UK
2. Bern, Switzerland
A tall white spire and brown rooftops among green trees in front of a large lake and snow-capped mountains, Bern, Switzerland
Switzerland’s medieval capital city is postcard-perfect with its many fountains, narrow streets, and sandstone facades. Stroll through the Old Town, where the Aare River winds its way under stone bridges and past cobbled sidewalks. Don’t miss the 800 year old Clock Tower, where mechanical creatures wind out to put on a quirky show, every single hour. For the best views of this magical city, you’ll want to climb to the top of Bern Cathedral.
Perched Pew, Plum Guide home in Switzerland
3. Bagan, Myanmar
The tops of temples poking over the trees and clouds in Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan is one of the most enchanting fairytale destinations in Southeast Asia. This former Burmese kingdom is an ancient world of temples set in a tropical, misty landscape. Pretend you’re Indiana Jones as you explore the hundreds of temples and pagodas, or take a hot air balloon ride soaring above this mystical land. If you’re up to the challenge, you can even climb one of these temples - you won't mind the effort when you catch one of the best sunsets you’ve ever seen.
4. Istria County, Croatia
A narrow cobbled street with houses and plants on a sunny day in Istria County, Croatia
Folklore runs rampant in Istria, a land where vampires, giants, and witches call home - once you lay eyes on this place, you’ll understand why. Colourful seaside villages, cobbled streets, turquoise blue waters, and enchanted mountain villages come together to create a dream-like landscape. You’ll find olive groves and vineyards throughout Istria, and driving round the countryside sampling the different wineries is the perfect way to sightsee - though you’ll need a designated driver.
Retreat Azure, Plum Guide home in Istria County, Croatia
5. Lapland, Finland
A large area of snow with bare trees at sunset in Lapland, Finland
When it comes to fairytale destinations, Lapland is arguably the place to visit. Venture through surreal wintry landscapes dotted with glittering lakes, cosy wooden cabins, and forests of birch, spruce, and pine. The scenery is made even more special by the year-round light phenomena, whether you’re witnessing the Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, or Polar nights. Even if you’re not visiting in December, you can’t help feeling a little bit festive in this winter wonderland.
Silverfish, Plum Guide home in Lapland, Finland
6. Hobbiton, New Zealand
A small house with a yellow door from the set of The Hobbit films, Hobbiton, New Zealand
Enter the magical world of The Lord Of The Rings at Hobbiton, a colourful, hobbit-sized village constructed for the filming of the trilogy. These grassy hills are teeming with charming little hobbit holes which bring Middle-earth to life. Pay a visit to Bilbo Baggins’ home, and wander through the flowery Shire, ending your visit with a pint (or two) of ale at the Green Dragon.
7. Bavaria, Germany
A large, clear lake reflecting green trees and a tall mountain, Bavaria, Germany
With its beautiful castles, whimsical towns, snow-capped Alpine mountains, and sprawling pine forests, Bavaria is straight out of a fairytale book. Take a trip through Germany’s Romantic Road and pop by the many picturesque half-timbered towns along the way, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber. One place you definitely shouldn’t miss is Neuschwanstein Castle at the foot of the Alps. This grandiose castle is so magical that it served as the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disney.
8. Apulia, Italy
A row of small white houses with castle-like cone roofs at sunset, Apulia, Italy
Home to baroque hill towns, sparkling Mediterranean coastline, and verdant countryside, Apulia is a truly jaw-dropping location. It’s known for its traditional trulli - white-washed stone huts with conical roofs. As you wander round these trulli-filled towns, you’ll be transported to an otherworldly fantasy - you'll half expect elves, fairies, and goblins to jump out. Trulli wonderful, some might say.
Dome & Stone, Plum Guide home in Apulia, Italy
9. Lake Bled, Slovenia
A view of the small island and church in Lake Bled in front of snow-capped mountains, Slovenia
Located in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is undeniably beautiful. With pine forests on its shores, the bluish-green lake is surrounded by towering peaks. The lake has a real fairytale setting, with its medieval castle perched on a rocky cliff, and the picture-postcard church set on the little islet. Lake Bled has all the ingredients for a perfect getaway, with hiking, biking, water sports, and canyoning just some of the ways to explore the surroundings.
10. Girona, Spain
A brown castle-like wall and small houses next to a clear blue beach and tall mountains, Girona, Spain
Girona is a treasure trove of Romanesque buildings and Gothic churches, arranged around a maze of cobbled lanes and medieval walls. The River Onyar runs through the heart of the city and the best place to soak up the views is from the several bridges that span the river. It’s such a fantasy-like city that it was used in the filming of Game of Thrones, specifically the cathedral and the narrow lanes of the Jewish Quarter. So keep your wits about you, there may be a dragon nearby.
Terracotta Seer, Plum Guide home in Girona, Spain
11. Shirakawa-go, Japan
Log cabins with triangular roofs covered in snow next to tall trees and a mountain
This small, mountainous village is something straight out of a fictional tale. Its traditional gassho-zukuri style farmhouses are known for their thatched, triangular roofs that look like praying hands - the only example of their kind in Japan. You can explore the inside of the houses and admire the distinctive architecture, held together by wooden beams. We recommend visiting in winter, when they look distinctly like gingerbread houses covered in snow.
12. Tyrol, Austria
Snow-covered ski slopes and tall mountains in Tyrol, Austria
It’s hard not to fall under the spell of this particular part of the Alps. The mountain villages are known for their quintessential wooden chalets, with chimneys smoking and lights twinkling in the snow. In summer, the villages are transformed into a burst of colour, as flowers and greenery come to life. Tyrol’s towering mountains, glacial lakes, trickling streams, and meadows are Tolkien-like - definitely worth visiting no matter the season.
Snow Odyssey, Plum Guide home in Tyrol, Austria
13. Chefchaouen, Morocco
A narrow street with blue stairs and blue houses lined with colourful plants, Chefchaouen, Morocco
The medieval town of Chefchaouen is unquestionably one of the most enchanting places on earth. The striking, blue-washed buildings are the main feature here, justifying the town’s nickname ‘the blue pearl of Morocco’. The best way to soak in all the shades of blue is to wander round its cobbled alleyways, admiring the flowery doorways and arts and craft shops that line the streets. Make sure you have your camera handy for this one - the street photography opportunities abound.
14. Cappadocia, Turkey
A selection of different coloured hot air balloons floating over rocks and hills at sunrise in Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is another of the most magical places in the world. Sunrise is when the magic begins, as the soft golden light illuminates the honeycombed hills. The best way to take it all in is by hopping on a hot air balloon and drifting over the surreal rock formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys’. With its unique, hidden cave dwellings, this landscape is like stepping into another world.
15. Cumbria, England
Green trees reflecting in a lake in front of distant mountains in the Lake District, Cumbria, UK
Home to the Lake District National Park, Cumbria is known for its glacial lakes and rugged mountains. It has a strong literary history, with many writers and poets such as Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter finding inspiration from the awe-inspiring scenery. Wander round the quintessential English villages, admire the sweeping views from atop a fell, and have a picnic on the flower-filled shores of Derwentwater. You’ll soon understand why this was deemed the perfect setting for the iconic world of Peter Rabbit.
Garden of Edenhall, Plum Guide home in Cumbria, UK
16. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
A wooden bridge standing over the river by pink flowers and colourful buildings in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Setting foot in Český Krumlov feels like you’ve just stepped into a dreamy fable, so it more than earns its place on this prestigious list. This medieval town is abundant in red-roofed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and centuries-old neighbourhoods. Of the prettiest neighbourhoods is Latrán, with its Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Take a walk to Český Krumlov Castle and climb to the top of its tower for breathtaking views.
17. Hamnøy, Norway
An aerial view of red cabins standing in front of large mountains by a clear lake in Hamnøy, Norway
We wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve already seen photos of this Norwegian fishing village, as its picturesque scenery attracts photographers from far and wide. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Hamnøy’s red wooden huts stand out against the icy blue water, providing a truly magical sight. If you think this village can’t get any more spellbinding, wait until you see it lit up by the Northern Lights.
18. Gwynedd, Wales
A view of Dolbadarn Castle on green grass atop a mountain in Gwynedd, Wales, UK
Gwynedd is an enchanted place filled with the mountains and lakes of Snowdonia National Park, as well as fairytale castles such as Caernarfon and Penrhyn. Drive along the winding roads past quaint villages, including Portmeirion, a miniature Italianate fantasy village by the coast. Speaking of the sea, the best way to enjoy it is aboard the world-famous heritage steam Ffestiniog Railway, which offers a whimsical experience. Chug along the coast, before ploughing into the magical woodland of the Welsh Highlands.
Enola, Plum Guide home in Gwynedd, Wales, UK
19. Vatnajökull Ice Caves, Iceland
A person exploring in Vatnajökull Ice Caves, Iceland
Iceland is packed full with magical places steeped in folklore, and the Vatnajökull Ice Caves on Iceland’s largest glacier are one of the most spectacular sights. As soon as you step foot inside these caves, it feels as though you’ve entered a new world. The light refractions create a sparkling crystal blue effect on the walls of the caves, making it seem as if the whole cave structure is glowing blue. Again, you’ll want to have your camera at hand for this one - this opportunity for a new screensaver is not to be missed.
20. Porto, Portugal
A yellow tram in front of a small cathedral in Porto, Portugal
Set on the banks of the River Douro, Porto is a delightful coastal city straight out of a postcard. Amble through the narrow cobbled streets of the medieval riverside district, where you’ll find charming shops and cafes housed in historical merchants’ homes. With its extravagant baroque churches, beaux arts buildings, and colourful waterfront, Porto is a dreamy, must-visit destination for anyone who believes in magic (and a good glass of port).
Ruby Port, Plum Guide home in Porto, Portugal
