Booktok Travel Guide: 10 Destinations For Romantasy Books Readers

This curated travel guide is for lovers of the Romance Fantasy genre, who find solace in the arms of mystical realms. Within the pages of your cherished Romantasy books, you’ve undoubtedly traversed the boundaries of the unknown and had your imagination fuelled by some of the magical places created by your favourite authors.

Now, imagine stepping into worlds that are the very embodiment of the stories you hold dear. Each destination in this guide is steeped in lore, brimming with the essence of magic and folklore. From the eerie whisperings of the winds through ancient ruins to the serene beauty of landscapes untouched by time, these places promise an adventure not just of the body, but of the soul.

For those who dare to dream, for the incorrigible romantics, and for the intrepid explorers of the unseen, let this be your guiding star to the farthest reaches of our world—where magic isn’t merely a fanciful notion, but where the air around these places is teeming with it.

1. Avebury, England

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Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, Avebury’s ancient stone circles tell tales as old as time itself. Unlike its more famous cousin, Stonehenge, Avebury allows an up-close experience with its megalithic wonders, inviting you to touch and feel the pulse of Earth’s ancient magics. Avebury is home to the world’s largest prehistoric stone circle, constructed over several centuries in the Neolithic period, around 2850 BC to 2200 BC.

The site has long been associated with various forms of earth energies and ley lines, hypothetical alignments that connect significant landscapes across the globe.

Several legends and myths are interwoven with the stones of Avebury, adding layers of enchantment to its history:

• The Devil’s Chair: One of the largest stones is known as the Devil’s Chair, and local folklore suggests sitting in it can increase one’s chances of fertility or bring other fortune. However, legend also warns that the Devil himself throws stones at the village church at night.
• The Barber Surgeon Stone: This stone is associated with a tale of a barber-surgeon from the medieval period who was crushed under a stone while digging around it, his scissors and money pouch found centuries later during excavations. This story adds a ghostly layer to Avebury’s mystique, with some claiming to feel his presence.
• The Obelisk and The Cove: The center of the circle once held a massive obelisk, surrounded by smaller stones known as The Cove. These features are believed to have held significant spiritual or ritualistic importance, possibly serving as focal points for ceremonies or gatherings. The precise nature of these rituals is lost to time, but they contribute to the aura of mystery that envelops the site.

2. Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye, Scotland

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This lesser-known, enchanting spot on the Isle of Skye is rumored to be the home of fairies. With its small grassy hills, lochans (ponds), and peculiar land formations, Fairy Glen invites visitors into a world straight out of a fantasy novel.

While there is no single legend that gives Fairy Glen its name, the entire Isle of Skye is steeped in myths and folklore about the “wee folk” or faeries. The Glen’s magical appearance lends itself easily to the belief in these supernatural beings, and it’s easy to imagine it as a playground or meeting place for faeries. Here are a few elements and stories that contribute to the Glen’s enchantment:

• Faerie Circles: Throughout Scotland, faerie circles, usually rings of mushrooms or stones, are believed to be the dancing places of the fae. While more subtle in Fairy Glen, the natural circles and spirals found in the landscape evoke similar tales of faeries dancing in the moonlight, which are said to bring either good luck or dire consequences to those who dare disrupt them.
• The Faerie Castle: One of the most distinctive features of Fairy Glen is a small, conical hill that resembles a castle. It is actually a natural rock formation known as Castle Ewen. Visitors often climb to its summit, where they’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Glen’s enchanting surroundings. Folklore suggests that this “castle” could be the entrance to the faerie realm, a place where time moves differently and humans should tread lightly.
• The Balance Stone: Among the mystical features of Fairy Glen is a large boulder precariously balanced atop another rock. Local legend has it that this stone maintains the balance between our world and that of the faeries. Disturbing this stone could upset the harmony between the two realms, bringing misfortune to those responsible.

3. Cathedral Rock Vortex, Sedona, Arizona, USA

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Sedona is renowned for its vortex sites, and Cathedral Rock is among the most celebrated. This natural sandstone cathedral is not only a visual marvel but also a hotspot for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation and a connection to Earth’s energies.

A vortex, in Sedona’s context, is believed to be a special spot on the earth where energy is either entering into the earth or projecting out of the earth’s plane. Cathedral Rock’s vortex is of the latter type, known as an “upflow” vortex (also referred to as “masculine” or “electric”), which is said to facilitate prayer, meditation, and mind/body healing.

The magical allure of Cathedral Rock and its vortex is intertwined with both Native American heritage and New Age beliefs. The land around Sedona has been sacred to various Native American tribes for thousands of years.

• Doorway to the Divine: Some believe that Cathedral Rock serves as a portal to other dimensions or a doorway to higher realms of consciousness and spiritual worlds. This belief is partly inspired by the rock formation’s distinctive shape, which resembles a cathedral’s spire, pointing towards the sky and the divine.
• The Kachina Woman: One of the rock spires at Cathedral Rock is named “Kachina Woman,” and local lore suggests that this formation is a guardian spirit overseeing the area. The Kachina, in Native American beliefs, are spirit beings that influence the natural world and act as intermediaries between humans and the gods. The presence of the Kachina Woman adds a protective and nurturing aspect to the energy felt at Cathedral Rock.
• Healing and Transformation: Many visitors come to Cathedral Rock seeking personal healing or spiritual growth. Stories abound of profound personal transformations, healings, and epiphanies experienced in the presence of the vortex. Whether attributed to the placebo effect, the power of belief, or genuine earth energies, the effects are real to those who experience them.

4. The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, France

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Perched atop the island of Mont Saint-Michel, this medieval abbey is a marvel of medieval architecture, seemingly reaching towards the heavens. It stands as a symbol of human resilience and divine inspiration, wrapped in legends and history. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only an architectural feat but also a symbol of French national pride and spiritual wonder, with origins that are as mystical as its appearance.

The Archangel Michael: In 708 AD, the Archangel Michael appeared in a dream to Bishop Aubert of Avranches, commanding him to build a church on Mont Tombe. Aubert ignored the vision until Michael miraculously burned a hole in his skull as a sign. A sanctuary was established in honor of Michael, marking the sacred beginnings of Mont Saint-Michel.

The Tide Legends: Mont Saint-Michel’s dramatic tides are said to have originated when the Archangel Michael threw a piece of Normandy at the devil, creating the bay. These tides, which can encircle the mount swiftly, are believed to be celestial protections against invaders. The phenomenon is often described as tides that rush in as fast as a galloping horse.

The Dragon of Mont Saint-Michel: A dragon terrorizing the region around Mont Saint-Michel was vanquished by a local hero with the aid of the Archangel Michael. This victory over the dragon symbolizes the eternal battle between good and evil. Mont Saint-Michel stands as a testament to divine protection and power.

The Immortal Knight: A knight cursed for betraying his love is doomed to wander Mont Saint-Michel’s shores eternally. His ghostly figure is said to be visible on foggy nights, searching for redemption. This legend speaks to themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for forgiveness.

The Labyrinth of the Archangel: Legends whisper of an ancient, secret labyrinth within Mont Saint-Michel, protected by traps and riddles. Guarded by the Archangel Michael, only the pure of heart can navigate it to discover its hidden treasures. This labyrinth is rumored to protect sacred relics and knowledge.

5. Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto, Japan

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Fushimi Inari Shrine, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which trail through the woods of the sacred Mount Inari. It is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, sake, agriculture, and industry. Here are some myths and legends associated with this mesmerizing site:

The God Inari and White Foxes:

• Myths depict Inari as being served by white foxes, or kitsune, which are believed to possess the power to ward off evil.
• These foxes are often depicted holding keys in their mouths, symbolizing their role as protectors of granaries and keepers of the keys to the rice storehouse.

The Thousand Torii Gates:

• The torii gates, donated by individuals and businesses hoping to receive blessings, are said to form a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds.
• Walking through the torii path is considered a sacred pilgrimage, guiding devotees closer to the divine.

The Eternal Lanterns:

• The shrine houses thousands of lanterns that are lit during special festivals, believed to guide the spirits of the deceased.
• These lanterns symbolize the illumination of the path of life, guiding followers through darkness.

Divine Protection:

• Legends say that praying at Fushimi Inari Shrine offers protection from misfortune and ensures business prosperity.
• It’s a belief that the shrine’s sacred power extends beyond agriculture, blessing all endeavors.

6. Derinkuyu Underground City, Cappadocia, Turkey

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An ancient multi-level underground city that offers a glimpse into a subterranean world. Exploring its deep tunnels and caves, one can easily imagine the secretive lives of the people who sought refuge here centuries ago. This subterranean city, one of the largest and deepest of its kind, has been associated with various myths and legends throughout history:

• Pathway to the Underworld: Some local legends claim that Derinkuyu was a gateway to the underworld, offering a labyrinthine passage to the realms of the dead or mythical creatures.
• Hiding Place for Mythical Creatures: Folklore tells of mythical creatures that roamed the tunnels of Derinkuyu, protecting the city’s secrets and treasures.
• Magical Wards: There are legends of magical symbols carved into the walls that were believed to protect the city and its inhabitants from evil spirits and invaders.

7. The Hill of Tara, Ireland

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Once the ancient seat of power in Ireland, the Hill of Tara is an archaeological complex that dates back to the Iron Age. It is said to be an entrance to the otherworld, imbued with magic and the mystique of ancient kings and druids. It’s associated with gods, kings, and mystical events, making it a focal point of Irish heritage and lore:

• Stone of Destiny: The Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny) atop the hill, is said to roar when touched by the rightful king of Ireland.
• Druid’s Seat: Myths tell of druids performing ceremonies here, invoking the powers of the earth and sky to foresee the future and influence the fate of the kingdom.
• Gateway to the Otherworld: The hill is believed to be an entrance to the Otherworld, with several passages and mounds that lead to realms of gods and spirits.
• Magical Stone: Apart from crowning true kings, the Lia Fáil is also said to possess healing powers and the ability to rejuvenate the king’s reign.

8. Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra, Portugal

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This estate is a wonderland of gothic towers, mysterious grottoes, and enchanting wells. The Initiation Wells, in particular, are believed to be used for Masonic ceremonies, adding a layer of mystery to the lush gardens. It is shrouded in myths and legends, with connections to alchemy, Freemasonry, and the Knights Templar:

• Path to the Otherworld: Legends suggest that descending the wells symbolizes entering the underworld, with each step representing a deeper level of spiritual enlightenment.
• Secret Passages: Myths abound of hidden passages within the estate, leading to secret chambers used for rituals and ceremonies.
• Templar Symbols: The architecture and symbols scattered throughout the estate hint at a connection to the Knights Templar, suggesting it may have been a site for their secret meetings and rituals.
• A Magnum Opus: The design of Quinta da Regaleira is said to be rife with alchemical symbolism, representing the stages of alchemical transformation and the quest for the philosopher’s stone.
• The Garden of Eden: Some areas of the estate are thought to symbolize the Garden of Eden, with the initiation wells representing the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
• Sacred Geometry: The chapel’s architecture is believed to encode sacred geometry principles, aligning it with cosmic energies.

9. Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan

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Clinging to a cliffside in the Paro Valley, this iconic monastery is a site of pilgrimage and an emblem of Himalayan Buddhism. Its remote location and the spiritual journey to reach it make Tiger’s Nest a truly magical destination. It is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites and is entwined with a rich tapestry of myth and legend that underscores the deeply spiritual nature of Bhutanese culture:

• Meditation Cave: Guru Rinpoche then meditated in a cave here for three months, laying the foundations for Buddhism in Bhutan. The cave, considered a holy sanctum, is preserved within the monastery.
• Architectural Marvel: Myths surrounding its construction speak of angels carrying building materials to the cliffside and assembling the monastery with supernatural speed and precision.
• Miraculous Powers: The monastery is believed to be a place of healing and enlightenment, where many have found solace and spiritual awakening. Pilgrims believe that visiting Taktshang Goemba at least once in their lifetime will cleanse them of their sins.

10. The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

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A natural wonder steeped in myth and legend, the Giant’s Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. According to legend, it was built by giants, creating a bridge to Scotland. However, it’s the myths and legends surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site that imbue it with a magical quality, linking it to giants and legendary battles:

• Giant’s Footsteps: According to legend, the causeway was built by the Irish giant Finn McCool (Fionn mac Cumhaill) as stepping stones to Scotland to avoid getting his feet wet, and to confront the Scottish giant Benandonner.
• Magical Seat: The Wishing Chair, composed of perfectly arranged columns forming a natural seat, is believed to grant wishes to those who sit upon it, especially if they believe in the giant’s magic.

Each of these landmarks carries a unique energy and story, making them must-visit spots for those who love to immerse themselves in the magic of the world’s ancient places. Whether it’s through the lens of romance, fantasy, or the intersection of both, these sites promise an unforgettable adventure.

Published by HOLR Magazine.