With Star Wars: The Force Awakens set to open next week at theatres across the globe, several tour companies have created travel packages to locations where the much anticipated film was shot. Here’s a sample of what’s available, should the Force, and some extra cash, awaken within you.
Skellig Michael (Ireland)
Also known as Sceilig Mhichíl, the island was used for three days of filming and acted as the desolate location where, rumour has it, Luke Skywalker has been holed up. From its stunning scenery and moody, storm-lashed shores, the Force is definitely strong here. Trafalger.com.
Endor (Puzzlewood, England)
Nestled between the Wye Valley, the Vale of Leadon and the Severn Valley, England’s Royal Forest of Dean is located outside the town of Gloucestershire. Its relative isolation created by the valleys of two great tidal rivers, together with its hilly terrain make for a great backdrop in Star Wars. It’s rumoured the area called Puzzlewood in the ancient woods doubled as the forested moon of Endor, home of the Ewoks. Trafalgar.com.
Geonosis and Adarlon (Scotland)
Possessing stunning scenery perfect for replicating the rock formations of mountainous planets, Scotland’s beautiful Isle of Skye is a Jedi’s paradise. This is the first time in Star Wars’ history scenes have been filmed in Scotland. Contiki.com.
Tatooine (Abu Dhabi)
While the desert world of Tatooine was traditionally filmed in southern Tunisia, the latest installment was shot on the sands of Abu Dhabi. Insightvacations.com.
Sullust (Myvatn, Iceland)
Scenes from the new installment were reportedly filmed here, which is not surprising given the region’s eerie resemblance to the volcanic world of Sullust. The region was created by a large basaltic lava eruption some 2,300 years ago, and the surrounding landscape is dominated by volcanic landforms, including lava pillars and rootless vents. Insightvacations.com.
A little closer to home, but in an area just as rugged as Scotland, is Squamish and the Sea to Sky Gondola, which has special Christmas programs running now through the end of December. The Spirit of Christmas series allows visitors to explore the beauty of Squamish by walking, snowshoeing, tubing and back-country skiing. For those more comfortable indoors, the Summit Lodge is the place to be for coffee or hot chocolate and stories by the fire. Enjoy a traditional fondue dinner Dec. 11, 12 and 27 and a classic choral Christmas Dec. 12. A holiday concert takes place Dec. 13. For a complete schedule of events and times visit seatoskygondola.com.
@sthomas10
