7 Star Wars “Must-See” Locations
Every year on May 4th (…be with you), Star Wars fans are reminded of a galaxy far, far away…well, not that far really! Although these movies have plenty of special effects, not everything is CGI, especially when it comes to the beautiful locations used as movie sets, and you can actually visit most of them. So get ready to travel the galaxy (or around the world) with our 7 “must-see” Star Wars destinations!
1. Redwood National Park, USA
Return of the Jedi (2017)
These impressive towering trees make up the setting for the planet Endor, home to the cute little Ewoks and the scene of the final battle in Return of the Jedi. On planet Earth, you’ll find these terrifying giants in Northern California, USA, in Redwood National Park, and you can enjoy classic outdoor activities like hiking or camping in a truly unique setting. Some of these trees are over 90 meters tall!
2. Skellig Michael, Ireland
The Force Awakens (2015)
This Irish island saw the young King meet legendary Jedi Master Luke Skywalker, in the seventh installment of The Force Awakens saga. But if you too want to climb the rocky steps of Skellig Michael and try to find some porgs, you’ll need to book your ticket well in advance… This World Heritage site has become quite a famous destination ever since the movies came along. out, receiving almost 200 visitors every day!
3. Laamu Atoll, Maldives
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
This celestial destination located in the Maldives portrays the planet Scarif, the scene of an epic battle pitting Rebel forces against Empire in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Most of the scenes were shot on location, on Gan to be precise, one of the largest islands in the Laamu Atoll. While you probably won’t see stormtroopers there, you can still enjoy the white-sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, and its fantastic marine ecosystem, carefully preserved by local initiatives.
4. Phang Nga Bay, Thailand
Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Chewbacca’s world, the planet Kashyyyk, home of the great Wookiees! This is where Master Yoda led the Republic forces against the Separatists in Revenge of the Sith, while executing the terrifying Order 66… Located in Thailand, Phang Nga Bay is truly an airborne destination. unique free, with activities ranging from peaceful sailing to nature. cave exploration, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous.
5. Tikal, Guatemala
A New Hope (1977)
This World Heritage site located deep in the Guatemalan rainforest is home to the headquarters of the Rebellion on the moon Yavin 4, which first appears in A New Hope. In the movie, this is where the attack on the Death Star was coordinated, leading to a major victory against the Empire. This archaeological site is actually home to huge Mayan ruins, believed to have been inhabited since around the 10th century AD. C., and offers quite an exotic hiking destination for experienced backpackers.
6. Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, Italy
Attack of the Clones (2002)
This iconic Italian villa was the setting for the lakeside retreat in Attack of the Clones, where Anakin and Padmé fell in love and later married. Many real-life marriages take place at the beautiful Villa del Balbianello, which after a fascinating history involving an Italian cardinal, politicians and artists, is now in the National Trust of Italy. Although it has undergone many renovations over the years, its enchanting gardens and panoramic view over Lake Como remain unchanged, and always so magical…
7. Mount Etna, Italy
Revenge of the Sith (2005)
This latter entry does not appear in the films, as no scenes were filmed on location, but the volcano conveniently did erupt during production. So George Lucas sent a team to capture the lava bursts, and these shots were actually used as the background for the epic duel between Anakin and Obi-Wan on the volcanic planet Mustafar at the end of Revenge of the Sith! Combined with a beautiful score by John Williams, the intensity of the scene could not be greater.
