The Witcher Filming Locations
In a search for a new ride through the world of fantasy, many of us instantly fell for The Witcher. Based on the books by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, the new Netflix series is full of mutants, elves, witches and other Tolkienesque features. But the legend of Geralt of Rivia is not new, as many discovered it through the successful video game developed years ago.
Now that the second season is here, how about a tour of the filming locations that embodied this medieval world? Find inspiration and start planning your new journey!
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The Witcher Filming Locations Season 1
The filming of The Witcher Season 1 started back in 2019, right before the world literally stopped. Therefore, The Witcher Season 1 was filmed under “old normal” terms. Various locations were used as a filming set, so here is the list of The Witcher filming locations from season 1.
Rabsztyn, Poland
Since the birthplace of the story is Poland, no wonder directors used it as a filming set. More precisely, Ogrodzieniec Castle depicted a location for the Battle of Sodden, shown in the season finale. The castle is located in Rabsztyn, a small village about 60 km from Krakow. The castle was originally built between the 14th and 15th century on the Castle Mountain in the Polish Jurassic Highland. Of course, what is a medieval castle without a legend? The legend has it that the castle is haunted by the “Black Dog of Ogrodzieniec”. The apparition is actually a ghost of Stanisław Warszycki, the Castellan of Krakow. The castle ruins are open for visitors.
Budapest, Hungary
The directors used the capital city of Hungary as a primary location for all the interiors in the series. That is also where the main filming studio was located, where also Dune was filmed. The most recognizable landmark in the series is Vajdahunyad Castle. It is the replica of the castle in Transylvania, located in the City Park of Budapest. The directors used a castle as a wizard Stregobor’s courtyard of the house. The castle is unique as it combines several different architectural styles. It appears as Gothic structure from one side and as a Renaissance one from the other. However, Vajdahunyad Castle is a ‘must-see’ if visiting Budapest as it is located near the city centre. Soak up the atmosphere and recall the tales of Dracula. Several other sights in Budapest and nearby areas were used including Kiscelli Museum, Szentendre Skanzen Village Museum, Replica Castle of Eger, Tata Castle and the forest of Gyarmatpuszta.
The Canary Islands, Spain
One of the main filming locations was also the Canary Islands where the directors used various landscapes. The main site Aretuza, the magic academy is also located here. Sadly, the fortress itself doesn’t actually exist in the real world, but only as a CGI. The main location was La Palma where the crew filmed most of the scenes. Among the sites used are Los Tilos waterfall, peaks of the Roque de Los Muchachos and cultural park La Zarza. Other scenes were taken on Gran Canaria and La Gomera. The Canary Islands was already on the big screen in Moby Dick, Operation Ganymed, The Haunting and many more.
Leobendorf, Austria
The scene in which Geralt of Rivia fights Striga was taken in Kreuzenstein Castle located in Leobendorf, about 25 km north of Vienna. Certain parts of the castle still date back to the 12th century, but it was actually rebuilt in the 19th century. There are several tours per day that will introduce you with the weapon collection. In case you get hungry, Burgtaverne Kreuzenstein offers dishes with recipes dating back to the Middle Ages that will contribute to the overall medieval atmosphere. Visiting Kreuzenstein Castle can be an ideal option for a day trip from Vienna.
The Witcher Filming Locations Season 2
The filming of The Witcher Season 2 started during the most challenging period for the film industry. The corona pandemic literally stopped the world and the traveling industry was brought to its knees.
Despite the challenges, The Witcher filming crew decided not to give up on making another sensational season which was eagerly awaited.
Due to COVID-19, The Witcher Season 2 was filmed entirely in the UK. Also, most of the scenes were filmed in Arborfield Studios, south of Reading, about 40 miles from London. However, there are some interesting locations that you may not know about, so here is a list of The Witcher filming locations in season 2.
North Yorkshire
Yorkshire already established itself as a popular filming location in the UK. This time, North Yorkshire served as an inspiring area for the outside locations. One of them is Fountains Abbey which served for a few scenes throughout the filming period. The locations perfectly contributed to the medieval setting. The other significant place was Gordale Scar, a limestone ravine with waterfalls and cliffs close to Malham.
Lake District National Park
The area of Lake District National Park was used to shoot several scenes as well. One of the interesting locations is Hodge Close Quarry, a massive excavation of colored slate. Although many find the place attractive for diving, it is not recommended as it can be very dangerous.
For continental locations was used Blea Tarn, a small lake in Little Langdale. The tarn was shaped by glacial ice moving and the Langdale Pikes can be seen across the tarn. All in all, the area served perfectly for the fantasy landscape.
Bourne Wood, Chichester
The impressive Bourne Wood near Farnham is a popular filming location in the UK since 1999, so no wonder The Witcher crew used it for its purposes. Besides the endless forest and the relaxed atmosphere, there are various events held in this area.
Nearby Bourne Wood is one more picturesque location. Namely, Frensham Great Pond is a popular place for outdoor activities and relaxation. Especially as it is known for the often nice weather.
The Witcher Filming Locations Season 3
After two years since the second season of The Witcher, Season 3 is finally on Netflix. Well, almost. The long-awaited sequence consists of two parts, the first containing five episodes released on June 29, 2023. Now, fans are waiting for the second part, which will start streaming on Netflix from Thursday, July 27, 2023. Namely, filming for The Witcher Season 3 was announced in March 2022, with a photo from the film set at Laghi di Fusine in Italy. In the following months, the production moved to England, Wales, Slovenia, and Croatia. So, let’s look at the enchanting places from The Witcher Season 3!
Epping Forest, England
We are kicking off with the enchanting Epping Forest in southeastern England, on the outskirts of London. When we said enchanting, we meant it. The forest looks like a magical place with its lush green branches and dim light. One of the highlights of Epping Forest is its rich cultural and historical heritage. It has been a protected area since the 19th century, making it one of the oldest and largest public open spaces near London.
The forest holds significance as a remnant of the ancient woodland that once covered much of England. Interestingly, it has been in several films and television productions due to its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Additionally, Epping Forest is a great place for outdoor recreational activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and birdwatching. The forest has designated areas for picnicking and barbecues, ideal for families.
Guildford Cathedral, England
Following our list is the Guildford Cathedral in Surrey. However, that is not the only name it goes by. Locals have nicknamed the Cathedral People’s Cathedral due to its unique history. Namely, the building started in 1936 but abruptly stopped because of World War II. After the war, there was limited funding and a shortage of materials. But, the locals were determined to finish the Cathedral. As a result, a Buy a Brick campaign was started, which continued the building process.
What is truly astonishing is that more than 200 000 people became “brick-givers.” This majestic Cathedral is a symbol of community resilience and determination. Its interior is equally majestic, boasting high-pitched concrete arches and rib vaulting, combining the expressiveness of modernism and gothic ethereal sublime. So, it is not a surprise producers chose it for filming The Witcher.
Jolly Farm, England
Jolly Farm is a charming countryside destination in the idyllic county of Hampshire. The farm was first established in the 18th century as a working farm, providing agricultural products to the local community. Over time, it evolved, embracing its newfound role in the entertainment industry. Thus, Jolly Farm became a filming location for several beloved shows, series, and films.
One of the most popular activities here includes nature walks, guided tours, and picnicking. Moreover, Jolly Farm is conveniently near several notable attractions. Nearby, you’ll find the historic market town of Winchester, famous for its magnificent cathedral and medieval architecture. The South Downs National Park is also within reach.
Virginia Water Lake, England
Virginia Water Lake finds itself on the border of Berkshire and Surrey. It was a prime filming location for night shoots during The Witcher Season 3. This picturesque spot boasts the stunning Cascade waterfalls and the captivating Leptis Magna Ruins, making it a perfect backdrop for the show’s 13th-century setting.
In addition to The Witcher, Virginia Water Lake served as a filming location for “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” adding to its magical allure. Aside from its significance in the entertainment industry, the lake offers a range of activities for you to enjoy. One is visiting the astonishing Valley Gardens, which feature exotic plantings and ornamental sculptures.
Nash Point Lighthouse, Wales
Traveling west of England, let’s visit our next Witcher filming location in Wales. Nash Point Lighthouse, situated in South Wales, is perched on the rugged coastline of the Vale of Glamorgan. Additionally, Nash Point Lighthouse is part of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast due to its striking appearance and historical significance.
In The Witcher Season 3, Nash Point Lighthouse depicts a port where Geralt and Ciri venture before embarking on a ship to confront an enemy. To reach Nash Point Lighthouse, you can take advantage of the nearby parking facilities and enjoy a scenic walk along the coastal path. The lighthouse itself is sadly not open for public access.
Three Cliffs Bay in Swansea, Wales
As you probably noticed, most of the filming is in England and Wales. So, let us introduce you to the last of The Witcher filming locations in the UK so far- the majestic Three Cliffs Bay. During the filming of The Witcher Season 3, the bay was transformed into a Thanedd Island, a home for Aretuza Academy. With its dramatic cliffs and vast dunes, Three Cliffs Bay was a perfect film set.
The Three Cliffs Bay derives its name from the prominent limestone cliffs that dominate its landscape, rising majestically from the sandy shoreline. These towering cliffs, known as Three Cliffs, earned a reputation as one of Wales’ most picturesque and iconic locations. One activity you cannot miss here is camping! Even if you are new to such outdoor activities, this is a perfect beginning point, as the bay has multiple campsites.
Zala Stara Baška Beach, Croatia
And we found ourselves in the stunning Croatia, a place famous for being in multiple films and tv shows, such as Game of Thrones, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and Robin Hood. It was only a matter of time before the producers noticed the country’s potential, and soon enough, they found a perfect backdrop for The Witcher Season 3.
The filming took place at Beach Zala in Stara Baska, a charming village on Krk in Croatia. The producers filmed a scene where the trio takes refuge in a lake house. While here, do not miss a chance to glimpse into century-old Croatian history by visiting Bascanska Ploca. This significant artifact showcases the unique Glagolitic script, an ancient Slavic alphabet.
Laghi di Fusine, Italy
Nestled in the glacial region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy, Laghi di Fusine is a breathtaking and scenic corner of the world. This otherworldly place dates back thousands of years, with its formation occurring approximately 2.6 million years ago and ending around 11,700 years ago. As briefly mentioned before, the filming of The Witcher Season 3 started and was announced at this magical place.
A photo of Anya Chalotra, Freya Allan, and Henry Cavill sitting on a director’s chair overlooking the frozen lake and the snow-covered forest started circulating the Internet in March. And fans were thrilled. This frozen lake region served as the setting for one of the many places where Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri sought refuge.
Predjama Castle, Slovenia
We are finishing our list with the enchanting castle in Slovenia, the Predjama Castle. Predjama Castle is a magnificent and historically significant fortress from the 13th century, perched dramatically within the mouth of a cave. Its unique location provided a strategic defensive position and offered refuge to its inhabitants during times of conflict.
The castle had numerous renovations and expansions throughout its history, resulting in a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Because of this, the producers most likely used it as the Vuilpanne Castle in The Witcher Season 3. Luckily, the castle is open for visits. We recommend exploring the castle’s labyrinthine chambers, including a medieval chapel, armory, and living quarters.
