J.R.R. Tolkien once said, ‘Not all those who wander are lost.’ And after visiting Hobbiton in Matamata, NZ, I can confidently say that those who wander there are transported to a magical world beyond their imagination.
As a travel blogger, I have had the privilege of exploring some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, New Zealand, and it has quickly become one of my favorite places. The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit location for movie lovers and anyone who appreciates the magical world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. In this article, I will be providing a comprehensive guide to the Hobbiton Movie Set and giving my honest review of the different tours and activities available to visitors. Join me as we embark on a journey to Middle-earth and explore the incredible world of Hobbiton.
Getting to Hobbiton Movie Set
When planning my visit to Hobbiton, I knew that getting there would involve a bit of travel. Matamata is a small town located about two hours south of Auckland, so it’s definitely not a day trip from the city. I opted to rent a car and drive down, which allowed me to take in the stunning New Zealand countryside along the way.
Driving in New Zealand can be a bit intimidating at first, as they drive on the left side of the road instead of the right like we do in America. However, I found that as long as I paid close attention and followed the road signs carefully, it was fairly easy to get around.
For those who don’t want to rent a car, there are also tour buses that make the trip from Auckland to Matamata. These tours typically include a stop at Hobbiton as well as other nearby attractions, so they can be a great option if you’re looking to make a day of it.
One travel tip that I would highly recommend is booking your tour tickets in advance. Hobbiton is a very popular destination, and tours often sell out quickly. By booking ahead of time, you can ensure that you get the tour and time slot that you want. Plus, you’ll save yourself the hassle of trying to buy tickets on the day of your visit.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
As someone who has been fortunate enough to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, New Zealand, I can tell you that the tour is an absolute must-see for any Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan. Walking through the lush green hills and past the colorful hobbit holes truly feels like stepping into another world.
There are a few different tour options available, depending on your preferences and budget. I opted for the standard two-hour guided tour, which takes you through the main parts of the movie set and allows plenty of time for photos and questions. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
One of the highlights of the tour, for me, was seeing Bilbo’s house (Bag End) up close. It’s even more charming and intricate in person than it appears on screen. I also loved learning about the behind-the-scenes details of how the set was created and maintained for the films.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, there are also longer tours available that include a meal at the Green Dragon Inn or even a full Hobbiton Banquet Tour. These can be more expensive, but could be worth it for die-hard fans or those looking for a unique dining experience.
Overall, I highly recommend taking the time to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set if you’re ever in New Zealand. It’s a truly magical experience that you’ll remember for years to come.
Additional Activities at Hobbiton
As a travel blogger who visited the Hobbiton Movie Set, I can attest that there are more things to do than just the regular tours. One of the most unique experiences I had was attending the Hobbiton Banquet Tour. It was a feast fit for a hobbit, with a long table set up in the middle of the lush green fields and a variety of delicious food and drinks served. I felt like I was part of Bilbo Baggins’ birthday party!
If you’re looking for something more magical, I highly recommend the evening tours. As the sun sets, the movie set transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland with lanterns illuminating the paths and hobbit holes. The tour guide even shares behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the films. It was truly an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, there are also private tours available for those who want a more personalized and intimate experience. You can have a guide all to yourself and take your time exploring the set and taking photos. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want to make the most out of their visit.
In conclusion, the Hobbiton Movie Set offers more than just tours. The different activities available cater to different interests and preferences, making it a must-visit destination for any Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit fan.
Hobbiton Banquet Tours
As a lover of all things Middle-earth, I knew that the Hobbiton Banquet Tour was a must-do activity during my visit to New Zealand. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The tour begins with a scenic drive through the lush countryside before arriving at the Shire, where a guide takes you on a tour of the movie set. The attention to detail is incredible, and you truly feel like you’re stepping into another world.
After the tour, it’s time for the real highlight of the experience: the banquet. The tables are set with delicious food, and the atmosphere is simply magical. The best part? The unlimited ale that flows freely throughout the night. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the world of hobbits and forget about the outside world for a while.
My only tip for booking and planning the tour is to do it well in advance. The banquet tours are incredibly popular, and tickets can sell out fast. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this unforgettable experience.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Hobbiton Banquet Tour to anyone who loves The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit. It’s a truly magical experience that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Evening Tours
When I visited the Hobbiton Movie Set, I made sure to book an evening tour in addition to the regular tour. There were two evening tour options – the evening banquet tour and the evening tour without the banquet.
I opted for the evening tour without the banquet because I wanted to see the beautiful Hobbiton under the stars. It was truly magical to see the cozy Hobbit holes illuminated and the Green Dragon Inn lit up at night. The tour guide was just as knowledgeable and entertaining as during the day tour, but the atmosphere was completely different.
One thing to note is that the evening tours can get quite chilly, even in the summer months. Make sure to bring layers and a jacket to stay warm. It’s worth it for the experience, though.
If you do choose to do the banquet tour, I’ve heard great things about it from other visitors. The banquet takes place in a private dining room in the Green Dragon Inn and features a delicious feast fit for hobbits. Guests are also given a special souvenir to take home.
Overall, I highly recommend booking an evening tour in addition to the day tour. It’s a completely different experience and one that you won’t forget. Just don’t forget to bundle up!