Ever wondered what it would be like to visit a real-life Atlantis? Or to scan the murky depths of a lake for a larger-than-life monster? Turns out, you can. Whether you’re a mythology buff looking to summon Zeus atop Mt. Olympus or want to follow in the footsteps of Indiana Jones, these real-life destinations are chock-full of history, scenery, and ancient lore, making them worth a visit every chance you get. Just don’t forget to brush up on your ancient mythology before you go.
Mount Olympus, Greece
As the home of Zeus and other gods in Ancient Greek mythology, Mt Olympus has long been the armchair mythologist’s favorite destination. Although widely known for its storybook origins, the region is actually an ecologist’s paradise, playing host to more than 1,500 plant species and over 100 avian species.
The highest peak on Olympus (there are more than 50!) is Mytikas, reaching over 9,500 feet in altitude, making it a worldwide destination for hikers, backpackers, and die-hard fans of Greek mythology. Along with being one of Greece’s most beautiful wilderness areas, Mt. Olympus was named Greece’s first national park in 1938, and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.
Loch Ness, Scotland
A list of mythical places wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Loch Ness, a location steeped in campfire legend lore. Located in one of the most beautiful parts of the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness spans more than 20 miles and can reach depths of 750 feet. Its particularly murky water has long led to speculations about a dinosaur-like Loch Ness monster. While you might not catch a glimpse of this giant water horse, the stunning scenery and various hiking opportunities make the trip well worth your while.
Zealandia
Atlantis may be more renowned than Zealandia, but the lost eighth continent is far easier to visit – because it actually exists. As big as Greenland, Zealandia measures around 1.35 million square miles, but this natural wonder is not easily seen by casual tourists. Largely underwater, it consists of islands connected at the roots. The best way to explore Zealandia is via New Zealand and Norfolk Island, where you can experience some of the lushest, most unusual scenery in the world.
Cyclopean Isles, Italy
Just off the eastern coast of Sicily lies a towering row of rocks that hover over a jagged shore. While this destination may not be as sought after as other Mediterranean hotspots, the Cyclopean Isles’ mythical past may be enough to draw you in for an unforgettable visit.
Indeed, the very rocks that stand over the coastline are said to have been thrown by Polyphemus, the Cyclops, at the legendary Odysseus as he fled his captor in the famed tales passed down by Homer. While Polyphemus has likely found a new home, the Scogli dei Ciclopi near Catania remains an incredible summer getaway.
El Dorado, Colombia
Whether your interest in El Dorado stems from the successful DreamWorks movie or the actual history of the indigenous people of the Altiplano Cundiboyacense of Colombia, the myth of the “Golden Empire” remains a tantalizing story for any adventurer.
While the glittering empire of lore is an inflated myth rooted in Spanish quests for gold, history mentions that the nearby Lake Guatavita was the site of an ancient ritual where anointed leaders dropped jewels, gold, and other treasures into the waters as offerings to the gods. Today, Lake Guatavita is a stunning, often overlooked destination, tempting modern travelers just as it has explorers throughout history.
Troy, Turkey
Of all the Greek myths, the legend of the rise and fall of Troy has gained remarkable popularity in media, from oral histories to modern films. While the actual occurrence of the Trojan War remains debated among archaeologists and historians, it is widely believed that the city mentioned in Homer’s epic poem is the ancient city on the northwest coast of Turkey. If you’re a history buff or simply wish to glimpse Achilles’ supposed resting place, the ruins of Troy in Canakkale are certainly worth a visit, alongside the coastline and the life-size replica of the Trojan horse the city presents.
Kirinyaga, Kenya
The second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, holds sacred significance to numerous tribes including the Kikuyu, Embu, Ameru, and Maasai. The Kikuyu people believe it is the place where the god Ngai revealed the land to the first man, Gikuyu, and first woman, Mumbi. From his throne at the summit, Ngai watched as Gikuyu and Mumbi had nine daughters, populating what is today Kenya.
Today, Kirinyaga lives on not only in folklore but also as Mt. Kenya National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can view this former stratovolcano from the base or attempt to summit its glaciated 17,057-foot (5,199 meter) peak. If you aren’t a skilled mountaineer, skip the crampons and ice axes and instead trek to Point Lenana, which is an achievement in itself.
Cornwall, England
If you grew up reading any of the iconic stories about King Arthur and the Sword in the Stone, or even Monty Python and the Holy Grail, then Cornwall should be at the top of your list of European destinations with a mythologic pedigree. Not only is Cornwall the historical setting of the once and future king, this coastal destination boasts some of England’s best coastline. Between the stark, rocky cliffs that dot its shores and the world-famous surfing spots along tucked-in beaches, Cornwall upholds its fairytale reputation.
Takachiho, Japan
Japan is a land rich with local stories and a sense of magic, and one of the best-known mythological places in Nippon is a cave near Takachiho. The Shinto shrine Ama-No-Iwato-Jinja honors the sun goddess Amaterasu, who hid away in the cave after one of her brother’s (Susanoo, the storm god) rages. Many gods and goddesses attempted to lure her out of the cavern known as Ama-no-Yasukawara, eventually succeeding by creating a joyful atmosphere that Amaterasu didn’t want to miss out on.
Sherwood Forest, England
Robin Hood has been a beloved folk hero since the Late Middle Ages, and Sherwood Forest, where he lived with his band of merry men, is just as legendary. The forest continues to attract plenty of tourist traffic, thanks to its rich lore and engaging festivals. The original Sherwood Forest in England hosts Robin Hood festivals, showcasing actors portraying some of history’s most cunning antiheroes.
If you can’t journey to Nottinghamshire, the popular English forest has a distant cousin named Sherwood in Oregon. Although not the original setting for Robin Hood and his crew, it works diligently to maintain the mythical reputation of its English counterpart and also offers a variety of attractions, including spectacular wine experiences. Each year, Sherwood, Oregon hosts an annual Robin Hood festival in mid-July, featuring traditional garb, food, and fun activities for kids of all ages.
This article was first published Feb 21, 2011 and updated Mar 5, 2020.
