Middle-Earth: An explorer's Guide

Why Middle-earth ?

Nestled between the Great Sea to the east and  the vast plains of Ruhn to the west, and stretching from the warm lands in the south of Gondor Desert to icy Forochel in the north, this amazing land is ready to open its secrets to adventurers and travelers prepared to push into the lesser-known quarters: to the lava fields of Mordor national park where danger still lurks around every corner, to the wild beauty of Mirkwood natural reserve. Along the journey you will meet many amazing people, fight orcs and monsters, discover majestic landscapes,  and taste the unique flavors of Middle-earth. 

Suggested itinerary:

Start in Bree, in the historic West Town neighborhood where shops and markets sell local produce and crafts, and musician play at every corner for your delight. A must-try is Butterbur Mushroom Soup, served with homemade bread and a lash of hot tomato salsa - sample it at the Prancing Pony Inn in Bree central square. The Inn also offers rooms with breakfast and dinner included in the price( beds from 9 silvers )
 

The spa resort of Rivendell , and the sky resort of the Misty Mountains ( snowy all year round ) can be reached in about two weeks by horse. Trekking opportunities begins from The Last Homely House nestled up against the stunning backdrop of the Valley of Imladris. From here, travel north on horseback to Gloin's Camp. Nearby Hrimbarg is accessible by horse but you'll need to join a tour ( arranged locally ) to journey into the local caves of Goblin's Town. The night sky  in the Misty Mountains are spectacular and local dwarves offer star-gazing tours. Hrimbarg is a sociable base for exploration ( beds from 15 silvers ).

Break up your adventures with a stop in the beautiful, fertile Rivendell. Base yourself in The Last Homely House, where it it's possible to get involved in activities such as Elven meditation, dance and singing lessons, and relaxing spa treatments - and also savor the incredible cocktails - made from grapes in the surrounding vineyards - mixed with fresh berries. 

Retrace your steps back to Bree, and pick up a connecting horse to Hobbiton, via the Great Road. Hobbiton is the starting point for adventures in the Four Farthings of the Shire. Rich in tradition and hobbit culture, green rolling hills, lakes , rivers and forests, the landscape of the Shire offers trekking and adventure walks. This time of the year is an especially beautiful time to travel, when autumn leaves transform the landscape in an explosion of colors, waiting for the first flurries of snow to arrive. 

Food and Drink 

Don't forget to taste the local cousine - a must-try are the dumplings filled with minced mushrooms and herbs. Also try the cheese bread, and the amazing local wines in the Shire and Rivendell.

Need to know 

Learn some basic Sindarin - it's a tough language but Elves will appreciate the effort. Stay away from drunken Dwarves - they will often strip naked and jump in fountains after a long stop in an inn. Never ask a Hobbit how tall they are if you are in a hurry. 

Accommodation 

There is a huge range of option in Bree and all mayor town and villages. From rooms to traditional hobbit burrows, from inns to welcoming guesthouses. Outside town the budget option is for farmstays and campsites. 

Don't forget that there are many more itineraries and adventures to be had in Middle-earth. From the dark underground Dwarven kingdoms of Moria and Erebor, to the vast and open plains of Rohan, from the majestic beauty of Gondor, to the darkness of Mordor and much much more. Become an explorer and walk in the steps of legends in a land like no other. 

Middle-earth, a place that will forever keep you under its spell

Article by Amorey - Laurelin Archives Webteam