Oh, Hello Cullen...
Twilight mania is sweeping the nation once again with the release of the highly anticipated third film in the Twilight saga, Eclipse. Chronicling the adventures of Bella Swan and the love triangle between vampire Edward Cullen and werewolf Jacob Black, the saga has divided ladies across the world on whether they’re ‘Team Edward’ or ‘Team Jacob’.
To celebrate the release of Twilight Eclipse, Hotels.com has put together the ultimate guide to Vampire and Werewolf cities around the world where you might find your very own Jacob or Edward.
FORKS, WASHINGTON
Forks was chosen by author Stephanie Meyer as the main setting for her books as, being one of the rainiest and most overcast places in the US, it makes for ideal vampire living conditions. In spite of the rain, however, it is now one of the hottest new tourist destinations for mere mortals.
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Housed in a 1916 farmhouse, the three-star Miller Tree Innis an ideal base from which to explore the main characters’ - Bella Swan and Edward Cullen - hometown, Forks, and the neighbouring town of La Push, home to the Quileute werewolves in the books and film, as well as the nearby Olympic Peninsula. The hotel features a whirlpool tub in many of the rooms, and maintains a traditional, cosy feel with fireplaces throughout.
TRANSYLVANIA, ROMANIA
Home to the world’s most famous vampire, Count Dracula, Transylvania is a city steeped in ancient myths and legends. The region is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains which are home to Europe’s largest population of wolves, brown bears and lynxes. No trip to Transylvania would be complete without a visit to Bran Castle known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. The castle is now a museum and guided tours are available.
Named after Transylvania’s most famous inhabitant, the House of Dracula boasts a wide range of facilities including two restaurants, a terrace and a modern spa with sauna, fitness centre and massages. Nearby tourist attractions include the Gothic Biserica Neagră (The Black Church) and Dracula's Bran Castle.
AUVERGNE, FRANCE
The Beast of Gévaudan was a wolf-like monster that reportedly prowled the Auvergne and South Dordogne areas of France in the 18th century. The creature which resided in the Margeride Mountains is believed to have killed over 100 people but his true identity was never revealed. However, according to ancient folklore, many believe he was a werewolf.
The Mercure Clermont-Ferrand is the ideal location from which to explore the Auvergne region and visit nearby towns where the alleged werewolf prowled. After a busy day exploring, guests can relax in the hotel bar or grab a snack in the restaurant.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Even though the neighbouring region of Transylvania is a few hundred miles away, the legacy of vampires is still strong in the city of Budapest at the prestigious Magyar Színház Theatre. Roman Polanski’s highly-successful movie screenplay “The Fearless Vampire Killers” has been adapted into a theatre show entitled “Dance of the Vampires.” Set in gloomy Transylvania; follow the fearless vampire hunter, Professor Abronsius and his young assistant, Alfred in their exciting and humorous adventure as they battle Count von Krolock.
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If you want a luxury Vampire experience stay at The Soho Boutique Hotel in the city centre, which pays tribute to this musical with its two ‘Vampire suites’ inspired by the show. Ideally located for sightseeing, the hotel is close to Ferenc Liszt Square, the Hungarian State Opera House and the Hungarian National Museum.
DENBIGH, NORTH WALES
Records of an enormous wolf-like animal in North Wales date back to 1790, when a stagecoach travelling between Denbigh and Wrexham was attacked and overturned by an enormous black beast almost as long as the coach horses. The attack took place just after dusk, with a full moon on the horizon. The moon that month seemed blood red, which the locals thought was a sign that something evil was at large and the superstitious phrase, "bad moon on the rise" was whispered in travellers' inns across the region.
Stay at a safe distance from potential harm at The Orielin the nearby village of St Asaph. This hotel features a gym, swimming pool and spa. Its restaurant is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the area and has been awarded an AA Rosette.