The Shire might just be the most beautiful and peaceful place in all of literature. The filming location in New Zealand that stood in for this tranquil parcel of Middle-earth is also gorgeous. It’s been open to tourists for years but now, for the first time ever, you can spend the night in Hobbiton. Three lucky people will be able to book the experience through Airbnb. For only 10 New Zealand dollars (about $6 US) per night, you get a two bedroom house in the Shire. Bring your three favorite friends and family members or some friendly cousins (once removed) and your gardener! The two-night stays, which will take place in March 2023, go on sale December 14, 2022 at 10am New Zealand time.
The property began as a sheep farm in Waikato, New Zealand. It is offering up this unique experience to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the first Hobbit film. Guests will have access to a writing desk if they want to record their own adventures and a book nook if they’d rather curl up with a good long trilogy. The nearby Green Dragon Inn pours real Southfarthing beer and cider. Just remember that it doesn’t come in pints. There’s also many hearty meals since Hobbits love to eat. The decor is all curated by Brian Massey, who worked on both the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies.
Airbnb has offered other once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including stays at the Sanderson sisters’ cottage in Massachusetts and the Mystery Machine van in Malibu. If you’re not one of the lucky few to book this Hobbiton visit, there are other fan recreations of the Shire to check out. Or if you believe that it’s a dangerous business going out your door, stay home instead and watch ambient videos of The Shire and other peaceful Middle-earth locales on YouTube.
Melissa is Nerdist’s science & technology staff writer. She also moderates “science of” panels at conventions and co-hosts Star Warsologies, a podcast about science and Star Wars. Follow her on Twitter @melissatruth.
