Getting Spooked: A Hilarious Journey Through the World’s Most Legendary Folklore Destinations

Are you tired of regular vacations where nothing goes bump in the night? Say goodbye to beach resorts and hello to haunted forests, mischievous fairies, and trolls who just might steal your hiking boots. If you’re ready to dive into some serious spookiness, follow me on a journey to the world’s strangest and most legendary folklore spots—where the only thing scarier than the legends is the fact that locals really believe them. Pack your sense of humor (and maybe some garlic), and let’s dive in!

1. The Fairy Forts of Ireland: Don’t Mess with the Fairies

Legend: Fairy forts, or ráth and lios, are scattered across Ireland like ancient whispers from another time, hidden in plain sight as circles of trees or gentle grassy mounds. Though they may appear as simple features of the landscape, these remnants of Celtic life are imbued with mystery, history, and supernatural lore that has survived for centuries. Built between 500 BCE and 1000 CE, these forts were once fortified homesteads where early Irish families lived, protected their livestock, and gathered together.

Imagine approaching a fairy fort centuries ago: a large circular enclosure, often 15 to 30 meters wide, sometimes surrounded by multiple rings of earthen banks and ditches. Many forts were set on hilltops or other high ground, perfect for watching over the landscape. Inside the ring, you might find roundhouses built of wood or stone, small storage pits for food, and traces of walls that held off wild animals and rival clans. Some of the larger forts, with multiple concentric banks, could have served as gathering places where entire communities came together for ceremonies, feasts, or councils. Today, archaeologists still find bits of pottery, tools, and bones in these forts, fragments of a long-lost everyday life.

But as the centuries rolled on, these forts were abandoned, slowly overtaken by nature and given a new purpose in Irish folklore: they became the realms of the Aos Sí, the fairy folk. The Aos Sí are no gentle sprites; they’re said to fiercely guard their homes, warding off anyone foolish enough to trespass. Cutting down a tree, moving a stone, or even building too close to a fairy fort is seen as an open invitation for trouble—a curse, a bout of illness, or a streak of bad luck that just won’t quit. Folklore is rich with tales of people who dared to disturb a fairy fort and suffered for it, losing livestock, facing mysterious accidents, or falling inexplicably ill.

The fairies’ methods of protection are as eerie as they are imaginative. Wander too close to a fairy fort after dark, and you might see flickering lights inside the ring or hear ghostly music and laughter, as if the fairies are hosting a party just beyond your sight. These sounds are both a warning and an invitation—but woe to those who follow. People who get too close are said to experience a “fairy wind,” a chilling gust that feels almost alive, forcefully pushing them away. Others have reported being “fairy-led,” finding themselves disoriented and unable to leave, wandering in circles or losing hours of time before stumbling free.

Some stories tell of more frightening encounters. The fairies, appearing as shadows or even small animals with an unsettling awareness, are said to watch intruders, trailing them just out of sight. For those who’ve dared to destroy part of a fort, poltergeist-like hauntings are not uncommon: mysterious noises, objects shifting in the night, or sudden drafts creeping through closed windows. These events are seen as the Aos Sí’s revenge, an unsettling reminder that some disturbances are never forgiven.

Even now, the fear of disturbing a fairy fort runs deep in Irish culture. Many avoid these places entirely, leaving small offerings of milk, bread, or coins to keep the fairies appeased. Roads, fences, and even modern developments have been rerouted to avoid disrupting these ancient sites, reflecting a quiet reverence that keeps alive a centuries-old respect for the unseen world. To this day, Irish wisdom suggests it’s best to tread carefully around these enchanted places—because some mysteries are simply too powerful to disturb.

Where to Go: County Donegal, where fairy forts outnumber sheep (and that’s saying something).

Where to Stay: Harvey’s Point – Located on Lough Eske, it’s so scenic you’ll forgive the fairies if they’re out there watching you. Enjoy the lakeside views, cozy beds, and just don’t mention the “f” word (faeries!) too loudly.

2. Iceland’s Huldufólk: How to Avoid Evicting an Elf

Legend: In Iceland, the huldufólk, or "hidden people," are said to dwell in rocks, caves, and hillsides, blending seamlessly with Iceland’s rugged landscape. Many Icelanders believe that disturbing these elf homes brings misfortune or a string of uncanny mishaps. Even today, construction projects, road crews, and homeowners tread carefully around certain boulders or rocky formations, wary of angering the huldufólk.

There have been numerous instances where planned roads were altered to avoid “elf stones.” For example, during construction of a major highway, workers faced repeated equipment breakdowns and accidents near a specific boulder believed to be an elf dwelling. After a local seer advised respecting the elves, the route was rerouted, and the issues ceased. Icelandic lore tells of the huldufólk sending misfortune or appearing in dreams to warn those who intrude upon their homes.

Though some view the huldufólk as superstition, many Icelanders consider them an essential part of their heritage, blending ancient folklore with the landscape. Visitors are often reminded to respect these mysterious spaces—after all, no one wants to find an invisible “tenant” sharing their home.

Where to Go: Hafnarfjörður, Iceland’s “elf capital,” where you can take an elf tour led by locals who are practically on a first-name basis with the huldufólk.

Where to Stay: Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina – With quirky Icelandic decor, you’ll feel right at home with the elven vibes. Just in case the elves want to join, leave out some milk and cookies.

3. Japan’s Aokigahara Forest: Is That a Ghost? Or Just a Branch?

Legend: Aokigahara, Japan’s infamous “Suicide Forest,” is so eerie it might make your hair stand on end—if it hasn’t already been blown back by the ghostly whispers. With roots in Japanese folklore, the spirits (yūrei) supposedly wander the woods, giving lost hikers more company than they bargained for. A Taiwanese tourist named Wei Shen ventured into Japan’s Aokigahara Forest, lured by its supernatural allure. Ignoring local warnings, he entered alone, determined to experience the mysteries firsthand. When he didn’t return, search parties combed the dense woods but found no trace of him.

In the years since, hikers report seeing a lone figure matching Wei's description, wandering silently through the forest or standing at its edge, staring blankly. Whenever someone tries to approach, he fades into the mist. Locals believe the forest claimed Wei, and he now roams Aokigahara as a restless spirit, forever lost in the "Sea of Trees."

Where to Go: A guided day tour is highly recommended. Bonus points if you don’t scream every time a leaf rustles.

Where to Stay: Fuji View Hotel – With killer (but not too killer) views of Mount Fuji, this hotel offers tranquil rooms to soothe your nerves after a spooky day in the forest. Plus, it’s well-lit!

4. Scotland’s Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye: Enchanted or Cold as Heck?

Legend: The Fairy Pools on Scotland's Isle of Skye are a series of crystal-clear, blue-green pools and cascading waterfalls set against dramatic mountain scenery, drawing visitors from all over. According to local lore, these waters are blessed by the fairies, said to possess healing powers or bring good fortune to those who visit. The name “Fairy Pools” itself hints at the mystical allure of the place, as many believe the fairies once danced along the water's edge or hid in the misty landscape.

Despite their enchanting beauty, these pools are notoriously cold year-round, often catching unsuspecting swimmers off guard with their icy temperatures. Brave souls who take a dip often report it as an “invigorating” experience—ideal for a quick, bracing plunge rather than a leisurely swim. For those who prefer to stay dry, the surrounding landscape offers enchanting views, with the pools nestled under the towering Cuillin mountains, making the Fairy Pools a magical, if chilly, Scottish treasure.

Where to Go: Take a short hike to these crystal-clear pools—don’t be surprised if the water’s beauty lures you in like a siren (who’s secretly just trying to prank you).

Where to Stay: Kinloch Lodge – A traditional Scottish retreat that pairs fine dining with tales of fae and folklore. Perfect for warming up with some whisky after your dip in the fairy pools, a.k.a. Mother Nature’s ice bath.

5. Norway’s Trolltunga: Avoid Hiking Boots, Troll-Sized

Legend: Trolltunga, or "Troll's Tongue," is a dramatic rock ledge jutting out over the beautiful fjords of Norway, suspended nearly 2,300 feet above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. According to local legend, this striking rock formation was once the tongue of a curious troll who turned to stone when caught by the sun—a fate common to trolls in Norwegian folklore, who roam only at night to avoid daylight. While there’s no real danger of meeting a troll, the sheer scale of the place certainly feels otherworldly.

The challenging 17-mile round-trip hike to Trolltunga takes visitors through Norway's rugged landscape, offering breathtaking views but requiring a full day’s trek and ample preparation. Even without troll-sized obstacles, the trail is physically demanding, with steep climbs and unpredictable weather. Reaching Trolltunga is an accomplishment, offering travelers an unforgettable view and a chance to stand at the edge of a legendary landscape that feels like something from a fairy tale.

Where to Go: A hike to Trolltunga is an all-day adventure that’s guaranteed to make you question every life choice after hour six. Just remember, trolls have all night to get there, so you’d better keep moving!

Where to Stay: Hotel Ullensvang – A scenic spot where you can rest those sore hiking muscles. Wake up to views of the Hardangerfjord and marvel at your survival skills—troll-free and triumphant.

6. Romania’s Hoia Forest: Have a Paranormal Picnic

Legend: Romania’s Hoia Forest, often called the “Bermuda Triangle of Transylvania,” is a place shrouded in eerie legends and paranormal mystery. Located near Cluj-Napoca, the forest has gained a reputation for unexplained phenomena: sightings of ghostly apparitions, strange lights flickering between trees, and even UFO encounters have all been reported here. Perhaps the most unsettling feature is the trees themselves—gnarled and twisted as if shaped by unseen hands, many bent in spirals that defy natural growth patterns.

At the heart of the forest lies the “Circle,” a strange, vegetation-free clearing where no plants seem to thrive. Some say it’s a landing spot for extraterrestrials; others believe it to be a portal or the forest’s paranormal epicenter. Brave souls who venture here often report a heavy feeling of being watched, with sudden drops in temperature or malfunctioning electronics adding to the forest's mystique. For thrill-seekers looking to test their nerve, a picnic here could be a chilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience—if they dare to stay.

Where to Go: Sign up for a guided night tour if you’re feeling brave, or just picnic in the daylight with a baguette and some garlic.

Where to Stay: Hotel Platinia – Located in Cluj-Napoca, it’s the ultimate comfort zone after a spine-tingling trip to Hoia. Offering luxurious rooms and excellent lighting, it’s the perfect place to calm down and remind yourself ghosts aren’t real…right?

So there you have it, a whirlwind tour of places where legends run wild, ghosts roam free, and trolls lurk in the shadows (well, at least in our imaginations). Whether you’re diving into a fairy pool, chatting with the hidden folk, or hiking to meet a troll, these folklore adventures are bound to make for a vacation you won’t forget. And hey, even if you do spot a faerie or two, at least you’ll have a great story to tell.

Ready to book your paranormal stay? Hit up these amazing accommodations and get started on your very own legend-worthy adventure!