You don’t have to be a Magizoologist like Newt Scamander to appreciate a fantastic beast. We’re pretty sure that audiences of non-wizarding folk up and down the country will be hot footing it to cinemas on 18 November – when J.K Rowling’s screenwriting debut is released – to get a glimpse of a Grindylow or a peek at a pixie. But if you want to see these creatures in their natural habitat, where do you go? We’ve picked out some properties within reach of 10 fantastic beasts* so you can follow in Scamander’s footsteps.

*Let’s be honest – the chances of you actually encountering any of these beasts are as slim as becoming best pals with the Loch Ness Monster, but we muggles can dream, can’t we?

#1 Looking for the Grindylow in the Lake District

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Put on a good pair of walking boots and explore the stunning valleys and hills of the Lake District. If you do happen to spot a Grindylow in the water en route, look but don’t touch! This elusive pale-green water demon has a bit of a bad temper. After a day spent hiking, warm up at this beautiful Victorian country house complete with wood burning stove and secluded fellside garden.

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#2 Discovering the Demiguise in Japan

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Fantastic beasts don’t get much cuter (or should we say, “kawaii”?) than this. Its large black eyes and silvery hair are something to behold, but as they can make themselves invisible, you’ll need a lot of luck seeing one. Something that does stand out from the crowd, however, is this woodland wonder of a rental in Isumi, featuring a koi pond and a two-person Jacuzzi.

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#3 Chasing the Chimaera in Greece

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This ferocious creature is just up Hagrid’s Diagon Alley. With the head of a lion, the body of a goat and the tail of a snake, just looking at it is frightening enough. Don’t worry though: these creatures are incredibly rare. See some other rare and mystifying sights in Santorini, such as the Byzantine Panagia Episkopi, or simply stroll through the village of Oia where you’ll find this stunning cottage with sea views.

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#4 On the look out for the Diricawl in Mauritius

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Us muggles will recognise the Diricawl as the now extinct Dodo. Happily, this plump, fluffy and flightless bird is thriving in the Wizarding world. It can vanish at will; a trait it shares with the phoenix, so don’t hold out too much hope of seeing it. The diversity of wildlife found on Mauritius will leave you enchanted, nevertheless, so why not book a stay in this spacious villa with a private pool and sea view? Your camera will thank you.

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#5 Erking and Bowtruckle-spotting in the Black Forest

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Ever had problems spotting a stick insect amongst the branches of a tree? Well, if you think that’s difficult, finding a shy Bowtruckle in the forest is even more so. And while the gnome-like Erking is a fascinating creature, it’s also a mischievous and highly dangerous one. On second thoughts, maybe it’s best to simply enjoy the beauty of the Black Forest or cycle through the picturesque trails in Forbach. This family-friendly apartment in Baden-Baden is in an ideal location to do just that.

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#6 Seeking Erumpent in Africa

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Forget the ‘big five’: the Erumpent is the beast to see in Africa. It’s often mistaken for a rhino, so be sure to read up on its traits in Newt Scamander’s book before heading out on safari. If you do want to see the more easily identifiable creatures in Africa, this impressive chalet is within easy access of the Kruger National park and scenic sights of the Blyde River Canyon.

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#7 Investigating the Augurey in Ireland

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Like many of the beasts on this list, the Augurey is an elusive creature, to say the least. This sad-looking bird nests in brambles and can tell if it’s going to rain. You might hear it moaning about the weather; a trait it shares with the average Brit! At least when you’re on holiday in Ireland, you’re sure to have fun whatever the weather. This expansive rental sleeps 10 and the views from the rooms and gardens of the Aillwee Mountain are breathtaking.

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#8 Searching for Billywigs in Australia

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It may seem like a long way to go to see such a small insect, but this sapphire-blue spinning top has a sting so special it can make its ‘victim’ levitate! If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, but your spirits as light as air, book a relaxing break at this gorgeous villa with private heated saltwater swimming pool and balcony overlooking the rainforest reserve.

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#9 Finding the Thunderbird in Arizona

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A close relation to the phoenix, this imposing bird is highly intelligent and can create storms as it flies. You might not be surprised (but possibly relieved) to hear that this creature is very rare. A trip to Arizona is sure to leave you spellbound and this peaceful villa in the heart of Scottsdale is just a short walk to some magnificent muggle museums, restaurants and shops.

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#10 Keeping your eyes peeled for the Niffler in England

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This beautiful British beast has a cuteness level to rival the Demiguise. Mole-like in appearance and affectionate in nature, they’re a favourite pet for treasure-hungry goblins who use them to burrow under the ground in search of gold. This romantic cottage in a bluebell wood in Nottinghamshire is perfect for lovers of British wildlife – wizarding or otherwise.

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