The REAL Odyssey: these locations are as epic as Christopher Nolan's blockbuster film

By STUART MACDONALD FOR THE SCOTTISH DAILY MAIL Published: 17:34, 21 July 2026 | Updated: 17:39, 21 July 2026 It's an area so stunning that Odyssey star Matt Damon heaped praise on it during filming. Now fans of the blockbuster hit will have the chance to visit the locations used in the film after an online map was launched to attract tourists. Council bosses are hoping director Christopher Nolan’s movie will spark a wave of visitors to the north-east of Scotland. The production has placed the region firmly in the international spotlight after featuring locations such as Findlater Castle and Sunnyside Beach in Aberdeenshire, as well as Culbin Forest and Culbin Sands in Moray. To celebrate the film’s release, activities have been planned across the area, including guided walks, competitions and special screenings. Moray Council leader John Cowe said: ‘We’re absolutely delighted to see Moray featuring in what is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated film releases of the year. Matt Damon and Zendaya star in The Odyssey, which was filmed in parts of Scotland Findlater Castle was one of the locations used Culbin Sands provided the perfect backdrop for the epic story The stunning setting of Culbin Forest was also used for filming ‘Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey will introduce millions of cinema-goers around the world to the spectacular landscapes that make Moray such a special place. ‘The stunning setting of Culbin Forest and Culbin Sands provided the perfect backdrop for this epic story, and we are proud that our coastline helped bring one of literature’s greatest adventures to life on the big screen.’ The Odyssey, adapted from Homer’s epic ancient Greek poem, is Nolan’s first since 2023’s Oppenheimer, which won the Academy Award for best picture. It follows Odysseus, the Greek king of Ithaca, on his journey home from the Trojan War to rescue his wife and son. Damon, who plays the title character, described the Moray coast as ‘beautiful’ after filming there last summer. Councillor Judy Whyte, Provost of Aberdeenshire Council, said: ‘Productions such as The Odyssey demonstrate why attracting film and television projects is so important for the prosperity of our towns and villages.’