I have to say it: The story of Gilneas is one of my favorites in all of WoW.
This fact has always raised some eyebrows.
It might be raising yours right now.
It’s hard to name the biggest reason why Gilneas is so great. Maybe it’s the realistic backstory? The human-druid citizens? The fact that Blizz hasn’t beat it silly with their retcon stick yet?
Regardless, I know I’m not alone in desperately hoping for a well-deserved Gilneas restoration in the near future.
Blizzard has sprinkled hints of it throughout the years, but it’s impossible to live on crumbs of hope. Whether they have real plans in place, or they’re just testing our interest is a difficult call to make.
But luckily if you’re a homesick worgen like me, there is one place where you can get your Gilneas fix.
Gilneas: A Kingdom Gone, But Never Forgotten
Most citizens escaped the fall of Gilneas by sea. Survivors split up and sailed to all corners of Azeroth to settle in all kinds of places.
Thanks to our allies, many of those settlements have transformed into thriving hubs of Gilnean culture. If you’ve traveled around Azeroth, you’ve probably been to one or two.
Some of my favorite settlements are at Farwatcher’s Glen in Stonetalon, and Talonbranch Glade in Felwood (but we’ll cover those in the future).
Places like those do remind me of home. But there are only two active settlements in the world that are truly a part of Gilneas. And fortunately, one is right in our backyard.
On the southern coast of the Blasted Lands, just south of the Tainted Forest lies the smallest surviving Gilnean settlement on Azeroth; Surwich.
This sleepy coastal village is easily recognized by its classic Gilnean-style buildings and a fishing dock built with real pine wood from the Silverpine forest.
It may not look like much at first glance. But don’t be fooled, because this place is home to a warm and prosperous community that is keeping the dream of Gilneas alive.
The village is currently led by Mayor Charlton Connisport. He’s a bit gruff when you first meet him, but he’s a true Gilnean at heart. And he knows what the people of Surwich have suffered through better than anyone.
Surwich, The Village That Almost Wasn’t
The Surwich Gilneans were once led by the druid Marl Wormthorn. He led these refugees to safety during the Cataclysm. Through his connection to nature, he protected them as they built the town.
Unfortunately, Marl’s abilities drew the attention of demons from the Burning Legion. Sadly, they corrupted him and forced him to destroy all his good work.
With Marl lost to madness and demons at their door, Mayor Charlton tasked adventurers with putting down his old friend Wormthorn to end the theat.
Surwich very nearly ceased to exist that day.
Marl’s dream of a new home was the very foundation of Surwich. After all, without him, they wouldn’t have survived in that savage place. His death was a devastating loss.
But the Gilneans are a stout and hardy people. They’re able to weather any storm and come out smiling on the other side. The villagers looked to each other for strength and support, and with time they moved on from the tragedies to find new hope.
It’s because of this and many more reasons that I visit Surwich often. Tourism is one of their best sources of income, and they do still live next door to some of the ugliest demons I’ve ever seen. So it’s a great place to test out new weapons.
A Gilneas Away From Home
When you arrive at the inn, you’ll be greeted with a warm fire and the familiar face of the innkeeper Donna Berrymore.
With the inn recently renovated, adventurers of all kinds are welcome to stop by for a hot meal and a good sleep in a real Glinean goose down bed.
The fish is always fresh, and the Spinefin halibut is particularly tasty. If it’s in season during your visit, I recommend ordering it.
After a good meal, wander around the small town for and take in the misty sea air. I love enjoying the peaceful view of the ocean and reminiscing about the white shores of Gilneas.
Until the great day we get to return, it’s comforting to know a place so much like home still exists.
The community of Surwich is a real testament to the spirit of the Gilnean people.
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Go with honor, friend!
